Rich in calcium, vitamin D, and featuring a very short list of ingredients, this industrial cheese, which sometimes gets a bad reputation, is actually quite beneficial for your health. Discover the insights from a doctor.
Not all supermarket cheeses have the same nutritional qualities. While some are well-composed, others can be quite high in preservatives, saturated fats, or salt. To successfully choose the right products, it is important to look beyond the Nutri-Score and examine the list of ingredients in detail. Ideally, in the case of cheeses, the ingredient list should be as short as possible and include easily recognizable names, such as milk or lactic ferments. The order of ingredients is also crucial, as the higher an ingredient appears on the list, the greater its proportion in the product.
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In a video shared on his social media, nutritionist Jean-Michel Cohen discusses the composition of a supermarket cheese that is immensely popular among children: Ficello. These cheese sticks, despite resembling a highly processed or “chemical” product, have an excellent composition. The doctor elaborates on the ingredients of this product and explains why it makes an excellent snack.
This supermarket cheese, highly favored by children, boasts an impressive composition.
The doctor examined the composition of Ficello Emmental Cheese Sticks. The first three ingredients listed are “pasteurized milk, Emmental cheese, and an acidity regulator.” Following these are a coagulant, ferments, and vitamin D. This is a very short list, fully endorsed by the specialist. “I am impressed,” remarks Jean-Michel Cohen.
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Jean-Michel Cohen also points out that these cheeses provide an interesting source of calcium: 164 mg per 100 grams of the product, which represents 20% of the recommended daily intake. In terms of calories, there are 64 kcal in a 20-gram stick, making it a relatively low-calorie option. The only drawback is the price, which is somewhat high considering the amount of cheese in the bag: approximately 2.45€ per pack (at Carrefour), or 29.17€/KG.
What types of cheese should you choose in the supermarket?
If you are looking for cheeses that are high in protein, choose cottage cheese, Emmental, Parmesan, or mozzarella. For a cheese high in calcium, Gruyere, Emmental, Abondance, or Comté are excellent choices. If you are focused on weight loss and desire a low-calorie cheese, consider Cancoillotte, ricotta, mozzarella, or feta.
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As with any food, it is important to consume cheese in moderation, with a recommended daily amount of 30 to 50 grams, depending on your nutritional needs and body type. Don’t hesitate to diversify your dairy consumption, for instance by eating different types of yogurt. Additionally, be aware that other foods are also rich in calcium (such as legumes, nuts, and green leafy vegetables) and proteins.
Head of beauty/fitness/nutrition sections
After working for the Marie Claire and Prisma Media groups, Inès joined aufeminin in April 2022. Responsible for the beauty, fitness, and nutrition sections, she enjoys decoding the latest trends…
Why Ficello Cheese is a Healthy Snack: What a Doctor Says
Rich in calcium, vitamin D, and with a very short list of ingredients, this industrial cheese that sometimes has a bad reputation is actually very good for your health. Discover the explanations of a doctor.
Understanding the Nutritional Quality of Supermarket Cheese
Not all supermarket cheeses are equal when it comes to nutritional values. While some options boast beneficial compositions, others can be loaded with preservatives, saturated fats, or salt which may not be ideal for daily consumption. Thus, opting for the right cheese requires a careful look beyond just the Nutri-Score. It is crucial to examine the list of ingredients in detail. In the case of cheese, a shorter ingredient list with recognizable names—like milk or lactic ferments—is preferred. Additionally, the order of ingredients is vital: ingredients that appear first in the list make up a larger portion of the product.
Ficello Emmental Cheese Sticks: A Closer Look
In a recent video, nutritionist Jean-Michel Cohen evaluated Ficello Emmental Cheese Sticks, a favorite among children. Contrary to their processed appearance, he highlighted that they have an excellent composition. The ingredients prominently include: pasteurized milk, Emmental cheese, and an acidity regulator. Following these, there are a coagulant, ferments, and vitamin D. Its concise list has been validated by the specialist, who praised its beneficial qualities.
Calcium Content and Nutritional Benefits
Notably, these cheese sticks provide a significant source of calcium: 164 mg per 100 grams of product, which accounts for 20% of the recommended daily intake. For reference, each 20-gram stick has only 64 kcal, making it a relatively low-calorie snack option. However, it’s worth noting that pricewise, they can be on the higher end—about €2.45 per pack or €29.17 per kg at Carrefour.
Choosing Healthy Cheeses at the Supermarket
Cheese Options Based on Nutritional Needs
When shopping for cheese, consider your specific dietary goals:
- High in Protein: Look for cottage cheese, Emmental, Parmesan, or mozzarella.
- Rich in Calcium: Gruyere, Emmental, Abondance, or Comté are great choices.
- Low-Calorie Options: Cancoillotte, ricotta, mozzarella, or feta are suitable for weight management.
Portion Control is Key
As with any food, moderation is essential. Aim for a daily intake of 30 to 50 grams of cheese, adjusted according to your dietary needs and lifestyle. It’s wise to diversify your dairy consumption; differents types of yogurt can also contribute to your overall nutrition. Keep in mind that other food sources rich in calcium include legumes, nuts, and leafy green vegetables.
Benefits of Cheese in Your Diet
Incorporating cheese into a balanced diet allows you to reap various health benefits:
- Bone Health: The calcium found in cheese is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Muscle Maintenance: Protein-rich cheeses support muscle recovery and growth.
- Snacking Smart: Cheese can serve as a satisfying snack alternative to junk food.
Practical Tips for Cheese Lovers
Here are some practical tips to make the most out of your cheese consumption:
- Read Labels: Always check the ingredient list for quality sources.
- Pair Wisely: Combine cheese with whole-grain bread or fruits for added nutrition.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try different cheese types to find new favorites.
Case Studies: Customer Favorites
Here are a few case studies that highlight customer favorites in cheese:
| Brand | Cheese Type | Nutritional Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Ficello | Emmental Sticks | 20% daily calcium per stick |
| Cottage Delight | Cottage Cheese | High protein, low fat |
| President | Comté Cheese | Rich in calcium and flavorful |
First-Hand Experience: Parents’ Perspectives
Parents often share how introducing healthier cheese options like Ficello has positively impacted their children’s snacking habits. Many report that these cheeses not only satisfy cravings but also contribute significantly to their kids’ calcium intake. With creative presentations, children are learning to enjoy cheese as part of a balanced diet, showing that nutritious choices can be appealing too!
In conclusion, understanding the nutritional profile of supermarket cheeses, particularly options like Ficello, enables consumers to make informed dietary choices. As with any food, moderation, transparency in ingredients, and diversifying your intake play crucial roles in a healthy diet. Enjoy your cheese while prioritizing your health!
