POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid). Its high sodium content and ultra-processed classification are the primary factors contributing to this score.
FoodScore: 28/100 (Avoid) due to high sodium and processing.
Contains 32.1g of protein per 100g, a notable amount for dairy.
Major concern is 1539.3mg sodium per 100g, exceeding daily recommendations.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), unlike generic parmesan cheese.
Use in small portions to manage sodium intake in meals.
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
1539.29mg
67% 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 (1539.3mg)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 28
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese scores 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high sodium content, which is 1539.3mg per 100g, incurring a significant penalty. The product's classification as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed) also contributes a substantial penalty, indicating a food that has undergone extensive industrial processing and contains additives not typically found in home cooking. While it provides a considerable 32.1g of protein per 100g and is a good source of calcium (82% DV) and Vitamin A (119% DV), these bonuses are outweighed by the penalties. The saturated fat content at 16.1g per 100g also negatively impacts the score. Unlike generic parmesan cheese, which is typically a minimally processed food, the inclusion of ingredients like cellulose powder to prevent caking and potassium sorbate to protect flavor moves this specific POLLY-O product into the ultra-processed category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in polly-o, shredded parmesan cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese provides 32.1g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and satiety. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. Incorporating this cheese in small amounts can help increase the protein content of meals, supporting overall dietary needs.
Good Source of Calcium
This product is a good source of calcium, offering 1071.43mg per 100g, which is 82% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, playing a vital role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. Including POLLY-O parmesan in your diet can help meet daily calcium requirements, especially for individuals who may not consume enough dairy or other calcium-rich foods.
Contains Vitamin A
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese delivers 119% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is important for vision, immune function, and skin health. While this product provides a notable amount, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile and consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet to benefit from its micronutrient contributions.
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid). Its high sodium content and ultra-processed classification are the primary factors contributing to this score.
How to eat it
Shredded parmesan cheese is commonly used as a topping or ingredient in various dishes, adding a savory flavor. Typical portions are small, often a tablespoon or two, sprinkled over pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables. It's important to be mindful of portion sizes due to its concentrated flavor and nutrient profile.
Use POLLY-O shredded parmesan as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary ingredient to manage sodium intake.
Pair with vegetable-rich dishes like salads or roasted broccoli to balance the meal's nutritional density.
Consider using a smaller amount than suggested in recipes and taste-testing before adding more to control sodium.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese relates to its high sodium content, which is a significant concern for individuals monitoring blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The inclusion of potassium sorbate to protect flavor is a common preservative, generally recognized as safe, but some individuals may prefer to limit foods with such additives. Additionally, the product contains cellulose powder to prevent caking, a common anti-caking agent derived from plant fibers. While not typically a health concern, its presence contributes to the product's NOVA 4 ultra-processed classification. As a dairy product, it contains milk and is not suitable for individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance.
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese receives a FoodScore of 28/100, indicating it is not a top choice for regular consumption. While it offers protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food are significant nutritional drawbacks.
How does POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese compare to other parmesan brands?
Compared to a generic block of parmesan cheese, POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed) due to additives like cellulose powder and potassium sorbate. Many generic or store-brand shredded parmesans, such as those from Whole Foods 365 or Trader Joe's, may also contain similar anti-caking agents, but it's always best to check the ingredient list for specific differences in processing and additives.
What is cellulose powder in parmesan cheese?
Cellulose powder is a common food additive used in shredded cheeses, including POLLY-O, to prevent the cheese from caking together. It is derived from plant fibers and is generally considered safe for consumption, though its presence contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese?
A typical serving size is 0.25 cup, but due to its high sodium content, it's recommended to use smaller portions, such as 1-2 tablespoons. This allows you to enjoy the flavor while managing your sodium intake effectively.
Does POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese contain lactose?
As a cheese made from pasteurized part-skim milk, POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan Cheese does contain lactose. However, parmesan cheese is typically aged, which naturally reduces its lactose content, making it better tolerated by some individuals with lactose sensitivity compared to fresh dairy products.