VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR receives a FoodScore of 37/100 (Poor). Its high sodium content is the primary factor contributing to this score, despite a notable protein contribution.
FoodScore: 37/100 (Poor), indicating a less optimal nutritional profile.
Contains 17.9g of protein per 100g, a positive nutritional aspect.
A significant concern is the 1639.3mg of sodium per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Best consumed in small portions due to its high sodium and saturated fat.
Scores +4 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
17.89g
36% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1639.29mg
71% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (17.9g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (7.1g)-8
Sodium (1639.3mg)-9
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 37
VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR scores 37/100, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) and its high sodium content. The product contains 1639.3mg of sodium per 100g, which significantly penalizes its score. It also contributes 7.1g of saturated fat per 100g, further impacting its nutritional rating. On the positive side, VELVEETA provides 17.9g of protein per 100g, which is a notable bonus. It also offers significant amounts of calcium (41% DV) and Vitamin A (199% DV). However, the presence of ingredients like modified food starch and sodium phosphate are characteristic of ultra-processed foods, which generally offer less nutritional density compared to their minimally processed counterparts. Compared to a generic cheddar cheese baseline, this VELVEETA product tends to have a higher sodium content and a more extensive ingredient list, reflecting its processed nature.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in velveeta, shreds, cheddar, cheddar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR provides 17.9g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and hormone synthesis. Including adequate protein in the diet can contribute to satiety, helping manage appetite. While this product is processed, its protein content can contribute to daily protein intake when consumed as part of a balanced meal.
Good Source of Calcium
This product is a good source of calcium, providing 535.71mg (41% DV) per 100g. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Incorporating calcium-rich foods into the diet is important for skeletal health throughout life. While VELVEETA contains calcium, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile when choosing dairy sources.
Rich in Vitamin A
VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR is rich in Vitamin A, offering 199% DV per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. It plays a role in cell growth and differentiation. The high Vitamin A content in this product can contribute significantly to your daily requirements for this micronutrient.
VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR receives a FoodScore of 37/100 (Poor). Its high sodium content is the primary factor contributing to this score, despite a notable protein contribution.
How to eat it
VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR is typically used as a topping or an ingredient in cooked dishes, valued for its meltability and creamy texture. Common uses include casseroles, macaroni and cheese, and quesadillas. Due to its flavor intensity and nutritional profile, it is often consumed in smaller portions.
Combine with fresh vegetables in dishes like omelets or baked potatoes to add fiber and other micronutrients.
Use as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary ingredient, focusing on smaller portion sizes to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Pair with whole grains, such as whole wheat pasta or brown rice, to increase the fiber content of your meal.
Consider using it in recipes that call for a strong cheese flavor, allowing a small amount to go a long way.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR, which is 1639.29mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, particularly those with hypertension or kidney concerns, should consume this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes sodium phosphate, a common food additive that can contribute to overall phosphorus intake, which may be a concern for individuals with certain kidney conditions. The product also contains milk, which is a common allergen. As an ultra-processed food, it contains several additives and modified ingredients that are not typically found in minimally processed dairy products.
VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR has a FoodScore of 37/100 (Poor). While it provides protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food mean it is not considered a healthy everyday food choice. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR compare to generic cheddar cheese?
Compared to generic cheddar cheese, VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR typically has a higher sodium content and a more extensive ingredient list, including several additives. Generic cheddar cheese is generally less processed and may offer a more favorable nutritional profile in terms of sodium and additives. For example, a brand like Tillamook cheddar would typically have fewer ingredients and lower sodium.
What is the role of 'modified food starch' in this product?
Modified food starch is used in VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR as a thickener and stabilizer, contributing to the product's texture and melt characteristics. It helps maintain the desired consistency and prevents separation of ingredients, which is common in many processed food items. This ingredient is characteristic of ultra-processed foods.
What is a recommended portion size for VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR?
The declared serving size is 0.25 cup. Given its high sodium and saturated fat content, it is advisable to stick to this portion size or even smaller, especially if you are consuming other high-sodium foods throughout the day. Moderation is key to fitting this product into a balanced dietary pattern.
Can VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR be used in a low-sodium diet?
No, VELVEETA SHREDS CHEDDAR is not suitable for a low-sodium diet due to its very high sodium content (1639.29mg per 100g). Individuals following a low-sodium diet should look for cheese alternatives specifically labeled as 'low sodium' or choose fresh, unprocessed dairy products with naturally lower sodium levels.