Nutritional Analysis of Cheeze Its White Cheddar Snack Crackers

Cheeze-Its White Cheddar Snack Crackers, like many processed snack foods, contain a mix of both beneficial and potentially harmful ingredients. Enriched Flour: This is a refined wheat flour that has had certain vitamins and minerals added back in after processing. Although it has some nutritional content, it is devoid of fiber and less healthy than whole grains. Vegetable Oil: This can contribute to the calorie content of the snack. Depending on the type of vegetable oil used, it could impact heart health, due to high levels of saturated or trans fats. White Cheddar Cheese: This ingredient is high in protein and calcium. However, it also contains saturated fats and sodium, which should be consumed in moderation. Salt: While needed in small amounts, excessive salt can raise blood pressure and lead to heart diseases. Whey and Whey Protein Concentrate: These are milk byproducts rich in protein. However, they can cause digestive issues in those who are lactose intolerant. Cheddar Cheese: Similar to White Cheddar Cheese, this ingredient offers a good amount of protein and calcium but is also high in saturated fat and sodium. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG): This flavor enhancer can cause headaches, flushing, and sweating in some people when consumed in large amounts. Butter: High in saturated fat, which can contribute to high cholesterol and heart disease if consumed in excess. Baking Soda, Yeast: These are common rising agents in baked goods and do not contribute significant nutritional value. Natural and Artificial Flavors: These are widely used in processed foods but they don't add any nutritional value. Some people may experience sensitivity to certain flavorings. Lactic Acid, Calcium Lactate: Lactic acid is a natural preservative, flavoring, and acidity regulator. Calcium lactate is used as a baking powder or sequestrant. Neither raise any major health concern in moderation. Given its high sodium and saturated fat content, low fiber and potential MSG-related side effects, we need to recognize that despite some protein and calcium, this snack should not be a primary food source. Considering all these factors, the nutritional value for Cheez-Its White Cheddar Snack Crackers gets a score as follows: This score denotes a moderate nutritional value as it provides some nutrients but its high sodium, fat content and presence of artificial additives make it less desirable for daily consumption. Consumption should be in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.