KROGER, MOZZARELLA CHEESE
Summary
This mozzarella cheese is made from pasteurized part-skim milk and cheese culture, which are beneficial ingredients providing essential nutrients and minimal processing. However, the presence of dextrose and natamycin indicates additional processing and unnecessary additives. The product's processing level limits its score, despite having some redeeming qualities.
At a glance
Key ingredients 10
Pasteurized part-skim milkGood
This is the primary ingredient in mozzarella cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Part-skim milk helps reduce fat content while maintaining nutritional value.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cheese cultureGood
Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria used in the fermentation process, essential for developing flavor and texture in cheese. They contribute to the probiotic content, which can support gut health. The use of traditional cultures indicates minimal processing.
Benefits
May support digestive health through probiotic activity.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used for flavor enhancement and preservation in cheese. It is a common ingredient in cheese production, contributing to taste and shelf life. However, excessive sodium intake can be a health concern.
Risks
High sodium intake may contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.
EnzymesNeutral
Enzymes are used in cheese making to coagulate milk, forming curds. They are essential for the cheese production process but do not contribute significant nutritional value. The use of enzymes is standard in cheese making.
Benefits
Essential for the cheese-making process, aiding in curd formation.
Calcium chlorideNeutral
Calcium chloride is used in cheese making to improve curd formation and firmness. It is a common additive in cheese production, ensuring consistent texture. It does not significantly impact nutritional value.
Benefits
Improves curd firmness and texture in cheese production.
Potato starchNeutral
Potato starch is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent cheese shreds from sticking together. It is a natural additive with minimal processing. It does not contribute significant nutritional value.
Benefits
Helps maintain product quality by preventing clumping.
Corn starchNeutral
Corn starch is used similarly to potato starch as an anti-caking agent. It is a common food additive with minimal processing. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Prevents clumping and maintains product quality.
DextroseBad
Dextrose is a simple sugar used as a sweetener and preservative. It can contribute to increased blood sugar levels and is not necessary in cheese. Its presence indicates additional processing.
Risks
May contribute to elevated blood sugar levels and is not essential in cheese.
Calcium sulfateNeutral
Calcium sulfate is used as a firming agent and anti-caking agent in cheese. It is a common additive that helps maintain texture. It does not significantly impact nutritional value.
Benefits
Helps maintain texture and prevents clumping.
NatamycinBad
Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor used to extend shelf life. While it is effective in preventing spoilage, its use indicates additional processing. It is generally recognized as safe but unnecessary in traditional cheese making.
Risks
May indicate additional processing and is not essential for traditional cheese.
Benefits
Prevents mold growth, extending product shelf life.
Processing
Processed Foods
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