POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
FoodScore: 28/100 (Avoid).
A 0.25 cup serving provides 82% DV for calcium and 119% DV for Vitamin A.
The product contains 1460.71mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to its low score.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Use sparingly due to high sodium and saturated fat content.
Scores -5 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
32.11g
64% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1460.71mg
64% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (32.1g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (16.1g)-15
Sodium (1460.7mg)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 28
POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese scores 28 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is significantly impacted by its nutritional profile and processing level. While it receives bonuses for its substantial protein content of 32.1g per 100g and notable micronutrients like calcium (82% DV) and Vitamin A (119% DV), these are outweighed by several penalties. A major contributing factor to the low score is the high saturated fat content, at 16.1g per 100g, which incurs a -15 penalty. The product also contains a very high 1460.71mg of sodium per 100g, resulting in an -8 penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food leads to a -10 penalty, reflecting the presence of industrial ingredients and processing methods. The inclusion of powdered cellulose to prevent caking and potassium sorbate, as a preservative, are indicators of its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like a block of parmesan cheese, this shaved product often contains additional ingredients for convenience and shelf stability, which can impact its nutritional score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in polly-o, shaved parmesan cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Excellent Source of Calcium
POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 1071.43mg per 100g, which is 82% of the Daily Value. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. Incorporating calcium-rich foods into the diet is important for bone health throughout life, particularly for preventing osteoporosis.
Good Source of Vitamin A
This product delivers a significant amount of Vitamin A, with 119% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for vision, immune function, and cell growth. Dairy products like POLLY-O Parmesan can contribute to meeting daily Vitamin A requirements, supporting overall health.
High in Protein
POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese is high in protein, offering 32.11g per 100g. Protein is vital for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting satiety. Including protein-rich foods in meals can help with muscle maintenance and overall metabolic health.
POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Shaved parmesan cheese is typically used as a topping or an ingredient to add flavor to dishes. Common uses include sprinkling over pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables. Due to its strong flavor profile, a small portion is often sufficient to impart taste.
Use POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary ingredient to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Pair with a large, fresh salad to balance the meal with fiber and other micronutrients, helping to dilute the sodium per serving.
Consider using a smaller portion than suggested, such as half the serving size, to reduce the intake of saturated fat and sodium.
Combine with whole grains and lean protein sources to create a more nutritionally balanced meal.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content (1460.71mg per 100g) in POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese, especially those managing blood pressure or following a low-sodium diet. The product also contains 16.11g of saturated fat per 100g, which should be considered within daily dietary limits. The ingredient list includes powdered cellulose to prevent caking and potassium sorbate, as a preservative, which are common in ultra-processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, individuals with sensitivities to food additives may want to be aware. This product contains milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy allergies.
POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese has a FoodScore of 28/100, indicating it is not a top choice for regular consumption. While it provides calcium and protein, its high sodium and saturated fat content, along with its ultra-processed classification, contribute to a lower nutritional score. It's best consumed in moderation.
How does POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese compare to a generic block of parmesan?
Compared to a generic block of parmesan cheese, POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese often contains additional ingredients like powdered cellulose and potassium sorbate for convenience and shelf stability. While the core nutritional values for fat, protein, and sodium can be similar, the added ingredients contribute to its NOVA 4 ultra-processed classification, which a simple block of cheese would not have.
What is powdered cellulose in parmesan cheese?
Powdered cellulose is a common food additive derived from plant fibers, used in products like POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese to prevent caking and clumping. It helps keep the shredded or shaved cheese from sticking together, ensuring a consistent texture and easier use.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cheese?
The declared serving size is 0.25 cup. However, due to the high sodium and saturated fat content, a smaller portion, such as half of the suggested serving, may be more appropriate for those monitoring their intake of these nutrients. It is best used as a garnish.
Can I use POLLY-O Shaved Parmesan Cheese if I am lactose intolerant?
Parmesan cheese is naturally very low in lactose due to the aging process, which breaks down most of the lactose. Many individuals with lactose intolerance can tolerate aged cheeses like parmesan. However, individual sensitivities vary, so it's advisable to test a small amount first.