Better Cheddars nutrition facts: A closer look
When evaluating a snack's nutritional impact, calories are just one piece of the puzzle. The full nutritional panel reveals a more comprehensive picture of what you are consuming. For a single serving (18 crackers) of Better Cheddars, the total calorie count is 160, but it's important to break down where those calories come from.
Macronutrient breakdown
The 160 calories found in a serving of Better Cheddars are composed of a balanced mix of fats, carbohydrates, and protein. Specifically, the nutritional data shows:
- Total Fat: 8g, which accounts for approximately 45% of the calories. This includes 1.5g of saturated fat.
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g, contributing about 48% of the calories. Notably, these crackers have 0g of total and added sugars.
- Protein: 3g, which makes up about 7% of the calories.
This distribution reveals that the crackers are relatively balanced in fat and carbohydrates, with a small amount of protein. The official packaging notes that this product contains a bioengineered food ingredient, and its primary allergens are wheat and milk.
Comparing Better Cheddars to other popular crackers
To put the calorie count of Better Cheddars into context, let's compare it to some other popular cheese crackers. Serving sizes can vary between brands, so a 30g portion is used for consistent comparison.
| Cracker Brand | Serving Size | Calories (approx. per 30g) | Sodium (mg) | Total Fat (g) | Key Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Better Cheddars | 18 crackers | 155-160 | 240-260 | 8 | Mild, distinct cheddar flavor; thin and crisp texture |
| Cheez-It Original | ~27 crackers | ~150 | 230 | 8 | Toasty, pronounced cheddar flavor; thicker square shape |
| Simple Mills Farmhouse Cheddar Almond Flour Crackers | ~17 crackers | ~140 | 270 | 7 | Natural, savory cheddar; made with almond flour |
This comparison shows that Better Cheddars fall into a similar calorie and fat range as Cheez-Its, though with a slightly different flavor profile and texture. Simple Mills offers a comparable gluten-free alternative with a similar calorie profile, but slightly different macronutrient ratios.
What do Better Cheddars' ingredients say about its nutritional value?
An examination of the ingredients offers further insight. The list typically includes unbleached enriched flour, soybean and/or canola oil, cheddar cheese, and salt. While cheddar cheese itself contains beneficial nutrients like calcium and protein, Better Cheddars also rely on processed ingredients common in snack foods. The use of refined oils and enriched flour means the crackers have limited fiber, and some health organizations categorize this type of product as ultra-processed. While fine in moderation, this means they don't offer the same nutritional density as whole foods.
How to enjoy Better Cheddars mindfully
- Portion control: Stick to the recommended serving size of 18 crackers to keep your calorie count on track.
- Pair with healthy options: Complement your snack with protein or fiber, like a slice of low-fat cheese or some vegetables, to make it more filling and balanced.
- Consider low-sodium alternatives: If monitoring sodium intake is a priority, consider the comparison table and look for lower-sodium crackers.
Conclusion
So, how many calories are in Better Cheddars? A standard serving of 18 crackers contains 160 calories, along with 8 grams of fat and 19 grams of carbohydrates. The exact count can differ slightly between product variations and distributors, but the 160-calorie mark is a reliable guideline for the original variety. While these crackers can be a part of a balanced diet, they are best enjoyed in moderation. By paying attention to the serving size and considering the full nutritional context, you can satisfy your craving for this cheesy snack responsibly. For those with specific dietary needs, exploring alternatives like those mentioned in the comparison table might be a beneficial step. For additional context on comparing snack nutrition, resources like the Environmental Working Group's Food Scores can offer detailed analysis.
