POLLY-O, SHREDDED PARMESAN, ROMANO, AND ASIAGO CHEESES
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago Cheeses receives a FoodScore of 29/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 29/100 (Avoid).
Contains 1321.43mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Provides 32.11g of protein per 100g, a notable strength.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), indicating multiple processing steps and additives.
Use in small portions to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Scores -4 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
1321.43mg
57% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (32.1g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (1321.4mg)-7
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 29
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago Cheeses earns a FoodScore of 29 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is heavily influenced by several factors. While it receives bonuses for its substantial protein content of 32.1g per 100g and notable micronutrients like 69% DV for calcium and 119% DV for Vitamin A, these are offset by significant penalties. The product's high saturated fat content at 17.9g per 100g contributes a -15 penalty. More critically, the sodium level of 1321.43mg per 100g incurs a -7 penalty, making it a food to consume sparingly for those monitoring sodium intake. Furthermore, the inclusion of ingredients like cellulose powder added to prevent caking and potassium sorbate added to protect flavor classifies this product as NOVA 4, or ultra-processed, which carries a -10 penalty. This processing also leads to a -3 penalty for concentrated ultra-processed fat. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this product's processing and additive profile are key differentiators, contributing to its lower FoodScore.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in polly-o, shredded parmesan, romano, and asiago cheeses actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago Cheeses provides a significant amount of protein, with 32.11g per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair, immune function, and satiety. Incorporating this cheese in small, controlled portions can contribute to your daily protein goals, especially when paired with other protein sources in a meal.
Good Source of Calcium
This cheese blend is a good source of calcium, offering 892.86mg per 100g, which is 69% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, nerve function, and blood clotting. While the serving size is small, even a quarter-cup portion can contribute to your daily calcium intake, supporting overall skeletal health.
Rich in Vitamin A
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago Cheeses is rich in Vitamin A, providing 119% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth. This makes the cheese a notable contributor to your intake of this fat-soluble vitamin, especially when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago Cheeses receives a FoodScore of 29/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Shredded cheese blends like POLLY-O are commonly used as a topping or ingredient in various dishes, often in small quantities. They are typically added to pasta, salads, soups, or baked casseroles. The convenience of pre-shredded cheese makes it a popular choice for quick meal preparation.
Use this cheese as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary ingredient, due to its high sodium content.
Pair with vegetable-rich dishes like salads or roasted vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Measure your portions carefully; a 0.25 cup serving is a good starting point to manage sodium and saturated fat.
Consider using it in dishes where its strong flavor profile can be maximized with a smaller amount.
Things to keep in mind
This POLLY-O cheese blend contains potassium sorbate added to protect flavor, a common preservative. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience sensitivities to preservatives. The product also includes cellulose powder added to prevent caking, which is a plant-based fiber often used in shredded cheeses to improve texture and prevent clumping. Individuals with specific dietary sensitivities to these additives should be aware. As a dairy product, it contains milk, which is a common allergen. Those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies should avoid this product. Due to its high sodium content, individuals monitoring blood pressure or those on a sodium-restricted diet should consume this product in very limited quantities.
Is POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago Cheeses healthy?
POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago Cheeses has a FoodScore of 29/100 (Avoid). While it offers protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, its high sodium and saturated fat content, along with its ultra-processed classification, mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does POLLY-O compare to other shredded cheese brands?
Compared to a generic shredded cheese, POLLY-O's nutritional profile is similar in terms of macronutrients and sodium. Many shredded cheese brands, such as Kraft, also use cellulose powder and preservatives. Always check the specific nutrition facts and ingredient list of any brand for direct comparison, as formulations can vary.
What is cellulose powder and why is it in this cheese?
Cellulose powder is a plant-derived fiber added to shredded cheeses, including this POLLY-O product, to prevent the cheese from clumping together. It helps maintain the product's texture and shelf life by absorbing moisture and acting as an anti-caking agent. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cheese?
The declared serving size is 0.25 cup. Given the high sodium content (1321.43mg per 100g), it's advisable to stick to this small portion or even less, especially if you are managing your sodium intake. Using it as a garnish rather than a main ingredient can help control portion sizes.
Can this cheese be used in cooking?
Yes, POLLY-O Shredded Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago Cheeses is suitable for cooking. Its blend of cheeses offers a robust flavor profile that can enhance pasta dishes, casseroles, and baked goods. However, be mindful of the added sodium it contributes to your overall recipe.