KRAFT Mexican Style Four Cheese Shredded receives a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). Its score is primarily impacted by its **high saturated fat content** and classification as a processed food.
FoodScore: 42/100 (Poor), indicating a lower nutritional density.
Contains 21.43g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
High in saturated fat at 17.86g per 100g, a key nutritional concern.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), similar to many shredded cheese products.
A 0.25 cup serving provides 55% DV for calcium, a significant micronutrient.
Scores -10 points above the dairy category average (52/100 across 162 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
21.43g
43% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
571.43mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (21.4g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (571.4mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 42
KRAFT Mexican Style Four Cheese Shredded earns a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score reflects a combination of nutritional benefits and drawbacks. On the positive side, the product receives bonus points for its protein content, providing 21.43g per 100g, which is a substantial amount. It also contributes significantly to micronutrient intake, with 714.29mg of calcium (55% DV) and 119% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. However, several factors reduce its overall score. A significant penalty is applied due to its high saturated fat content of 17.86g per 100g. The sodium level, at 571.43mg per 100g, also incurs a penalty, although less severe. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food, due to the inclusion of ingredients like potato starch and cellulose powder to prevent caking, contributes a penalty of 5 points. When compared to generic shredded cheese, this KRAFT product's nutritional profile is broadly similar, with comparable levels of fat, protein, and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kraft mexican style four cheese shredded actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
This KRAFT shredded cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 714.29mg per 100g, which is 55% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a crucial mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can help support bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Incorporating a serving of this cheese can contribute meaningfully to your daily calcium requirements, especially when paired with other dairy or calcium-fortified foods.
Contributes to Vitamin A Intake
KRAFT Mexican Style Four Cheese Shredded is a rich source of Vitamin A, offering 119% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. Including this cheese in your diet can help meet your daily Vitamin A needs, complementing other sources like leafy green vegetables and orange-colored fruits and vegetables. This makes it a convenient way to boost your intake of this fat-soluble vitamin.
Provides Satiating Protein
With 21.43g of protein per 100g, this cheese product can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety. Protein is a macronutrient vital for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Including protein-rich foods in meals can help manage appetite and support weight management efforts. While it also contains significant fat, the protein content can make a small serving a satisfying addition to meals, helping to round out the nutritional profile of dishes like salads or tacos.
KRAFT Mexican Style Four Cheese Shredded receives a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). Its score is primarily impacted by its high saturated fat content and classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
Shredded cheese is a common ingredient in many US households, often used to enhance flavor and texture in various dishes. A typical serving of 0.25 cup is easily incorporated into meals, but it's important to consider its overall nutritional contribution to your diet.
Use a measured portion (0.25 cup) to control saturated fat and sodium intake when adding to dishes.
Pair with vegetable-rich meals like salads, fajitas, or baked potatoes to boost fiber and micronutrient content.
Consider mixing with a lower-fat cheese or a plant-based alternative to reduce overall fat per serving.
Integrate into dishes where its flavor can be maximized, such as in a small amount over chili or a quesadilla, rather than as a primary component.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains pasteurized milk and is therefore unsuitable for individuals with a dairy allergy. The ingredient list includes potato starch, cellulose powder, and calcium sulfate, which are added to prevent caking. While generally recognized as safe, these are common additives in processed foods that contribute to its NOVA 3 classification. Natamycin, a natural mold inhibitor, is also present. For individuals monitoring sodium intake, the 571.43mg per 100g should be noted, as it contributes significantly to daily limits, especially if consumed in larger portions or with other high-sodium foods. There are no artificial colors or sweeteners listed, which may be a consideration for some consumers.
Is KRAFT Mexican Style Four Cheese Shredded a healthy choice?
KRAFT Mexican Style Four Cheese Shredded has a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). While it provides significant calcium and Vitamin A, its high saturated fat and sodium content, along with its processed nature, contribute to a lower overall nutritional score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does KRAFT shredded cheese compare to generic shredded cheese?
Compared to generic shredded cheese, KRAFT Mexican Style Four Cheese Shredded has a very similar nutritional profile. Both typically offer comparable amounts of protein, fat (including saturated fat), and sodium. The primary differences often lie in the specific blend of cheeses and the anti-caking agents used.
What is 'Natamycin' in the ingredient list?
Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor used to extend the shelf life of cheese products. It is a common food additive that helps prevent the growth of mold on the surface of the cheese, ensuring product quality and safety without affecting flavor.
How much shredded cheese is a reasonable portion?
A standard serving size for this product is 0.25 cup. Sticking to this portion helps manage intake of saturated fat and sodium. For context, 0.25 cup provides about 90 calories and 4.5g of saturated fat, which is about 23% of the Daily Value for saturated fat.
Can I use this cheese if I'm lactose intolerant?
As this product is made from pasteurized milk, it contains lactose. Individuals with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort. Some hard cheeses naturally have less lactose, but shredded cheese products often retain enough to cause issues. It is generally not recommended for those with severe lactose intolerance.
How does this compare to other cheese brands like Sargento?
KRAFT Mexican Style Four Cheese Shredded is nutritionally comparable to many other mainstream shredded cheese brands, such as Sargento. While specific blends and anti-caking agents may vary, the macro-nutrient profiles (protein, fat, sodium) and micronutrient contributions (calcium, Vitamin A) are often quite similar across these brands within the shredded cheese category.