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Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.
At a glance
Summary
This Pepper Jack Cheese is made with a simple and clean ingredient list, including pasteurized cultured milk, peppers, and microbial enzymes, which are typical for traditional cheese. The product is processed but does not contain any harmful additives or seed oils, allowing it to score well within its category. The presence of jalapeno and red bell peppers adds flavor without compromising the overall quality of the cheese.
Key ingredients 6
Pasteurized cultured milkGood
Pasteurized cultured milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential proteins and fats. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria while maintaining nutritional value. Culturing enhances flavor and digestibility.
Benefits
Rich in high-quality proteins and fats, supporting muscle health and providing energy. Contains calcium and other nutrients beneficial for bone health.
Morobial rennetNeutral
Morobial rennet is used to coagulate milk in cheese production, facilitating curd formation. It is a microbial enzyme alternative to animal rennet, suitable for vegetarian products. The use of microbial rennet does not significantly alter the nutritional profile of cheese.
Benefits
Allows for cheese production without animal-derived rennet, making it suitable for vegetarians.
Jalapeno peppersNeutral
Jalapeno peppers add a spicy flavor to the cheese, enhancing its taste profile. They are a natural ingredient with minimal processing. The quantity used in cheese is typically small, contributing more to flavor than nutrition.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals due to capsaicin content.
Benefits
Adds flavor and a small amount of vitamins and antioxidants, though not significant in the quantities used.
Red bell peppersNeutral
Red bell peppers provide a sweet flavor and color to the cheese. They are minimally processed and retain some nutritional value. However, the amount used in cheese is usually small, limiting their nutritional impact.
Benefits
Contains vitamins and antioxidants, though benefits are minimal in the small amounts used.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in cheese for flavor and as a preservative. It is a common ingredient in cheese production, contributing to taste and shelf life. The amount of salt can affect sodium intake, which should be monitored.
Risks
Excessive consumption may lead to high sodium intake, which is associated with increased blood pressure.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative, extending the product's shelf life.
Microbial enzymesNeutral
Microbial enzymes are used in cheese production to aid in milk coagulation. They are an alternative to animal-derived enzymes, suitable for vegetarians. These enzymes do not significantly alter the nutritional profile of the cheese.
Benefits
Facilitates cheese production without animal-derived enzymes, making it suitable for vegetarians.
Processing
Processed Foods
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