Sunshine Cheez-It Original Crackers: Nutritional Facts, Ingredients & Healthy Snack Ideas

Sunshine Cheez-It Original Crackers: Nutritional Breakdown and Ingredient Information

Sunshine Cheez-It Original Crackers offer a convenient, crunchy snack that satisfies your cravings while delivering a flavorful experience. These iconic, cheese-flavored crackers are a beloved treat for all ages, perfect for pairing with dips, enjoying solo, or adding to various recipes. Let’s explore the essential nutritional components and ingredient breakdown of these crackers to better understand their contribution to your diet.

Nutritional Information (per 100g serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Energy	507 kcal
Protein	11.4 g
Total Fat	26.3 g
Saturated Fat	6.1 g
Carbohydrates	57.4 g
Dietary Fiber	2.4 g
Sugars	0.5 g
Calcium	147 mg
Iron	3.9 mg
Magnesium	15 mg
Phosphorus	63 mg
Potassium	97 mg
Sodium	753 mg
Zinc	0.7 mg
Copper	0.0 mcg
Manganese	0.0 mg
Selenium	0.0 mcg
Vitamin C	0.0 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.54 mg
Riboflavin (B2)	0.33 mg
Niacin (B3)	4.4 mg
Vitamin B6	0.03 mg
Folate	0.0 mcg
Vitamin B12	0.0 mcg
Vitamin A	100 mcg
Vitamin E	0.0 mg
Vitamin D2	0.0 mcg

Ingredient List

Sunshine Cheez-It Original Crackers are made with carefully selected ingredients to deliver that unmistakable crispy texture and cheesy flavor. Here’s an overview of the key ingredients that make up these popular crackers:

Enriched Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate [Vitamin B1], Riboflavin [Vitamin B2], Folic Acid)
Vegetable Oils (Palm and Canola Oil)
Cheddar Cheese (Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Enzymes)
Salt
Sugar
Yeast Extract
Spices (including Paprika, Garlic Powder)
Whey
Lactic Acid
Artificial Color (Yellow 6, Yellow 5)

Allergen Information

Sunshine Cheez-It Original Crackers contain several common allergens. Consumers should be aware of the following:

Wheat (Gluten)
Milk (Dairy)

These crackers are not suitable for individuals with a gluten intolerance or dairy allergies. Be sure to check ingredient labels for any updates or changes.

Dietary Preferences

Vegetarian-Friendly: Yes, the crackers are suitable for vegetarians as they do not contain any animal-derived ingredients other than dairy.
Not Vegan: Contains dairy-based ingredients like cheese and whey, making them unsuitable for a vegan diet.
Not Gluten-Free: Contains wheat flour, so they are not appropriate for those following a gluten-free diet.

Nutritional Insights and Health Considerations

While Sunshine Cheez-It Original Crackers are a delicious snack, it’s important to consider their nutritional content when incorporating them into your diet. Here’s a deeper look at some of the key nutrients:

Energy and Fats: With 507 kcal per 100g, these crackers are energy-dense. The crackers contain a relatively high amount of fat (26.3g per 100g), of which 6.1g is saturated fat. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, this is an essential factor to keep in mind. Saturated fats should be consumed in moderation to maintain heart health.
Carbohydrates: At 57.4g of carbs per 100g, the crackers are a moderate source of energy from carbohydrates. With 2.4g of dietary fiber, they provide some beneficial fiber, which aids digestion.
Protein: At 11.4g per 100g, these crackers offer a moderate amount of protein. Though not as high in protein as some other snacks, they can contribute to meeting your daily protein needs.
Minerals: Sunshine Cheez-It crackers are a good source of several essential minerals:
- Calcium: At 147 mg per 100g, they offer a fair amount of calcium, which supports bone health.
- Iron: With 3.9 mg of iron, these crackers can help contribute to your daily iron intake, essential for oxygen transport and overall vitality.
- Magnesium and Phosphorus: Both magnesium (15 mg) and phosphorus (63 mg) are present in moderate amounts, contributing to bone and muscle health.
Sodium: These crackers are quite high in sodium, with 753 mg per 100g. Individuals watching their sodium intake, particularly those with high blood pressure or heart conditions, should consume them in moderation.
Vitamins: A notable feature of Sunshine Cheez-It Original Crackers is their inclusion of vitamin A (100 mcg per 100g), which supports immune function and eye health. However, they do not provide significant amounts of Vitamin C, Vitamin D, or B12.

Serving Suggestions and Usage

Sunshine Cheez-It Original Crackers are versatile, adding a crispy texture and cheesy flavor to various dishes. Here are some creative ways to use them:

Snacking: Enjoy them straight from the box for a quick snack. Pair with your favorite dips, such as hummus, ranch dressing, or cheese spreads.
Salad Topping: Crush the crackers and sprinkle them on top of your salad for added crunch and flavor.
Casseroles and Bakes: Use crushed Cheez-Its as a topping for casseroles or baked dishes, such as macaroni and cheese or baked chicken.
Party Platter: Include them in a snack platter with fruits, nuts, and dips at your next gathering.

Conclusion

Sunshine Cheez-It Original Crackers are a delicious snack that combines convenience, crunch, and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or incorporating them into a larger recipe, they offer a satisfying experience. Keep in mind their nutritional profile, especially the high sodium and fat content, and enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.