PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE scores 18/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its ultra-processed nature and high saturated fat content.
This product received a FoodScore of 18/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
It contains 0g of protein and 0g of fiber per 100g serving.
A 100g serving contributes 17.89g of saturated fat and 907.14mg of sodium.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs significantly from traditional dairy cheese.
Consider this product for occasional use rather than a dietary staple.
Scores -15 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
907.14mg
39% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (907.1mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 18
PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE receives a FoodScore of 18 out of 100, indicating it is an item to avoid for regular consumption. This score is largely influenced by several factors. A significant penalty is applied due to its high saturated fat content, which stands at 17.89g per 100g. This amount contributes substantially to daily intake limits. The product also incurs a penalty for its sodium content, at 907.14mg per 100g, which is a notable amount for a single serving. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food signifies it is ultra-processed, meaning it contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens, such as modified food starch and natural flavor, and has undergone extensive industrial processing. This ultra-processed nature, combined with its concentrated fat content, further reduces its score. In contrast to a generic dairy cheese, which often provides protein and calcium, this product offers 0g of protein, 0g of fiber, and only 3% DV for calcium per 100g, lacking many of the beneficial nutrients found in its traditional counterparts.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in parmela creamery aged nutcheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Suitable for Dairy-Free Diets
For individuals following a dairy-free diet due to allergies, intolerances, or lifestyle choices, PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE offers an alternative to traditional cheese. Made from nutmilk (water, cashews) and coconut oil, it provides a cheese-like experience without any dairy components. This can be beneficial for those seeking to avoid lactose or milk proteins while still enjoying the texture and flavor profile of aged cheese in their meals.
Zero Grams of Added Sugar
This product contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, which can be a positive aspect for individuals monitoring their sugar intake. Many processed foods can contain hidden sugars, but PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE avoids this. This formulation choice aligns with dietary recommendations to limit added sugars, making it a suitable option for those looking for savory, sugar-free alternatives in their snacks or meals.
Plant-Based Option
As a plant-based product, PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE aligns with vegetarian and vegan dietary patterns. It uses cashews as its base, along with coconut oil and starches, to create its texture and flavor. This makes it a viable choice for individuals who wish to reduce their consumption of animal products, contributing to a more varied and plant-forward eating approach.
PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE scores 18/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its ultra-processed nature and high saturated fat content.
How to eat it
PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE is typically used as a topping or an ingredient in recipes where a cheese-like flavor and texture are desired. Common portions are small, often grated over dishes or included in sandwiches. Be mindful of its sodium and saturated fat content when incorporating it into your diet.
Use small portions when grating over pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain crackers or fresh vegetables to add nutritional balance to a snack.
Consider it as an occasional flavor enhancer rather than a primary source of nutrients in your daily meals.
Incorporate into recipes where its distinct flavor can shine, such as plant-based pesto or a dairy-free gratin.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with tree nut allergies, specifically to cashews, should avoid PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE as nutmilk (water, cashews) is its primary ingredient. The product also contains modified food starch and natural flavor, which are common ingredients in ultra-processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit consumption of foods with these ingredients due to their highly processed nature. Its high sodium content (907.14mg per 100g) means those monitoring blood pressure should consume it sparingly. There are no declared allergens beyond tree nuts.
PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE received a FoodScore of 18/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. It is high in saturated fat and sodium and provides minimal protein or fiber. While it is dairy-free and contains no added sugar, its overall nutritional profile suggests it is not a health-promoting food for regular consumption.
How does PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE compare to traditional dairy cheese?
Compared to many traditional dairy cheeses, PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE has significantly less protein (0g vs. typically 20-25g per 100g for cheddar) and calcium (3% DV vs. often 70%+ DV). It is also classified as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, unlike most traditional cheeses. For example, a block of Tillamook Cheddar would offer substantial protein and calcium, which this product does not.
What is 'natural flavor' in this product?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list, such as in PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE, refers to a substance extracted from a natural source (like a spice, fruit, or vegetable) whose primary function is flavoring rather than nutrition. It is a highly processed ingredient that can contain numerous components and is often used to enhance palatability in ultra-processed foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE?
The declared serving size is 1 ounce (approximately 28g). Given its high saturated fat (17.89g per 100g) and sodium (907.14mg per 100g) content, adhering to this small portion size is advisable. Using it sparingly, such as a sprinkle over a dish, helps manage overall intake of these nutrients.
Can PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE be melted?
Yes, PARMELA CREAMERY AGED NUTCHEESE is formulated to melt, similar to traditional cheese, due to ingredients like coconut oil and modified food starch. This makes it suitable for applications where a melted cheese texture is desired, such as on pizzas, in grilled sandwiches, or in sauces. Its melting properties are a key functional aspect of the product.