Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS

Utz
Contains seed oils Bioengineered
1 Poor

Swap it for

Khloud Protein Popcorn Khloud · 1 oz · 18 pack 100 View on Amazon · $49.50 See all Chips & Salty Snacks, ranked

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 11
Owned by Utz Brands
Category Chips & Salty Snacks
Summary

The Baked Cheddar Cheese Balls are heavily penalized due to their use of industrial seed oils, artificial dyes, and multiple processed additives. The presence of ingredients like Yellow #5 and Yellow #6, which are controversial artificial dyes, along with maltodextrin and mono and diglycerides, contributes to a high level of processing. This product's ingredient profile and processing level place it in the ultra-processed category, similar to other low-scoring snacks like Doritos.

Key ingredients 19

Vegetable Oil
Very Bad

Vegetable oil, including cottonseed, corn, canola, sunflower, and safflower oils, is high in omega-6 fatty acids. These oils are highly processed and can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. They are extracted using high heat and chemicals, which can degrade their nutritional quality.

Risks

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation and is linked to various chronic diseases.

See more about Vegetable Oil →
Yellow #6
Very Bad

Yellow #6 is an artificial dye used for coloring. It is petroleum-derived and has been linked to hyperactivity in children. It is banned or requires warning labels in some countries due to potential health risks.

Risks

Linked to hyperactivity and potential allergic reactions.

See more about Yellow #6 →
Yellow #5
Very Bad

Yellow #5 is an artificial dye used for coloring. It is petroleum-derived and has been associated with hyperactivity and allergic reactions. It is banned or requires warning labels in some countries due to potential health risks.

Risks

Linked to hyperactivity and potential allergic reactions.

See more about Yellow #5 →
Maltodextrin
Bad

Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener or filler. It has a high glycemic index, which can spike blood sugar levels. It is often derived from genetically modified corn.

Risks

May cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels and is often derived from GMO sources.

See more about Maltodextrin →
Mono and Diglycerides
Bad

Mono and diglycerides are emulsifiers used to improve texture and shelf life. They are often derived from partially hydrogenated oils, which can contain trans fats. Their processing can introduce unwanted chemical residues.

Risks

May contain trans fats and chemical residues from processing.

See more about Mono and Diglycerides →
Natural Flavor
Bad

Natural flavors are used to enhance taste but are often highly processed. They can contain a variety of chemical compounds and lack transparency. The term 'natural' does not guarantee safety or health benefits.

Risks

Lack of transparency and potential for containing unwanted chemical compounds.

See more about Natural Flavor →
Disodium Phosphate
Bad

Disodium phosphate is used as an emulsifier and stabilizer. It is a synthetic additive that can affect mineral balance in the body. Excessive consumption can lead to imbalances in calcium and phosphorus levels.

Risks

May disrupt mineral balance and contribute to kidney issues if consumed in excess.

See more about Disodium Phosphate →
Autolyzed Yeast Extract
Bad

Autolyzed yeast extract is used as a flavor enhancer and contains free glutamates. It is similar to MSG and can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. It is highly processed and lacks nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause reactions similar to MSG in sensitive individuals.

See more about Autolyzed Yeast Extract →
Disodium Inosinate
Bad

Disodium inosinate is a flavor enhancer often used with MSG. It is a synthetic additive that can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. It is highly processed and lacks nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause reactions similar to MSG in sensitive individuals.

See more about Disodium Inosinate →
Disodium Guanylate
Bad

Disodium guanylate is a flavor enhancer often used with MSG. It is a synthetic additive that can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. It is highly processed and lacks nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause reactions similar to MSG in sensitive individuals.

See more about Disodium Guanylate →
Artificial Flavor
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

Lack of transparency and potential for containing unwanted chemical compounds.

See more about Artificial Flavor →
Corn Meal
Neutral

Corn meal is a basic grain product used as a base for many snacks. It provides carbohydrates but lacks significant nutritional benefits. It is often processed and may lack fiber compared to whole corn.

Risks

May contribute to high glycemic load and is often genetically modified.

Benefits

Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.

See more about Corn Meal →
Whey
Neutral

Whey is a byproduct of cheese production and is a source of protein. It is generally considered a good source of amino acids but is not the primary protein source in this product. It may contain lactose, which can be problematic for those with lactose intolerance.

Risks

May cause digestive issues for those with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

Provides a source of protein and essential amino acids.

See more about Whey →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a seasoning and preservative. It enhances flavor but does not provide significant nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure.

Risks

Excessive intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

See more about Salt →
Buttermilk Solids
Neutral

Buttermilk solids are used for flavor and texture. They are derived from buttermilk and provide a tangy flavor. However, they are used in small amounts and do not contribute significantly to nutrition.

Risks

May contain lactose, which can be problematic for those with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and provides a tangy taste.

See more about Buttermilk Solids →
Lactic Acid
Neutral

Lactic acid is used as a preservative and flavoring agent. It is naturally occurring and generally recognized as safe. It helps to maintain acidity and prevent spoilage.

Benefits

Helps preserve food and maintain acidity.

See more about Lactic Acid →
Cheddar Cheese
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Risks

Contains saturated fats and sodium, which should be consumed in moderation.

Benefits

Provides calcium and protein, contributing to bone health.

See more about Cheddar Cheese →
Milkfat
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Risks

High in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and texture, providing a creamy mouthfeel.

See more about Milkfat →
Whey Protein Concentrate
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Risks

May cause digestive issues for those with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

Provides a source of high-quality protein and essential amino acids.

See more about Whey Protein Concentrate →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Are you Utz? Fix an error Get the badge Get tested

Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price for Khloud Protein Popcorn as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS

Common questions

Is Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS healthy?

Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS scores 1/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the lower scores in Scout's catalog. The Baked Cheddar Cheese Balls are heavily penalized due to their use of industrial seed oils, artificial dyes, and multiple processed additives.

Does Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS contain seed oils?

Yes — Scout's ingredient analysis flags seed oils in Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS, and that is reflected in its score.

How processed is Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS?

Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

How does Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS compare to other chips & salty snacks?

Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS ranks #120 of 129 chips & salty snacks in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is Khloud Protein Popcorn at 100/100.

Which ingredients drive Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cheddar Cheese, Milkfat, Whey Protein Concentrate count in its favor; Vegetable Oil, Maltodextrin, Mono and Diglycerides are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

Healthy alternatives

See more