POLLY-O Romano Cheese achieves a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of nutritional strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, it receives a significant bonus for its high protein content, providing 40g per 100g, which is substantial. It also gains points for its impressive calcium contribution, offering 1200mg (92% DV) per 100g. The product's classification as NOVA class 2, a processed culinary ingredient, also contributes positively to its score, indicating it is less processed than many other food items. However, these benefits are offset by penalties. The primary deductions come from its high saturated fat content of 20g per 100g, which is a significant amount. Additionally, the product is high in sodium, with 1400mg per 100g, leading to another penalty. The ingredient list, featuring Pasteurized Part-Skim Cow's Milk, Salt, Cheese Culture, and Enzymes, is relatively simple and does not include added sugars or artificial ingredients that would incur further penalties. Compared to generic dairy equivalents, this POLLY-O Romano Cheese offers a concentrated source of protein and calcium but also a higher concentration of saturated fat and sodium.
What the nutrients in polly-o, romano cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
POLLY-O Romano Cheese is an excellent source of protein, providing 40g per 100g. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. Including adequate protein in your diet can help with satiety and muscle maintenance, especially important for active individuals or those managing their weight. This concentration of protein makes it a valuable addition to meals, even in smaller serving sizes.
This Romano cheese is rich in calcium, supplying 1200mg, or 92% of the Daily Value, per 100g. Calcium is a critical mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it also plays a role in nerve transmission, muscle function, and blood clotting. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods like POLLY-O Romano Cheese can contribute to long-term bone health and help prevent conditions like osteoporosis, particularly when combined with Vitamin D.
Classified as a NOVA class 2 food, POLLY-O Romano Cheese is considered a processed culinary ingredient. This means it has undergone minimal processing to create a usable food component, primarily involving fermentation and aging. Foods in this category are generally preferred over ultra-processed options as they retain more of their original nutritional integrity and typically contain fewer additives, making them a more wholesome choice within the dairy category.
Romano cheese is a hard, salty cheese commonly used as a finishing ingredient to add flavor to dishes. It is typically grated over pasta, salads, soups, or roasted vegetables. Due to its intense flavor and high sodium content, small portions are usually sufficient to enhance a meal.
POLLY-O Romano Cheese contains Pasteurized Part-Skim Cow's Milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. The most significant nutritional caution is its high sodium content, at 1400mg per 100g. Those monitoring their sodium intake, such as individuals with high blood pressure or certain kidney conditions, should consume this product in very small portions to avoid exceeding daily recommended limits. While it is a processed culinary ingredient, it does not contain artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives that often raise concerns in other processed foods.