PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE, ORIGINAL scores 18/100 (Avoid) due to its high saturated fat content and ultra-processed nature. This product offers minimal protein or micronutrients.
FoodScore: 18/100 (Avoid).
Contains 17.89g saturated fat per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Offers negligible protein (0g) and fiber (0g) per 100g.
A 1-ounce serving provides 907.14mg sodium per 100g, which is high.
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 NACHO NUTCHEESE, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 18/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its nutritional profile, which includes significant penalties for its high saturated fat content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. With 17.89g of saturated fat per 100g, this product incurs a substantial penalty of 15 points. Additionally, its high sodium content at 907.14mg per 100g contributes a 4-point penalty. The presence of ingredients like modified food starch and natural flavor, alongside its overall formulation, categorizes it as NOVA 4, resulting in a 10-point penalty for being ultra-processed. A further 3-point penalty is applied for its concentrated ultra-processed fat content. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often provides protein and calcium, this product offers 0g protein and only 3% DV for calcium, indicating a less favorable nutrient density.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in parmela creamery nacho nutcheese, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Suitable for Dairy-Free Diets
This product is made from nutmilk (cashews) and contains no dairy ingredients, making it a suitable option for individuals avoiding dairy due to allergies, intolerances, or dietary preferences. For those seeking a cheese-like flavor and texture without dairy, PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE provides an alternative. It can help individuals adhere to a plant-based or dairy-free eating pattern while still enjoying familiar food experiences.
Source of Specific Flavors
The inclusion of ingredients like nutritional yeast and annatto contributes to a savory, cheesy flavor profile, which can be appealing in dairy-free cooking. For individuals transitioning to a plant-based diet, products that mimic traditional flavors can aid in dietary adherence. This specific flavor profile can enhance dishes where a nacho cheese taste is desired, without relying on animal products.
Convenient Plant-Based Option
As a ready-to-eat product, PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE offers convenience for those following a plant-based diet. It requires no preparation and can be used directly from the package. This can be particularly useful for quick meals or snacks, providing a dairy-free alternative when time is limited. Its format allows for easy incorporation into various recipes.
PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE, ORIGINAL scores 18/100 (Avoid) due to its high saturated fat content and ultra-processed nature. This product offers minimal protein or micronutrients.
How to eat it
This product is typically used as a dip, spread, or topping, similar to traditional nacho cheese sauces. A common portion size is 1 ounce, which is a small amount. Due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, it is best used sparingly.
Pair with fresh vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber slices to add fiber and micronutrients to your snack.
Use as a small topping for homemade tacos or burritos, rather than a primary dip, to control portion sizes.
Combine a small amount with a base of mashed avocado to dilute the sodium and add healthy fats.
Consider using it as an occasional condiment rather than a daily staple due to its nutritional profile.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with tree nut allergies, specifically to cashews, should avoid this product as nutmilk is its primary ingredient. The product contains modified food starch, which may be a concern for some individuals sensitive to highly processed ingredients, though it is generally recognized as safe. While the product is dairy-free, it is an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), meaning it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen. Consumers aiming for a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods should be mindful of its inclusion.
Is PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE, ORIGINAL healthy?
PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE, ORIGINAL scores 18/100, indicating it is not a nutritionally dense choice. It is high in saturated fat (17.89g/100g) and sodium (907.14mg/100g) and provides no protein or fiber. While it is dairy-free, its ultra-processed nature and nutrient profile suggest it should be consumed infrequently.
How does PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE compare to traditional dairy nacho cheese?
Compared to many traditional dairy nacho cheese products, PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE offers a dairy-free alternative. However, its nutritional profile is still high in saturated fat and sodium. For instance, a generic dairy nacho cheese might also be high in these nutrients, but could offer some calcium, which this product lacks significantly (3% DV).
What is 'nutritional yeast' and why is it in this product?
Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast product often used in vegan cooking for its savory, cheesy flavor. In PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE, it contributes to the umami taste and helps achieve a cheese-like profile without dairy. It is also sometimes fortified with B vitamins, though this product does not list significant amounts.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 1 ounce. Given its high saturated fat and sodium content, adhering to this small portion size is advisable. Using it as a flavor enhancer rather than a main component of a meal can help manage intake of these nutrients.
Can I use this product if I have a cashew allergy?
No, if you have a cashew allergy, you should avoid PARMELA CREAMERY NACHO NUTCHEESE, ORIGINAL. The first ingredient listed is 'NUTMILK (WATER, CASHEWS),' indicating that cashews are a primary component of the product. Consuming it could trigger an allergic reaction.