Smithfield Packaged Meats . MEXICAN STYLE BLEND REDUCED FAT CHEESE, MEXICAN STYLE BLEND receives a FoodScore of 39/100 (Poor), primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as a processed food.
FoodScore: 39/100 (Poor), indicating a less optimal nutritional profile.
Contains 25g of protein per 100g serving, contributing to satiety.
High sodium content at 678.57mg per 100g is a significant concern.
This product is NOVA class 3 (processed), similar to many shredded cheese blends.
A 1/3 cup serving provides a good source of calcium, with 63% DV per 100g.
Scores +6 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
25g
50% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
678.57mg
30% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (25g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (10.7g)-15
Sodium (678.6mg)-3
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 39
Smithfield Packaged Meats . MEXICAN STYLE BLEND REDUCED FAT CHEESE, MEXICAN STYLE BLEND scores 39/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score reflects a combination of beneficial nutrients and less favorable components. On the positive side, it provides a substantial 25g of protein per 100g, which contributes +10 points to its score. It also offers a significant amount of calcium, with 821.43mg (63% DV) per 100g, adding +2 points. However, several factors detract from its overall score. The product contains 10.71g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -15 point penalty. Its sodium content is also high at 678.57mg per 100g, resulting in a -3 point penalty. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a -5 point penalty. The inclusion of potato starch and powdered cellulose to prevent caking is typical for shredded cheese products but contributes to its processed classification. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this specific Smithfield Packaged Meats Corp. product's reduced fat nature is a positive, but its sodium level remains a key consideration.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smithfield packaged meats . mexican style blend reduced fat cheese, mexican style blend actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Protein
This product provides 25g 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 a serving into a meal can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially aiding in overall calorie management. This amount is comparable to or higher than many other dairy products.
Significant Calcium Contribution
With 821.43mg of calcium per 100g, this cheese blend offers 63% of the Daily Value for calcium. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it also plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. Including this product in your diet can help you meet your daily calcium requirements, especially if you do not consume other dairy products regularly. The calcium content is a notable benefit.
Reduced Fat Option
As a reduced-fat cheese blend, this product contains 17.89g of total fat and 10.71g of saturated fat per 100g. This is lower than full-fat cheese varieties, which can be beneficial for individuals monitoring their fat intake. Choosing reduced-fat dairy products can be a strategy to manage overall dietary fat, particularly saturated fat, while still enjoying the flavor and nutritional benefits of cheese. The "reduced fat" claim is supported by the nutritional data.
Smithfield Packaged Meats . MEXICAN STYLE BLEND REDUCED FAT CHEESE, MEXICAN STYLE BLEND receives a FoodScore of 39/100 (Poor), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
This Mexican-style blend is typically used as a topping or an ingredient in cooked dishes. Common uses include tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and casseroles. A typical portion size is 1/3 cup, which is 37g.
Use this cheese blend to enhance flavor and texture in vegetable-heavy dishes like salads or roasted vegetables.
Combine with lean protein sources such as grilled chicken or beans to create a more balanced meal.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 1/3 cup serving is appropriate for most meals to manage sodium intake.
Pair with fresh salsa and avocado to add fiber and healthy fats to your meal.
Consider using it in dishes where its flavor can be distributed across multiple servings, such as a large casserole.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains natamycin, a natural mold inhibitor, which is generally recognized as safe but may be a consideration for those sensitive to food additives. The primary allergen declared is milk, as expected for a dairy product. Individuals with a dairy allergy should avoid this product. Due to its high sodium content (678.57mg per 100g), individuals on a sodium-restricted diet or those with high blood pressure should consume this product in moderation. While it is a reduced-fat option, the saturated fat content is still notable, and excessive consumption could contribute to higher intake of saturated fats.
This product has a FoodScore of 39/100 (Poor). While it offers a good source of protein and calcium, its high sodium content and classification as a processed food contribute to a lower overall nutritional score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and alongside other nutrient-dense foods.
How does Smithfield Packaged Meats . MEXICAN STYLE BLEND REDUCED FAT CHEESE, MEXICAN STYLE BLEND compare to other shredded cheeses?
Compared to many full-fat shredded cheese blends, this Smithfield product is lower in total and saturated fat. However, its sodium content is similar to or higher than some other shredded cheese options. For example, a generic full-fat cheddar cheese might have more saturated fat but potentially less sodium, depending on the brand like Tillamook.
What is "reduced fat" in this cheese blend?
The term "reduced fat" indicates that this cheese blend contains at least 25% less fat than the standard version of the product. In this case, it uses pasteurized part-skim milk as the primary ingredient for its cheeses, resulting in lower fat content compared to cheeses made with whole milk.
How much of this cheese blend should I eat in a day?
A serving size is 1/3 cup (37g). Given its sodium and saturated fat content, it's advisable to consume this product in moderation. Incorporating it as part of a meal rather than a standalone snack can help manage overall intake. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting saturated fat and sodium.
What is potato starch and powdered cellulose used for in this product?
Potato starch and powdered cellulose are added to this shredded cheese blend to prevent caking. These ingredients help keep the cheese shreds from sticking together, making it easier to use and store. They are common additives in many pre-shredded cheese products.