SELECT FARMS MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE, SMOKE FLAVOR scores 42/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **high saturated fat content** and classification as a processed food.
FoodScore: 42/100 (Poor), indicating a need for moderation in a balanced diet.
A notable strength is its calcium content, providing 55% DV per 100g serving.
The primary concern is the 19g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing significantly to penalties.
This product is a NOVA class 3 (processed) food, similar to many other packaged cheeses.
Consider portion control, as a single stick provides a significant amount of fat and sodium.
Scores +9 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
23.81g
48% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
642.86mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (23.8g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (19g)-15
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 42
SELECT FARMS MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE, SMOKE FLAVOR receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is influenced by several factors, both positive and negative. On the positive side, the product earns a +10 bonus for its protein content of 23.81g per 100g, a substantial amount for a dairy item. It also receives a +4 bonus for key micronutrients, specifically providing 55% DV for calcium and 159% DV for Vitamin A. However, significant penalties impact the overall score. A major deduction of -15 points is applied due to the high saturated fat content, which stands at 19g per 100g. The sodium level, at 642.86mg per 100g, incurs a -2 penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA class 3 processed food, indicated by ingredients like "COLOR ADDED" and "NATURAL SMOKE FLAVOR ADDED", results in a -5 penalty. When compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this SELECT FARMS product's score is typical for many processed cheese varieties, often reflecting similar levels of saturated fat and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in select farms mild cheddar cheese, smoke flavor actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health with Calcium
This product is a significant source of calcium, providing 714.29mg, or 55% of the Daily Value, per 100g. Calcium is an essential mineral crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. Including sources of calcium like SELECT FARMS MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE in your diet can contribute to meeting daily calcium requirements, particularly important for adolescents and older adults. Pairing it with vitamin D-rich foods can further enhance calcium absorption.
Contributes to Protein Intake
With 23.81g of protein per 100g, SELECT FARMS MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE offers a good source of dietary protein. Protein is vital for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. Incorporating protein-rich foods into meals and snacks can help promote satiety and support muscle maintenance. This makes it a useful component in a balanced diet, especially for those looking to increase their protein consumption.
Provides Vitamin A for Vision and Immunity
This cheese provides 159% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g, making it a rich source of this fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. Including foods high in Vitamin A can contribute to overall health and well-being. The fat content in the cheese can also aid in the absorption of this vitamin.
SELECT FARMS MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE, SMOKE FLAVOR scores 42/100 (Poor) primarily due to its high saturated fat content and classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
Cheese sticks are commonly consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack in the US. They are often packed in lunchboxes or eaten on the go. While portioned, it's important to be mindful of the overall nutritional contribution of each stick, particularly regarding fat and sodium.
Pair with fruits or vegetables: Combine a SELECT FARMS cheese stick with an apple, pear, or a handful of baby carrots to add fiber and additional micronutrients to your snack.
Incorporate into balanced meals: Dice and add to salads or use as a topping for vegetable-based dishes to enhance flavor and boost protein content.
Mindful portioning: While convenient, be aware that even a single stick contributes to daily fat and sodium intake; consider it as part of your overall dietary budget.
Consider as a protein source: Use a cheese stick as a quick protein boost between meals, especially when other protein options are unavailable.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their intake of saturated fat and sodium should be mindful of portion sizes when consuming SELECT FARMS MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE, SMOKE FLAVOR. The product contains pasteurized milk, which is an allergen for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The presence of "COLOR ADDED" and "NATURAL SMOKE FLAVOR ADDED" indicates a degree of processing (NOVA class 3). While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer foods with fewer additives. There are no specific interactions or contraindications noted for this product beyond general dietary considerations for fat and sodium.
Is SELECT FARMS MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE, SMOKE FLAVOR healthy?
With a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor), this product is best consumed in moderation. It provides beneficial nutrients like calcium and protein, but also contains significant amounts of saturated fat and sodium. A balanced diet should include a variety of foods, and this cheese can fit in when portioned appropriately.
How does SELECT FARMS MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE compare to other cheese brands?
Compared to a generic block of cheddar cheese, SELECT FARMS MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE, SMOKE FLAVOR has a similar nutritional profile in terms of fat and protein. For instance, a brand like Sargento Balanced Breaks often pairs cheese with nuts or dried fruit, offering a more diverse nutrient profile in a single snack. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What does 'NATURAL SMOKE FLAVOR ADDED' mean?
The term 'NATURAL SMOKE FLAVOR ADDED' indicates that the smoke flavor is derived from natural sources, such as wood, rather than being artificially created. This ingredient contributes to the product's NOVA class 3 (processed) classification, as it is an additive used to enhance flavor. It's a common ingredient in many processed foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cheese?
The declared serving size is 1 STICK. While convenient, this single stick contributes to your daily intake of saturated fat and sodium. For a balanced diet, consider consuming one stick as a snack, or using a smaller portion if incorporating it into a meal, to manage overall nutrient intake.
Can this cheese be part of a low-sodium diet?
With 642.86mg of sodium per 100g, or approximately 135mg per stick, this product is not considered low in sodium. Individuals following a low-sodium diet should limit their intake of this cheese and opt for lower-sodium dairy alternatives or fresh, unprocessed foods to manage their daily sodium consumption.