Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese Blend

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese Blend healthy?

Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese Blend scores 68/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This shredded cheese blend contains natural cheeses with minimal processing, providing a good source of calcium and protein.

How processed is Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese Blend?

Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese Blend is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese Blend's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Jalapeño Jack Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese, Habanero Jack Cheese count in its favor; Natamycin is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

More from Trader Joe's

See more

Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese Blend

Trader Joe's
68 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

Near you

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

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Trader Joe's
Category Cheese
Summary

This shredded cheese blend contains natural cheeses with minimal processing, providing a good source of calcium and protein. However, the presence of natamycin as a mold inhibitor and anti-caking agents like potato starch and cellulose powder indicates a processed product. While these additives are not harmful in small amounts, they contribute to the product's processing level, which limits its score.

Key ingredients 8

Jalapeño Jack Cheese
Good

Jalapeño Jack Cheese is a flavorful cheese made from cultured pasteurized milk and jalapeño peppers. The use of microbial enzymes and natural peppers enhances its taste without artificial additives. It provides a good source of calcium and protein.

Risks

Contains dairy, which may be a concern for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.

Monterey Jack Cheese
Good

Monterey Jack Cheese is a mild, semi-soft cheese made from pasteurized milk. It is a traditional cheese with minimal processing and no artificial additives. This cheese is a good source of calcium and protein.

Risks

May cause issues for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein, beneficial for bone and muscle health.

See more about Monterey Jack Cheese →
Habanero Jack Cheese
Good

Habanero Jack Cheese combines pasteurized milk with habanero peppers for a spicy flavor. It uses natural ingredients and microbial enzymes, avoiding artificial additives. This cheese is rich in calcium and protein.

Risks

Potential allergen for those sensitive to dairy; spicy peppers may cause discomfort for some individuals.

Benefits

Offers calcium and protein, essential for maintaining healthy bones and muscles.

Potato Starch
Neutral

Potato starch is used as an anticaking agent to prevent clumping in shredded cheese. It is a natural carbohydrate derived from potatoes. While it serves a functional purpose, it does not contribute significant nutritional value.

See more about Potato Starch →
Cellulose Powder
Neutral

Cellulose powder is a plant-derived fiber used as an anticaking agent. It helps maintain the texture of shredded cheese by preventing clumping. It is generally recognized as safe but does not provide nutritional benefits.

See more about Cellulose Powder →
Acetic Acid
Neutral

Acetic acid is used as a preservative and flavoring agent in food products. It is a natural component of vinegar and is generally recognized as safe. It contributes to the tangy flavor profile of the cheese.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a natural preservative.

See more about Acetic Acid →
Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural acidifier used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is commonly found in citrus fruits and is used to maintain freshness. While it serves a functional purpose, it does not provide nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Acts as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer.

See more about Citric Acid →
Natamycin
Bad

Natamycin is a mold inhibitor used to extend the shelf life of cheese. It is a natural antifungal agent but is considered an additive. While effective in preventing spoilage, its presence indicates a processed product.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Helps prevent mold growth, extending the product's shelf life.

See more about Natamycin →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Cheese