THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS CREAMY SWISS WITH CLASSIC BREADSTICS
THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS CREAMY SWISS WITH CLASSIC BREADSTICS scores 29/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content.
This product received a FoodScore of 29/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It provides 11.4g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its nutritional profile.
A significant concern is the 10g of saturated fat per 100g, which is high.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is an ultra-processed food, unlike generic dairy.
Consider this as an occasional snack rather than a regular part of your diet.
Scores -4 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
11.4g
23% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
657.14mg
29% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (11.4g)+7
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (10g)-14
Sodium (657.1mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 29
THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS CREAMY SWISS WITH CLASSIC BREADSTICS received a FoodScore of 29 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), which incurs a significant penalty. While the product offers 11.4g of protein per 100g and a notable 571.43mg of calcium (44% DV), these positive contributions are offset by several nutritional drawbacks. A major factor is the high content of saturated fat, at 10g per 100g, which is a considerable penalty. The sodium content, at 657.14mg per 100g, also contributes negatively to the score. The presence of ingredients like sodium phosphate and sodium polyphosphate in the cheese spread indicates a higher degree of processing. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically be less processed and have lower saturated fat, this product's formulation leads to a lower FoodScore.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in the laughing cow, cheese dippers creamy swiss with classic breadstics actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Calcium
This product provides a notable amount of calcium, with 571.43mg per 100g, contributing 44% of the Daily Value. 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 in the diet is important for overall skeletal health, particularly as part of a balanced dietary pattern.
Protein Contribution
THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS offers 11.4g of protein per 100g. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth, and contributes to satiety, which can be helpful in managing hunger between meals. While this product is not a primary protein source, its contribution can help meet daily protein needs when consumed as part of a varied diet.
Convenient Snack Option
This product is designed for convenience, offering a pre-portioned snack that is easy to transport and consume. For individuals seeking a quick option that includes both a dairy component and a carbohydrate, it can serve as a readily available snack. Its individual packaging makes it suitable for on-the-go consumption, fitting into busy schedules.
THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS CREAMY SWISS WITH CLASSIC BREADSTICS scores 29/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content.
How to eat it
THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS are typically consumed as a single-serving snack, often packed in lunchboxes or eaten on the go. The portion size is fixed, making it easy to manage intake, but it's important to consider its nutritional density within your daily calorie budget.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this snack with a serving of fresh fruit or vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients.
Consider this product as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and saturated fat content.
If seeking a more nutrient-dense dairy snack, consider plain Greek yogurt with whole-grain crackers as an alternative.
Be mindful of the overall sodium intake from other foods throughout the day, as this product contributes a notable amount of sodium.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers with specific sensitivities or dietary concerns should note. The presence of nonfat milk, Swiss and semisoft cheese, and butter means it contains dairy, making it unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The breadsticks contain wheat flour and barley malt extract, indicating the presence of gluten, which is a concern for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Additionally, the use of sodium phosphate and sodium polyphosphate as stabilizers and emulsifiers is common in processed cheese products. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit intake of foods with multiple food additives, particularly within an ultra-processed food context.
Is THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS CREAMY SWISS WITH CLASSIC BREADSTICS healthy?
This product received a FoodScore of 29/100, classifying it as an 'Avoid' choice. While it provides calcium and protein, its status as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content are significant nutritional drawbacks. It is best considered an occasional snack rather than a regular part of a health-focused diet.
How does THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS compare to other cheese snacks?
Compared to a less processed option like a string cheese stick (e.g., from brands like Sargento or Kraft), THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS has a higher degree of processing due to its multiple ingredients and added breadsticks. While both provide dairy, the Dippers' ultra-processed classification and higher saturated fat content differentiate it from simpler cheese snacks.
What is the role of sodium phosphate and sodium polyphosphate in this product?
Sodium phosphate and sodium polyphosphate are food additives used in the spreadable cheese to improve its texture, stability, and shelf life. They act as emulsifiers, helping to keep the fat and water components of the cheese blended smoothly. These ingredients are common in many processed cheese products.
How many servings of this product can I have in a day?
Given its FoodScore of 29/100 and its nutritional profile, it is advisable to consume THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS in moderation. For most individuals, one serving occasionally as a snack would be appropriate. Regular daily consumption could contribute significantly to saturated fat and sodium intake.
Does this product contain any added sugar?
According to the nutrition facts, THE LAUGHING COW, CHEESE DIPPERS CREAMY SWISS WITH CLASSIC BREADSTICS contains 0g of added sugar per 100g. This is a positive aspect, as many processed snacks contain significant amounts of added sugars. The carbohydrate content primarily comes from the breadsticks.