THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges score 47/100 (Decent) due to its notable calcium and Vitamin A content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
This product receives a FoodScore of 47/100, indicating it is a decent choice.
A single wedge provides a good source of calcium (40% DV) and Vitamin A (292% DV).
The primary nutritional concerns are its sodium content (842.11mg/100g) and saturated fat (5.26g/100g).
As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it contains more ingredients than generic cheese.
Consider portion control to manage sodium intake, especially if consuming multiple wedges.
Scores -5 points above the dairy category average (52/100 across 162 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
10.53g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
842.11mg
37% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (10.5g)+6
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (5.3g)-4
Sodium (842.1mg)-4
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 47
THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges earned a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas for moderation. On the positive side, the product receives bonus points for its protein content, providing 10.53g per 100g, and for key micronutrients like calcium (525.79mg, 40% DV) and Vitamin A (292% DV). However, several factors contribute to penalties. The product contains 5.26g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a significant contributor to its score reduction. Its sodium content is also high at 842.11mg per 100g, leading to another penalty. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 food, it is considered processed, containing ingredients such as sodium polyphosphate and milk protein concentrate, which results in a processing penalty. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like natural Swiss cheese, this product typically has a higher sodium content due to its formulation as a processed cheese product.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in the laughing cow creamy light swiss wedges actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges are a good source of calcium, providing 525.79mg per 100g, which is 40% 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 foods rich in calcium, like these wedges, can contribute to meeting daily calcium requirements, especially for individuals who may not consume enough dairy or other calcium-fortified foods regularly. The presence of tricalcium phosphate also contributes to the calcium content.
Contributes to Vision and Immune Function
This product is an excellent source of Vitamin A, delivering 292% of the Daily Value per 100g, primarily from Vitamin A acetate. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining healthy vision, particularly in low light, and supports the proper functioning of the immune system. It also plays a role in cell growth and differentiation. Incorporating foods with Vitamin A can help support overall health, especially for those looking to boost their intake of this fat-soluble vitamin.
Provides Protein for Satiety
With 10.53g of protein per 100g, THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is a macronutrient essential for building and repairing tissues, and it plays a role in enzyme and hormone production. Including protein-rich foods in meals and snacks can help promote feelings of fullness and satiety, which may be beneficial for managing appetite and supporting overall dietary goals.
THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges score 47/100 (Decent) due to its notable calcium and Vitamin A content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
How to eat it
THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges are commonly consumed as a snack or spread. Their individual packaging makes them convenient for on-the-go consumption or as a quick addition to meals. A typical serving is one wedge, which can be paired with various foods.
Pair a wedge with whole-grain crackers or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots or celery for added fiber and nutrients.
Spread a wedge on a slice of whole-wheat toast or a rice cake for a quick and satisfying breakfast or snack.
Incorporate a wedge into a light lunch by spreading it on a turkey or veggie wrap to add creaminess and flavor.
To manage sodium intake, consider enjoying these wedges in moderation, especially if you are monitoring your sodium consumption from other sources.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with a dairy allergy should avoid THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges as they contain pasteurized milk and part-skim milk, as well as whey and milk protein concentrate. The product also contains sodium polyphosphate, a common food additive used as an emulsifier and texturizer in processed cheese products. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit intake of highly processed foods. The sodium content is relatively high, so those monitoring their sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns should be mindful of portion sizes.
Is THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges healthy?
THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges received a FoodScore of 47/100, categorized as 'Decent.' It offers beneficial nutrients like calcium and Vitamin A. However, its sodium and saturated fat content are notable, so it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges compare to other cheeses?
Compared to a generic natural Swiss cheese, THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges generally have a higher sodium content due to its processing. For example, a brand like Sargento's Swiss cheese slices typically has less sodium per serving. It's a processed cheese product, meaning it contains additional ingredients beyond milk, cultures, salt, and enzymes.
What is sodium polyphosphate in the ingredient list?
Sodium polyphosphate is an ingredient used in processed cheeses like THE LAUGHING COW wedges primarily as an emulsifier. It helps to create the smooth, creamy texture and prevents the fat and water from separating. It also contributes to the product's shelf stability.
How many wedges can I eat in a day?
While there's no strict limit, considering the sodium content of 842.11mg per 100g, it's advisable to consume these wedges in moderation. One or two wedges as part of a snack or meal would contribute to nutrient intake without significantly increasing sodium beyond recommended daily limits, especially if you are mindful of other sodium sources.
Are THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, THE LAUGHING COW Creamy Light Swiss Wedges are suitable for many low-carb diets as they contain 0g of fiber and minimal carbohydrates. Their protein and fat content can contribute to satiety on such diets. Always check the full nutritional profile against your specific dietary requirements.