Summary of 9 Worst Cheeses To Stay Away From Right Now:
*Summary:
1. Velveeta: Not real cheese but a highly processed cheese product.
2. Kraft Cheez Whiz: Contains added ingredients not allowed in real cheese.
3. Spray Cheese: Overly processed and lacking in nutrients.
4. Old El Paso Cheese Dip: No calcium and lacking in nutrients.
5. Campbell’s Cheese Dip: Contains added ingredients not allowed in real cheese, lacks protein.
6. Tostitos Cheese Dip: Contains real cheese but also labeled as “cheese flavored.”
7. Vegan Cheese Sauce: Not necessarily healthier, high in sodium.
8. Daiya Vegan Sauce: Higher in calories, saturated fat, and sodium compared to real cheese.
Cheese is a versatile and delicious food that adds flavor and richness to a variety of dishes. However, not all cheeses are created equal. While cheese is generally considered a healthy food that provides essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins, there are some cheeses that you should stay away from due to their overly processed nature or lack of nutritional value. In this article, we will explore the nine worst cheeses to avoid and why they should be removed from your diet.
1. Velveeta: Velveeta is not technically a cheese but a “pasteurized recipe cheese product.” It is made from cheese and other dairy ingredients and is heavily processed. It contains emulsifiers, vegetable oil, salt, sugar, and food coloring. Some of these ingredients are not allowed in products sold as real cheese. Instead of opting for Velveeta, choose a slice of good old Cheddar cheese for a more wholesome option.
2. Kraft Cheez Whiz: While the calorie content may seem reasonable, Cheez Whiz is made with added ingredients that are not allowed in real cheese. Consuming this product in larger amounts can lead to a higher calorie, fat, and sodium intake. If you’re looking for a cheesy dip, it’s best to make your own using real American cheese.
3. Spray Cheese: Spray cheese products, available in various flavors, are highly processed and lack nutrients. Instead of relying on these overly processed options, enjoy a tasty grilled cheese BLT sandwich with a slice of Swiss or Cheddar cheese.
4. Old El Paso Cheese Dip: This cheese dip may seem reasonable in terms of calories, but it lacks calcium, an essential nutrient found in real cheese. Opt for nutrient-rich real cheese when enjoying a cheese dip for a healthier choice.
5. Campbell’s Cheese Dip: Although this dip claims to be made from real cheese, it still contains added ingredients that are not allowed in real cheese. Additionally, it lacks protein, whereas one ounce of Cheddar cheese provides 7 grams of protein. Stick with the real deal for a more nutritious option.
6. Tostitos Cheese Dip: While this dip does contain real cheese, it is also labeled as “cheese flavored.” For a healthier alternative, find a quick and easy cheese dip recipe made with your favorite cheese.
7. Vegan Cheese Sauce: Just because a cheese or cheese sauce is vegan doesn’t necessarily mean it’s healthier. Many vegan cheese products contain a multitude of emulsifiers and water as their top ingredient. To get the nutrients you need, opt for a handful of raw cashews or make your own cashew butter flavored with nutritional yeast, a vegan cheese substitute.
8. Daiya Vegan Sauce: Similar to other vegan cheese products, Daiya sauce may be higher in calories, saturated fat, and sodium compared to real cheese. When choosing a cheese sauce, consider the nutritional content and opt for healthier alternatives.
In conclusion, while cheese can be a part of a healthy diet, it’s important to choose real, minimally processed cheeses for optimal nutrition. Avoid overly processed cheese products and opt for nutrient-rich options that provide essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins. By making informed choices, you can enjoy the taste and benefits of cheese while maintaining a well-rounded and nutritious diet.
