Near you
Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.
At a glance
Summary
This sliced sharp cheddar cheese is made from pasteurized milk, cultures, salt, microbial enzymes, and annatto, which are typical ingredients for cheese. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to its packaging and processing level, which limits its score. Despite having a clean ingredient list with minimal additives, the processing level prevents it from achieving a higher rating.
Key ingredients 5
CulturesGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Benefits
Contributes to the development of flavor and texture in cheese, enhancing its sensory qualities.
Pasteurized milkNeutral
Pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process eliminates harmful bacteria but may reduce some beneficial enzymes. It is a standard component in cheese production, offering a balanced nutritional profile.
Benefits
Provides essential nutrients such as calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle maintenance.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in cheese for flavor enhancement and as a preservative. It helps control moisture and microbial growth during aging. While necessary for cheese production, excessive consumption of salt can lead to health issues.
Risks
Excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative, aiding in the cheese aging process.
Microbial enzymesNeutral
Microbial enzymes are used to coagulate milk, replacing traditional animal rennet. They are essential for cheese production, especially in vegetarian-friendly products. These enzymes are derived from microbial sources, ensuring consistent cheese quality.
Benefits
Facilitates the cheese-making process by coagulating milk, suitable for vegetarian diets.
AnnattoNeutral
Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange hue. It is minimally processed and generally considered safe. Annatto does not impact the flavor or nutritional value of the cheese.
Risks
In rare cases, annatto may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides natural color to cheese without affecting its flavor or nutritional content.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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