Cheese Slices are a processed cheese, made from cheese blended with added salt, emulsifiers and other ingredients, which places it in NOVA group 4. It still provides calcium and protein, but is saltier and more processed than a block of real cheese. They are a source of phosphorus, calcium and vitamin B12. Work out the numbers for any portion and age below, then see the full breakdown.
Processed cheese.
The numbers that matter most here are protein, saturated fat and salt. The tables below set each against age-appropriate guidance.
A matchbox-sized piece (about 20g) provides about 2.8g of protein, supplying amino acids the body needs for growth and repair. Because children need less than adults, that portion covers a large share of a younger child's daily protein.
Cheese Slices are naturally high in fat, at about 4.4g per portion, though most of it is unsaturated. Only around 2.8g is saturated and there is 0g of added fat.
Cheese Slices naturally carries salt from how it is made, at about 0.5g per portion. Children have lower daily salt limits than adults, so it is worth checking against the guidance below and keeping portions modest.
Percentages are share of the daily Nutrient Reference Value (NRV). Under UK and EU rules a food is a source of a nutrient at 15% NRV per 100g and high in it at 30%.
These tables show how the nutrients compare to daily needs across different ages, using UK Reference Nutrient Intakes (RNIs). This differs from the source of and high in labels above, which use the single adult figure (NRV) set for food packaging. Children's needs are lower, so a portion goes further.
Phosphorus works with calcium to build strong bones and teeth. A matchbox-sized piece (about 20g) contains 152mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth. A matchbox-sized piece (about 20g) contains 100mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Vitamin B12 supports red blood cell formation and a healthy nervous system, and is found almost only in animal foods. A matchbox-sized piece (about 20g) contains 0ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Yes. Cheese Slices are a processed dairy product, blended with added salt and other ingredients, which places it in NOVA group 4. A block of plain cheese or a tub of plain butter is far less processed.
Nutrition data from McCance and Widdowson and UK FoodData Central, per 100g raw edible portion; values are reference figures and can vary by variety and ripeness. Reference intakes: EU NRVs for labelling and UK RNIs (SACN) for age-based needs. For guidance only.