SARGENTO MOZZARELLA CHEESE scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and its saturated fat content, despite providing beneficial protein and micronutrients.
SARGENTO Mozzarella Cheese has a FoodScore of 42/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
A serving provides 25g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
The product contains 12.5g of saturated fat per 100g, a primary nutritional concern.
It is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), similar to many shredded cheese products.
Consider portion control due to its sodium content of 642.86mg per 100g.
Scores +9 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.9g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
25g
50% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
642.86mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (25g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
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What holds it back
Saturated fat (12.5g)-15
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 42
SARGENTO MOZZARELLA CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 42/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food. While it offers a significant amount of protein at 25g per 100g, earning a +10 bonus, and contributes beneficial micronutrients like Calcium (55% DV) and Vitamin A (79% DV), these positive aspects are offset by other factors. The product incurs a -15 penalty for its saturated fat content of 12.5g per 100g. Additionally, its sodium level of 642.86mg per 100g results in a -2 penalty. The presence of ingredients like potato starch and powdered cellulose to prevent caking, and natamycin as a mold inhibitor, are characteristic of processed dairy products. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this SARGENTO product's nutritional profile is typical for shredded mozzarella, with similar contributions of protein, fat, and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sargento mozzarella cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth
SARGENTO MOZZARELLA CHEESE is a good source of protein, providing 25g per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for the repair and growth of muscle tissue, as well as for producing enzymes and hormones. Including protein-rich foods in your diet can help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake. This makes it a useful component for individuals looking to maintain or increase their protein consumption.
Contributes to Bone Health
This mozzarella cheese provides a substantial amount of calcium, with 714.29mg per 100g, which is 55% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. Adequate calcium intake is particularly important for preventing bone density loss as we age. Dairy products like cheese are a readily available source of this key mineral.
Provides Vitamin A for Vision and Immunity
SARGENTO MOZZARELLA CHEESE is a notable source of Vitamin A, contributing 79% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A plays a critical role in maintaining healthy vision, particularly in low light conditions. It also supports immune function, helping the body defend against infections. Incorporating foods rich in Vitamin A can contribute to overall health and well-being.
SARGENTO MOZZARELLA CHEESE scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and its saturated fat content, despite providing beneficial protein and micronutrients.
How to eat it
Shredded mozzarella cheese is commonly used in US diets as a topping for pizzas, in baked pasta dishes like lasagna, or melted into sandwiches. A typical serving size is 0.25 cup, which is about 28g. While versatile, it's important to consider its contribution to overall fat and sodium intake.
Use SARGENTO Mozzarella Cheese as a topping for vegetable-heavy pizzas or salads to add protein and calcium.
Combine with lower-sodium ingredients in recipes to balance the overall sodium content of your meal.
Measure your portions carefully; a little goes a long way in adding flavor and texture without excessive fat or sodium.
Pair with whole grains and lean proteins to create a balanced meal that incorporates the cheese as an accent rather than the main component.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains pasteurized milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with a dairy allergy. The ingredient list includes potato starch and powdered cellulose to prevent caking, which are common food additives in shredded cheeses and are generally recognized as safe. Natamycin, a natural mold inhibitor, is also present. For individuals monitoring sodium intake, the 642.86mg per 100g should be considered, especially if consuming larger portions or combining with other high-sodium foods. There are no specific interactions or major allergen concerns beyond dairy for the general population.
SARGENTO Mozzarella Cheese provides beneficial protein, calcium, and Vitamin A. However, its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and its saturated fat and sodium content contribute to its FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with attention to overall intake of saturated fat and sodium.
How does SARGENTO Mozzarella Cheese compare to other shredded cheeses?
Compared to many generic shredded mozzarella cheese products, SARGENTO Mozzarella Cheese has a similar nutritional profile, including comparable levels of protein, saturated fat, and sodium. For instance, a brand like Kraft Shredded Mozzarella would likely have a similar FoodScore due to similar ingredient profiles and macronutrient contributions.
What is 'powdered cellulose' in the ingredient list?
Powdered cellulose is a common food additive derived from plant fibers. In SARGENTO Mozzarella Cheese, it is used along with potato starch to prevent the shredded cheese from caking and sticking together. It is generally considered safe for consumption and is a form of dietary fiber, though the amount in this product is minimal (0.9g fiber per 100g).
What is a reasonable portion size for SARGENTO Mozzarella Cheese?
A typical serving size is 0.25 cup (about 28g). This portion contributes a moderate amount of calories, protein, and calcium, while also adding some saturated fat and sodium. Adhering to this portion size helps manage your intake of these nutrients, especially if you are monitoring fat or sodium.
Can SARGENTO Mozzarella Cheese be used in a low-sodium diet?
With 642.86mg of sodium per 100g, SARGENTO Mozzarella Cheese is not considered a low-sodium food. Individuals on a low-sodium diet should consume it sparingly and be mindful of other sodium sources in their meals. Opting for fresh mozzarella or other low-sodium cheese alternatives might be more suitable.