OSCAR MAYER UNCURED CHEESE DOGS, CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 40/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its **high sodium content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
This product scores 40/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 1000mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily limits.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
Compared to generic dairy, this product offers less protein and significantly more sodium.
Portion control is important due to the high fat and sodium content.
Scores +7 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
13.29g
27% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1000mg
43% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (13.3g)+9
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (6.7g)-7
Sodium (1000mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 40
OSCAR MAYER UNCURED CHEESE DOGS, CHEESE earned a FoodScore of 40 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factors influencing this score are its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a -10 penalty, and its high sodium content of 1000mg per 100g, resulting in a -5 penalty. The product also receives a -7 penalty for its 6.67g of saturated fat per 100g and an additional -3 penalty for being a concentrated ultra-processed fat source. On the positive side, it gains +9 for its 13.29g of protein and +6 for micronutrients, specifically 14% DV for calcium, 25% DV for Vitamin A, and 12% DV for Vitamin C. The ingredient list includes mechanically separated turkey and mechanically separated chicken, which are common in processed meat products. While the product contains cheese, the overall formulation leads to a less favorable nutritional outcome compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically has lower sodium and saturated fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in oscar mayer uncured cheese dogs, cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This product provides 13.29g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for various bodily functions. Including protein in meals can help with satiety. For individuals looking to meet protein targets, this product can be a component of a meal, though other sources may offer a more balanced nutrient profile.
Contains Calcium and Vitamin A
OSCAR MAYER UNCURED CHEESE DOGS, CHEESE offers 14% DV of calcium and 25% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. Calcium is vital for bone health and nerve function, while Vitamin A supports vision and immune function. While these micronutrients are present, consumers should consider the overall nutritional context of the product, including its high sodium and fat content, when relying on it for these vitamins and minerals.
Convenient Meal Component
For those seeking a quick and easy meal component, this product offers convenience. Its ready-to-heat format can be useful for busy individuals or families. However, it is important to balance this convenience with other nutrient-dense foods to ensure a well-rounded dietary intake. The pasteurized prepared cheddar cheese product contributes to the flavor and some of the micronutrient content.
OSCAR MAYER UNCURED CHEESE DOGS, CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 40/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
OSCAR MAYER UNCURED CHEESE DOGS are typically consumed as part of a casual meal, often grilled or pan-fried, and served in a bun. They are a common choice for quick lunches or dinners, particularly for children. A typical serving is one link.
Pair with a large serving of vegetables like a side salad or steamed broccoli to add fiber and micronutrients.
Consider serving with a whole-wheat bun instead of a white bun to increase dietary fiber intake.
Due to the high sodium content, balance your meal with foods naturally low in sodium, such as fresh fruits or unsalted vegetables.
Limit consumption to occasional meals rather than a daily staple to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains pasteurized prepared cheddar cheese product, which includes milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with a dairy allergy. The high sodium content (1000mg per 100g) is a significant consideration, especially for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The presence of mechanically separated turkey and chicken indicates a highly processed meat product. While sorbic acid is used as a preservative, it is generally recognized as safe. Individuals sensitive to food additives may wish to review the full ingredient list, which also includes cultured dextrose and corn syrup.
Is OSCAR MAYER UNCURED CHEESE DOGS, CHEESE healthy?
This product has a FoodScore of 40/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile. While it provides protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, it is high in sodium (1000mg per 100g) and saturated fat (6.67g per 100g). It is also classified as an ultra-processed food. Therefore, it is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does OSCAR MAYER UNCURED CHEESE DOGS, CHEESE compare to other hot dog brands?
Compared to many generic hot dogs or brands like Ball Park Franks, OSCAR MAYER UNCURED CHEESE DOGS, CHEESE may have similar or slightly different nutritional profiles depending on the specific product. This SKU's high sodium and saturated fat are common in the hot dog category. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons, as formulations vary widely.
What does 'uncured' mean in this product?
The term 'uncured' on the OSCAR MAYER label means that synthetic nitrates or nitrites were not added. Instead, the product uses natural sources of nitrates, such as cultured celery juice, which are converted to nitrites during processing. Nutritionally, this distinction often has minimal impact on the overall health profile compared to conventionally cured products.
What is a reasonable portion size for OSCAR MAYER UNCURED CHEESE DOGS, CHEESE?
The declared serving size is 1 link. Given the high sodium and saturated fat content, sticking to this portion size is advisable. Consuming multiple links would significantly increase your intake of these nutrients, making it harder to stay within daily recommended limits.
Can I include this product in a diet for weight management?
While this product provides protein, its calorie density (266.67 calories per 100g) and fat content mean that portion control is crucial for weight management. Integrating it into a calorie-controlled diet would require balancing it with lower-calorie, nutrient-dense foods throughout the day to avoid exceeding calorie targets.