Why does Parmigiano reggiano have a Nutri‑Score of D, and which nutrients drive this rating?

The D rating is mainly caused by its high saturated‑fat (20 g per 100 g) and high salt (1.6 g per 100 g), which generate many negative points in the Nutri‑Score algorithm, outweighing the positive points from its very high protein content.

How do the saturated‑fat and salt levels in Parmigiano reggiano affect a hypertensive or heart‑healthy diet?

The cheese’s saturated‑fat and salt are above average for dairy products, so regular consumption can raise LDL cholesterol and blood pressure; people managing hypertension or cardiovascular risk should limit portions and balance it with low‑fat, low‑salt foods.

Is the milk in Parmigiano reggiano a concern for lactose‑intolerant or milk‑allergic individuals?

Although the long aging process reduces lactose to trace amounts, the cheese still contains milk proteins, so it is safe for most lactose‑intolerant people but remains a potential allergen for anyone with a milk allergy.

Giovanni Ferrari • 140 g

Parmigiano reggiano

Milk And Dairy Products

Product Insights

Parmigiano reggiano is a hard Italian cheese made from cow’s milk, classified under the Milk and dairy products group. It carries a Nutri‑Score of D and belongs to NOVA group 3, reflecting its moderate processing and a nutritional profile that is high in protein and energy but also high in fat, saturated fat and salt. While it provides 32 g of protein per 100 g and contains no added sugars, its fat (30 g), saturated fat (20 g) and salt (1.6 g) levels are above average for cheeses, and it lists milk as an allergen.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

low

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal402 kcal

Fat30 g

Saturated Fat20 g

Carbohydrates0 g

Sugars0 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with typical cheese averages, Parmigiano reggiano contains more fat (30 g vs 25.0 g), more saturated fat (20 g vs 15.3 g) and higher energy (402 kcal vs 323 kcal), but it offers less sugar (0 g vs 1.8 g), lower salt (1.6 g vs 3.3 g) and substantially more protein (32 g vs 20.3 g).

Ingredients

Lait, sel, présure

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Parmigiano reggiano.

Giovanni Ferrari

150 g