POLLY-O MOZZARELLA LOW-MOISTURE PART-SKIM NATURAL STRING CHEESE scores 53/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its notable protein content and calcium, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
This POLLY-O string cheese scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore.
A serving provides 25g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
It contains 642.86mg of sodium per 100g, which is a moderate amount.
This product is NOVA class 2, indicating it is minimally processed.
It offers 41% DV of calcium per 100g, supporting bone health.
Scores +20 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
25g
50% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
642.86mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (25g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (10.7g)-15
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Why it scores 53
POLLY-O MOZZARELLA LOW-MOISTURE PART-SKIM NATURAL STRING CHEESE achieves a FoodScore of 53/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and components that warrant moderation. The product receives a significant bonus for its high protein content, providing 25g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety and muscle maintenance. Additionally, it earns points for its calcium content, delivering 41% of the Daily Value per 100g. As a NOVA class 2 food, it is considered minimally processed, which also contributes positively to its score. However, the score is tempered by penalties related to its fat profile and sodium. It contains 10.71g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a factor to consider in a balanced diet. The sodium content, at 642.86mg per 100g, also incurs a penalty. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this POLLY-O string cheese offers a comparable nutritional profile, with its part-skim milk base contributing to its moderate fat content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in polly-o mozzarella low-moisture part-skim natural string cheese, mozzarella actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
This string cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 535.71mg (41% DV) per 100g. Calcium is a crucial mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods like POLLY-O string cheese can help support bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, especially when combined with adequate vitamin D intake. Incorporating dairy products into the diet is a practical way to meet daily calcium requirements.
Contributes to Satiety and Muscle Maintenance
With 25g of protein per 100g, this product can be a valuable contributor to daily protein intake. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, including muscle, and plays a role in numerous bodily functions. Foods rich in protein also tend to promote feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for managing appetite. Including a source of protein like this string cheese can help support satiety between meals.
Minimally Processed Dairy Option
POLLY-O MOZZARELLA LOW-MOISTURE PART-SKIM NATURAL STRING CHEESE is classified as NOVA class 2, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. Its ingredient list is relatively short, primarily consisting of pasteurized part-skim milk, vinegar, salt, and enzymes. This indicates a less complex processing level compared to many other packaged snacks. Choosing minimally processed foods can be a strategy for a diet focused on whole and less altered ingredients.
POLLY-O MOZZARELLA LOW-MOISTURE PART-SKIM NATURAL STRING CHEESE scores 53/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its notable protein content and calcium, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
How to eat it
String cheese is commonly consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack, often by children and adults alike. Its individual packaging makes it portable and portion-controlled, suitable for lunchboxes or quick bites. It can also be incorporated into meals.
Pair with fresh fruit or vegetables like apple slices or carrot sticks for added fiber and vitamins, creating a more balanced snack.
Use as a protein source in salads by tearing or dicing the cheese, adding texture and satiety without excessive preparation.
Consider one stick as a single serving to manage intake, especially given its moderate saturated fat and sodium content.
Melted on whole-grain crackers or a small piece of whole-wheat toast, it can be a quick and satisfying mini-meal.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk, which is a common allergen. Individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy should avoid this product. The sodium content, at 642.86mg per 100g, is a factor to consider for those monitoring their sodium intake, such as individuals with hypertension. While moderate, regular consumption of multiple servings could contribute significantly to daily sodium limits. The ingredient list is straightforward, with vinegar and enzymes (non-animal) being standard components in cheese making, and no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives are listed. Overall, for individuals without milk allergies and who are mindful of sodium, this product presents no unusual cautions.
Is POLLY-O MOZZARELLA LOW-MOISTURE PART-SKIM NATURAL STRING CHEESE healthy?
This POLLY-O string cheese scores 53/100, indicating it's a decent choice. It provides significant protein and calcium, which are beneficial for bone health and satiety. However, it also contains moderate amounts of saturated fat and sodium, so it's best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet that considers overall intake of these nutrients.
How does POLLY-O string cheese compare to other cheese snacks?
Compared to some full-fat cheese options, POLLY-O's part-skim formulation means it has a lower saturated fat content. When compared to highly processed cheese products like Velveeta, it generally has a simpler ingredient list and is less processed (NOVA 2). Its nutritional profile is comparable to other brands of part-skim mozzarella string cheese.
What does 'part-skim milk' mean in the ingredients?
'Part-skim milk' means that some of the fat has been removed from the milk before it was used to make the cheese. This results in a product with a lower total fat and saturated fat content compared to cheese made with whole milk. It's a common practice to reduce the fat profile of dairy products.
How many sticks of POLLY-O string cheese can I eat in a day?
The serving size is 1 stick. While it offers good protein and calcium, consider its saturated fat and sodium content. For most adults, one or two sticks can fit into a balanced daily intake, especially if you are mindful of other sources of saturated fat and sodium throughout the day. Listen to your body's hunger cues.
Is this string cheese suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies 'enzymes (non-animal),' which means the rennet used in the cheese-making process is not derived from animal sources. This makes POLLY-O MOZZARELLA LOW-MOISTURE PART-SKIM NATURAL STRING CHEESE suitable for most vegetarians.