TACO BELL COTIJA GRATED CHEESE TOPPING scores 34/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, despite providing protein and calcium.
FoodScore: 34/100 (Poor), indicating it's not a primary choice for daily nutrition.
A 100g serving contains 20g of protein, contributing to satiety.
The product is high in sodium (1500mg per 100g) and saturated fat (20g per 100g).
It is classified as NOVA class 3 (processed), similar to many shredded cheese products.
Use in small portions to enhance flavor without significantly increasing nutrient intake.
Scores +1 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
20g
40% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1500mg
65% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (20g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (20g)-15
Sodium (1500mg)-8
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 34
TACO BELL COTIJA GRATED CHEESE TOPPING receives a FoodScore of 34 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by its high levels of saturated fat and sodium. A 100g serving contains 20g of saturated fat, which significantly contributes to the penalty points. Similarly, the 1500mg of sodium per 100g also incurs a substantial penalty. The product is also classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food, which further reduces its score. On the positive side, it gains bonus points for its protein content, providing 20g per 100g, and for its calcium, delivering 800mg (62% DV). Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like plain cotija cheese, this TACO BELL product's formulation, including the addition of cellulose powder to prevent caking, aligns with typical processed cheese toppings, often resulting in similar nutritional profiles concerning fat and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in taco bell cotija grated cheese topping, cotija actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This cotija cheese topping provides 20g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and satiety. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including enzyme production and tissue repair. Incorporating a small amount of this cheese can help increase the protein content of a meal, especially when paired with other protein sources.
Good Source of Calcium
With 800mg of calcium per 100g, this product offers a significant amount of this essential mineral, providing 62% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, nerve function, and muscle contraction. While it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile, this cheese can be a contributor to daily calcium intake.
Flavor Enhancement in Moderation
While not a primary source of beneficial nutrients, TACO BELL COTIJA GRATED CHEESE TOPPING can serve as a flavorful addition to meals. Its distinct salty and tangy profile can enhance the taste of dishes, potentially making healthier, plainer foods more appealing. Using small amounts can provide a burst of flavor without significantly impacting the overall nutritional balance of a meal.
TACO BELL COTIJA GRATED CHEESE TOPPING scores 34/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, despite providing protein and calcium.
How to eat it
Cotija cheese is typically used as a finishing touch, sprinkled over dishes for a salty, tangy flavor. Common uses include topping tacos, enchiladas, salads, or corn. Due to its strong flavor and high sodium content, small portions are usually sufficient.
Sprinkle a small amount over vegetable-heavy dishes like roasted corn or black bean salads to add flavor without excessive calories.
Combine with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime juice to amplify flavor, allowing you to use less cheese overall.
Use as a garnish for homemade tacos or burritos, focusing on lean protein and abundant vegetables as the main components.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content in TACO BELL COTIJA GRATED CHEESE TOPPING, which is 1500mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should use this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes pasteurized milk, indicating it is a dairy product and thus contains a common allergen. The addition of cellulose powder is a common anti-caking agent in shredded cheeses and is generally recognized as safe, but it's a marker of a processed food. Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor.
Is TACO BELL COTIJA GRATED CHEESE TOPPING healthy?
With a FoodScore of 34/100 (Poor), this product is not considered a primary healthy food choice. It is high in saturated fat and sodium, which are nutrients to limit for most individuals. However, it does provide protein and calcium, so it can be used in moderation as a flavor enhancer.
How does TACO BELL COTIJA GRATED CHEESE TOPPING compare to generic cotija cheese?
Compared to a generic block of cotija cheese, the TACO BELL product is likely to have a similar nutritional profile in terms of fat and protein. However, processed shredded cheeses, like this one, often contain anti-caking agents such as cellulose powder, which are not typically found in a solid block of cheese. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What is cellulose powder in this cheese?
Cellulose powder is added to TACO BELL COTIJA GRATED CHEESE TOPPING to prevent the cheese from clumping together. It helps maintain a free-flowing texture, which is common in many pre-shredded cheese products. It is a fiber-based ingredient and is generally considered safe for consumption.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cheese?
The declared serving size is 2 tsp, which is a small amount. Given its high sodium and saturated fat content, sticking to this small portion size or even less is advisable, especially if you are consuming other high-sodium or high-fat foods in the same meal. It's best used as a garnish rather than a primary ingredient.
Can this cheese be used by people with lactose intolerance?
Cotija cheese is made from pasteurized milk and contains lactose, though aged cheeses generally have lower lactose levels than fresh cheeses. Individuals with severe lactose intolerance may still experience symptoms. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian if you have concerns about lactose intolerance and this product.