Trader Joe's Shredded Unexpected Cheddar Cheese

Common questions

Is Trader Joe's Shredded Unexpected Cheddar Cheese healthy?

Trader Joe's Shredded Unexpected Cheddar Cheese scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cheese product contains high-quality cheddar cheese, which provides protein and calcium, but it is classified as ultra-processed due to the inclusion of an anti-caking agent.

How processed is Trader Joe's Shredded Unexpected Cheddar Cheese?

Trader Joe's Shredded Unexpected Cheddar Cheese is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Trader Joe's Shredded Unexpected Cheddar Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cheddar cheese counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Trader Joe's Shredded Unexpected Cheddar Cheese

Trader Joe's
65 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$12.95 · 6 oz · $2.16 / ounce
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Near you

Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Trader Joe's
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheese product contains high-quality cheddar cheese, which provides protein and calcium, but it is classified as ultra-processed due to the inclusion of an anti-caking agent. The presence of powdered cellulose, while not harmful, indicates additional processing to maintain texture. Despite its nutritional benefits, the processing level limits its score.

Key ingredients 2

Cheddar cheese
Good

Cheddar cheese is a source of high-quality protein and calcium, essential for bone health. It is made from pasteurized milk and cheese cultures, which are minimally processed. The presence of microbial enzyme indicates a traditional cheese-making process.

Risks

Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.

See more about Cheddar cheese →
Powdered cellulose
Neutral

Powdered cellulose is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping in shredded cheese. It is derived from plant fibers and is considered safe for consumption. It does not contribute significant nutritional value.

See more about Powdered cellulose →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Amazon pricing & content

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