WEIGHT WATCHERS MEXICAN STYLE FOUR CHEESE BLEND scores 34/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its saturated fat content.
This WEIGHT WATCHERS cheese blend received a FoodScore of 34/100 (Poor).
It provides a notable 28.6g of protein per 100g serving.
A significant concern is the 14.3g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to penalties.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, unlike generic cheese.
Consider using smaller portions to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Scores +1 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
28.61g
57% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
571.43mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (28.6g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (14.3g)-15
Sodium (571.4mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 34
The WEIGHT WATCHERS MEXICAN STYLE FOUR CHEESE BLEND received a FoodScore of 34 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is influenced by several factors, both positive and negative. On the positive side, the product earns bonus points for its substantial protein content, providing 28.6g per 100g, and for key micronutrients like calcium (55% DV) and Vitamin A (119% DV). However, significant penalties are incurred due to its saturated fat content, which is 14.3g per 100g. The product also receives a penalty for its sodium level at 571.43mg per 100g. A major contributing factor to the lower score is its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed. Ingredients such as potato starch and powdered cellulose are added to prevent caking, and natamycin acts as a mold inhibitor, contributing to its ultra-processed status. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which is typically less processed, this blend's formulation with added ingredients and processing steps impacts its overall nutritional quality and score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in weight watchers mexican style four cheese blend, cheddar, monterey jack, asadero, queso quesadilla actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Protein
This WEIGHT WATCHERS cheese blend is a good source of protein, providing 28.6g per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, helping you feel full. Incorporating protein-rich foods can support various bodily functions and contribute to a balanced diet. This product can be a convenient way to add protein to meals, especially when looking for dairy options.
Rich in Calcium
The product is rich in calcium, supplying 714.29mg per 100g, which is 55% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a vital mineral for bone health, playing a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. Adequate calcium intake throughout life is important for preventing bone density loss. This cheese blend can contribute significantly to your daily calcium requirements.
High in Vitamin A
This cheese blend is high in Vitamin A, providing 119% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that supports vision, immune function, and skin health. The presence of artificial color in the cheddar cheese, along with naturally occurring Vitamin A, contributes to this high percentage. Including foods rich in Vitamin A can help support these important bodily systems.
WEIGHT WATCHERS MEXICAN STYLE FOUR CHEESE BLEND scores 34/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its saturated fat content.
How to eat it
Shredded cheese blends like WEIGHT WATCHERS MEXICAN STYLE FOUR CHEESE BLEND are commonly used as a topping or ingredient in cooked dishes. Typical portions are often around 1/4 to 1/3 cup, which is smaller than the 100g reference serving.
Use this cheese blend in moderation as a topping for salads or tacos to add flavor and protein without over-consuming sodium and saturated fat.
Combine with fiber-rich vegetables in dishes like quesadillas or omelets to create a more balanced meal.
Consider mixing with a lower-sodium, less processed cheese, such as fresh mozzarella, to reduce the overall sodium content of your meal.
Portion out servings before adding to recipes to help manage intake of calories, saturated fat, and sodium.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains reduced fat cheddar, reduced fat Monterey Jack, reduced fat Asadero and reduced fat Queso Quesadilla cheese, which are cultured pasteurized milk products. Individuals with a dairy allergy should avoid this product as milk is a primary ingredient. The ingredient list also includes potato starch and powdered cellulose to prevent caking, and natamycin as a natural mold inhibitor. While these are generally recognized as safe, some individuals may be sensitive to food additives. The product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which suggests a higher degree of industrial processing compared to whole, unprocessed foods. This classification is a general indicator of a food's processing level, not a direct health risk.
Is WEIGHT WATCHERS MEXICAN STYLE FOUR CHEESE BLEND healthy?
This cheese blend has a FoodScore of 34/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional quality. While it offers good protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium. Its classification as an ultra-processed food also contributes to its lower score. For a balanced diet, it's best consumed in moderation.
How does WEIGHT WATCHERS MEXICAN STYLE FOUR CHEESE BLEND compare to generic shredded cheese?
Compared to a generic full-fat shredded cheddar cheese, this WEIGHT WATCHERS blend is reduced-fat, which can mean lower total fat and saturated fat per serving. However, it is still classified as an ultra-processed food due to ingredients like potato starch and powdered cellulose. A generic, less processed cheese like a block of Tillamook cheddar, for example, would typically have a simpler ingredient list.
What is 'powdered cellulose' in this cheese blend?
Powdered cellulose is a common food additive derived from plant fibers. In this WEIGHT WATCHERS cheese blend, it is added along with potato starch to prevent the cheese from caking together. It helps maintain the shredded texture and prevents clumping, ensuring the product is easy to use.
What is a typical portion size for this cheese blend?
The declared serving size for this product is 0.333 cup. This is a reasonable portion for adding flavor and nutrients to a meal. Sticking to this serving size helps manage the intake of saturated fat and sodium, which are present in notable amounts in this product.
Can this cheese blend be used in a low-sodium diet?
With 571.43mg of sodium per 100g, this cheese blend is not considered a low-sodium food. Individuals following a low-sodium diet should consume it very sparingly or opt for lower-sodium cheese alternatives. Always check the nutrition label for sodium content when managing dietary intake.