THE LAUGHING COW, BLUE CHEESE WEDGES scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing some protein and calcium.
This product received a FoodScore of 44/100, categorized as Poor.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
A single wedge contributes significantly to daily sodium intake with 1047.62mg per 100g.
Compared to generic dairy, this SKU has higher sodium and is more processed.
Consider pairing with whole foods to balance its nutritional profile.
Scores +11 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
14.29g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1047.62mg
46% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.8g)-3
Sodium (1047.6mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
THE LAUGHING COW, BLUE CHEESE WEDGES received a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While it provides a notable 14.29g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score, this is offset by its high sodium content of 1047.62mg per 100g, which is a major detractor. The product also contains 4.76g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a minor penalty. Ingredients like sodium phosphate and sodium polyphosphate are used as emulsifiers and contribute to the overall sodium load. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like natural blue cheese, this product typically has a higher sodium content and contains more additives due to its processing, which impacts its overall nutritional quality and score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in the laughing cow, blue cheese wedges actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
THE LAUGHING COW, BLUE CHEESE WEDGES offers a moderate amount of protein, with 14.29g per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and satiety. Including protein in snacks can help manage hunger between meals. While a single wedge is a smaller serving, it can contribute to your daily protein goals when consumed as part of a balanced snack.
Provides Calcium
This product is a source of calcium, providing 380.95mg per 100g, which is 29% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. Incorporating calcium-rich foods into your diet is important for maintaining skeletal integrity. The calcium content in THE LAUGHING COW wedges can help meet a portion of your daily calcium needs.
Convenient Snack Option
THE LAUGHING COW, BLUE CHEESE WEDGES are individually portioned and shelf-stable, making them a convenient and portable snack option. This can be useful for individuals seeking a quick source of protein and calcium when on the go, or as an easy addition to packed lunches. Its format can help with portion control compared to larger blocks of cheese.
THE LAUGHING COW, BLUE CHEESE WEDGES scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing some protein and calcium.
How to eat it
THE LAUGHING COW, BLUE CHEESE WEDGES are typically consumed as a spread or directly from the wrapper as a quick snack. A common portion is one or two wedges. They are often paired with crackers, vegetables, or fruit, offering a convenient way to add dairy to a meal or snack.
Pair a wedge with whole-grain crackers or fresh vegetable sticks like celery or carrots to add fiber and micronutrients.
Spread a wedge on a slice of apple or pear for a balanced snack combining fruit and dairy.
Use a wedge to add a creamy texture and flavor to a sandwich or wrap, reducing the need for higher-fat spreads.
Be mindful of the sodium content; balance your intake by choosing low-sodium options for other meals throughout the day.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA class 4), which means it contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen, such as sodium phosphate and sodium polyphosphate, used for texture and stability. While these are generally recognized as safe, a diet high in ultra-processed foods is associated with less favorable health outcomes. The high sodium content (1047.62mg per 100g) is a significant concern, especially for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. Consumers with milk allergies should avoid this product as it contains various forms of cheese and milk ingredients.
THE LAUGHING COW, BLUE CHEESE WEDGES received a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor). While it provides protein and calcium, its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content are significant nutritional drawbacks. It's best considered an occasional snack rather than a dietary staple.
How does THE LAUGHING COW compare to other cheese products?
Compared to a generic natural blue cheese, THE LAUGHING COW, BLUE CHEESE WEDGES is more processed and typically higher in sodium. For example, a brand like Sargento's natural cheese snacks would generally have a simpler ingredient list and often lower sodium per serving, offering a less processed dairy option.
What are 'sodium phosphate and sodium polyphosphate' in the ingredient list?
These are emulsifying salts used to create the smooth, creamy texture and extend the shelf life of processed cheese products. They contribute to the overall sodium content of the product and are common in ultra-processed foods.
How many wedges can I eat in a day?
Given the high sodium content (over 1000mg per 100g), it's advisable to consume THE LAUGHING COW, BLUE CHEESE WEDGES in moderation. One or two wedges as part of a balanced snack is a reasonable portion, especially if you are mindful of your overall daily sodium intake from other foods.
Does this product contain real blue cheese?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies "CHEDDAR, BLUE, AND SEMISOFT CHEESE." This indicates that actual blue cheese is a component of the product, alongside other cheeses and dairy ingredients, contributing to its flavor profile.