Spicy Queso
Summary
This product contains several beneficial ingredients like antibiotic-free chicken and aged cheddar cheese, which provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients. However, it is heavily processed, with the inclusion of high oleic sunflower oil and natural flavors, which are considered less healthy due to their processing and potential health impacts. The presence of multiple additives and the high level of processing significantly limit its healthiness despite some positive nutritional aspects.
At a glance
Key ingredients 24
Antibiotic-Free ChickenVery Good
Antibiotic-free chicken is a high-quality protein source that supports muscle growth and repair. It is raised without antibiotics, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance. This ingredient provides essential amino acids and is a cleaner option compared to conventionally raised poultry.
Benefits
Provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth. Raised without antibiotics, promoting better health and reducing antibiotic resistance concerns.
Native Tapioca StarchNeutral
Native tapioca starch is a natural thickening agent derived from cassava root. It is minimally processed and gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. While it provides texture, it offers little nutritional value.
Benefits
Provides a gluten-free thickening option for texture enhancement in foods.
High Oleic Expeller Pressed Sunflower OilVery Bad
High oleic sunflower oil is a seed oil high in monounsaturated fats but still considered unhealthy due to its omega-6 content. The expeller-pressed method is better than chemical extraction, but it remains a processed oil. Excessive consumption may contribute to inflammation.
Risks
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Benefits
Contains monounsaturated fats that can support heart health when consumed in moderation.
Egg WhitesGood
Egg whites are a low-calorie, high-protein ingredient that supports muscle maintenance and repair. They are free from cholesterol and fat, making them a heart-healthy protein source. Egg whites provide essential amino acids without the added fats found in whole eggs.
Benefits
Rich in high-quality protein and essential amino acids, supporting muscle maintenance and repair.
Chicken Bone BrothGood
Chicken bone broth is rich in collagen and minerals that support joint health and digestion. It is made by simmering bones, which extracts nutrients and enhances flavor. This ingredient provides a source of gelatin and amino acids beneficial for gut health.
Benefits
Provides collagen and minerals that support joint health and digestion.
Aged Cheddar CheeseGood
Aged cheddar cheese is a flavorful source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health. Made from pasteurized milk, it undergoes a natural aging process that enhances its taste and nutritional profile. This cheese provides beneficial probiotics and essential nutrients.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and providing beneficial probiotics.
Chipotle PepperGood
Chipotle pepper adds a smoky flavor and contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and reduce inflammation. It is a natural spice that enhances the taste profile of foods. This ingredient provides antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to overall health.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Smoked PaprikaGood
Smoked paprika is a spice that adds depth of flavor and contains antioxidants like vitamin A. It is made from smoked and dried peppers, providing a rich taste without artificial additives. This ingredient enhances flavor while offering some nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Rich in antioxidants like vitamin A, supporting immune health and vision.
Dried Red Pepper SauceNeutral
Dried red pepper sauce adds heat and flavor, made from aged red peppers, vinegar, and salt. It is a natural condiment that enhances taste without significant nutritional impact. While flavorful, it offers minimal health benefits beyond taste enhancement.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Enhances flavor with natural ingredients, adding heat and depth to dishes.
CreamNeutral
Cream is a dairy product that adds richness and texture to foods. It is high in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation. While it enhances flavor, it offers limited nutritional benefits beyond fat content.
Risks
High in saturated fats, which may impact heart health if consumed in excess.
Benefits
Adds richness and texture to foods, enhancing flavor and mouthfeel.
Jalapeno Pepper PowderGood
Jalapeno pepper powder provides heat and contains capsaicin, which may aid in metabolism and pain relief. It is a natural spice that enhances flavor without artificial additives. This ingredient offers antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to overall health.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Yeast ExtractNeutral
Yeast extract is used to enhance flavor, providing umami taste to foods. It is a natural ingredient derived from yeast, often used in small amounts. While it enhances taste, it offers minimal nutritional benefits.
Risks
May contain naturally occurring glutamates, which can cause sensitivity in some individuals.
Benefits
Enhances flavor with natural umami taste, improving overall taste profile.
MilkGood
Milk is a rich source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. It is a natural dairy product that provides essential nutrients like vitamin D and B vitamins. Milk contributes to a balanced diet with its nutritional profile.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Lactic AcidNeutral
Lactic acid is a natural preservative and acidity regulator used in food processing. It is produced through fermentation and helps maintain product stability. While it serves a functional purpose, it offers no significant nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Helps maintain product stability and extends shelf life through natural preservation.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer derived from citrus fruits. It is widely used in food processing to maintain freshness and enhance taste. While functional, it provides no significant nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and preserves freshness in food products.
Natural FlavorsVery Bad
Natural flavors are a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources but can be highly processed. They lack transparency, making it difficult to assess their true nature and health impact. This ingredient is often used to enhance taste without providing nutritional benefits.
Risks
Lack of transparency and potential for hidden allergens or additives.
Smoke FlavorBad
Smoke flavor is an artificial additive used to impart a smoky taste to foods. It is often created through chemical processes, raising concerns about its health impact. While it enhances flavor, it offers no nutritional benefits and may contain unwanted chemicals.
Risks
May contain chemicals from processing that could pose health risks.
SaltNeutral
Salt is a common seasoning that enhances flavor and preserves food. It is essential for bodily functions but should be consumed in moderation to avoid health issues. While it enhances taste, excessive intake can lead to health concerns.
Risks
Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body.
Sea SaltGood
Unrefined sea salt — a minimally processed, natural source of sodium and essential trace minerals, and a legitimate whole-food seasoning. Treated as a positive ingredient.
Risks
Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Contains trace minerals and enhances flavor in foods.
Nonfat MilkGood
Nonfat milk provides protein and calcium without the added fats found in whole milk. It is a low-calorie option that supports bone health and muscle maintenance. This ingredient offers essential nutrients like vitamin D and B vitamins.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance without added fats.
Sodium CitrateNeutral
Sodium citrate is used as an emulsifier and acidity regulator in food products. It helps maintain texture and stability, especially in cheese products. While functional, it provides no significant nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Helps maintain texture and stability in food products.
Paprika ExtractNeutral
Paprika extract is used for coloring and adds a mild flavor to foods. It is derived from paprika peppers and provides a natural alternative to artificial colorings. While it enhances appearance, it offers minimal nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Provides natural coloring and mild flavor enhancement.
SpicesNeutral
Spices are used to enhance flavor and may provide antioxidants and health benefits. They are natural ingredients that add depth and complexity to foods. While beneficial for taste, the specific nutritional impact depends on the types of spices used.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and may provide antioxidants and health benefits.
Acacia GumNeutral
Acacia gum is a natural thickener and stabilizer derived from the acacia tree. It is used to improve texture and consistency in food products. While functional, it offers minimal nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Improves texture and consistency in food products.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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