SARGENTO COLBY-JACK NATURAL CHEESE, COCONUT CLUSTERS WITH SEED MEDLEY & DRIED CRANBERRIES SNACKS scores 20/100 (Avoid). The primary factor contributing to this low score is the **high amount of added sugar**.
This SARGENTO snack has a FoodScore of 20/100, indicating it is best avoided regularly.
It provides 15.41g of protein per 100g, a notable positive for satiety.
The product contains 17.9g of added sugar per 100g, a significant penalty.
Compared to generic cheese, this product is more processed (NOVA 3) and higher in added sugar.
Consider this as an occasional snack rather than a daily dietary staple.
Scores -13 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
2.59g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
15.41g
31% of Daily Value
Added sugar
17.9g
36% of Daily Value
Sodium
461.54mg
20% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.6g)+2
Protein (15.4g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (17.9g)-23
Saturated fat (18g)-15
Sodium (461.5mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 20
SARGENTO COLBY-JACK NATURAL CHEESE, COCONUT CLUSTERS WITH SEED MEDLEY & DRIED CRANBERRIES SNACKS receives a FoodScore of 20 out of 100, primarily due to its nutritional profile that includes significant penalties. While it gains points for its protein content (15.41g per 100g) and calcium (30% DV), these are outweighed by several negative factors. A major detractor is the 17.9g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty. The product also contains 18g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to a significant penalty. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA class 3 indicates it is a processed food, leading to an additional penalty. The ingredient list includes dried cranberries (cranberries, sugar, sunflower oil) and coconut clusters with seeds, both contributing to the added sugar content. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this SARGENTO product is considerably higher in added sugar and saturated fat, making it a less optimal choice for regular consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sargento colby-jack natural cheese, coconut clusters with seed medley & dried cranberries snacks, seed medley & dried cranberries actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This SARGENTO snack provides 15.41g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair, enzyme production, and hormone regulation. Including protein in snacks can help manage hunger between meals and support overall dietary protein intake, especially for individuals with higher protein needs.
Good Source of Calcium
With 384.62mg of calcium per 100g, this product contributes 30% of the Daily Value for calcium. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting nerve function and muscle contraction. Incorporating calcium-rich foods into the diet is important for bone health throughout life, and this snack can be a convenient way to boost calcium intake.
Contains Healthy Fats from Seeds
The coconut clusters with seeds in this snack include pumpkin seeds, quinoa, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, and flax seeds. These seeds provide a variety of fats, including some polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are considered beneficial for heart health. While the overall fat content is high due to saturated fat, the inclusion of these seeds offers some diversity in fat sources.
SARGENTO COLBY-JACK NATURAL CHEESE, COCONUT CLUSTERS WITH SEED MEDLEY & DRIED CRANBERRIES SNACKS scores 20/100 (Avoid). The primary factor contributing to this low score is the high amount of added sugar.
How to eat it
This SARGENTO snack is typically consumed as a convenient, on-the-go option between meals or as part of a packed lunch. The individual tray format makes it easy to portion, but it's important to be mindful of the overall nutritional contribution of the entire tray.
To balance the snack, pair it with a serving of fresh fruit or vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Consider this snack for occasions when a quick source of protein and calcium is needed, rather than a daily staple.
Be aware of the added sugar content and adjust other sugar sources in your diet accordingly.
If seeking a similar flavor profile with less added sugar, try pairing plain cheese with a small handful of unsweetened nuts and a few fresh berries.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk, which is a common allergen. Individuals with dairy allergies should avoid this snack. The ingredient list also includes sugar in both the coconut clusters and dried cranberries, contributing to the high added sugar content. Those managing blood sugar levels, such as individuals with diabetes, should be mindful of this. The presence of natamycin, a natural mold inhibitor, is generally recognized as safe, but some individuals may prefer to limit foods with preservatives. The product is also classified as processed (NOVA 3), indicating it has undergone significant manufacturing steps and contains multiple ingredients beyond basic food items.
Is SARGENTO COLBY-JACK NATURAL CHEESE, COCONUT CLUSTERS WITH SEED MEDLEY & DRIED CRANBERRIES SNACKS healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 20/100, this SARGENTO snack is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. While it offers protein and calcium, it is high in added sugar and saturated fat, which are nutrients the Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting. Its processed nature also contributes to its lower score.
How does this SARGENTO snack compare to a generic cheese snack?
Compared to a generic block of Colby-Jack cheese, this SARGENTO snack is significantly higher in added sugar due to the coconut clusters and dried cranberries. A plain cheese snack would typically have no added sugar and a lower overall fat content per 100g, making it a more nutrient-dense option for daily intake.
What is 'brown rice syrup' in the ingredient list?
Brown rice syrup is a sweetener derived from brown rice. In this product, it contributes to the overall added sugar content. While it may sound more natural than some other sugars, it is still a form of added sugar that impacts the nutritional profile negatively when consumed in large amounts.
What is a reasonable portion size for this snack?
The serving size is one tray, which is 100g. Given its high calorie, added sugar, and saturated fat content, consuming one tray occasionally would be a reasonable approach. For more frequent snacking, consider alternatives with lower added sugar and saturated fat.
Are there other similar snacks from SARGENTO that are better choices?
SARGENTO offers a range of cheese products. Many of their plain cheese snacks, such as their string cheese or cheese sticks, would generally be better choices as they typically contain no added sugar and are less processed. For example, a SARGENTO Balanced Breaks snack with just cheese and nuts would likely have a better nutritional profile than this specific SKU.