KROGER, MEDIUM CHEDDAR

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Common questions

Is KROGER, MEDIUM CHEDDAR healthy?

KROGER, MEDIUM CHEDDAR scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cheddar cheese is made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color.

How processed is KROGER, MEDIUM CHEDDAR?

KROGER, MEDIUM CHEDDAR is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive KROGER, MEDIUM CHEDDAR's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized milk, Cheese culture count in its favor; En:e160b is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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KROGER, MEDIUM CHEDDAR

Kroger
70 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Kroger
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheddar cheese is made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color. While it contains beneficial nutrients like protein and calcium, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the use of annatto and its processing level. Despite its good nutritional profile, the processing level limits its score.

Key ingredients 6

Pasteurized milk
Good

Pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production, contributing to the nutritional profile of the product.

Benefits

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

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Cheese culture
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Contributes to the development of flavor and texture in cheese.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor enhancement and as a preservative. It is a common ingredient in cheese-making, helping to control moisture and bacterial growth. While necessary for cheese production, excessive consumption of salt can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese-making to coagulate milk, forming curds and whey. They are essential for the cheese-making process, contributing to the texture and consistency of the final product. Typically derived from animal or microbial sources, they are safe for consumption.

Benefits

Essential for coagulating milk and forming cheese curds.

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Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to give cheddar its characteristic orange hue. It is considered safe and is commonly used in food products. Annatto does not affect the flavor or nutritional value of the cheese.

Benefits

Provides natural color without affecting flavor or nutrition.

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En:e160b
Bad

En:e160b refers to annatto extract, used as a coloring agent in foods. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or intolerance. It is a processed additive, which can be a concern for those seeking minimally processed foods.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions or intolerance in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides color to food products without synthetic dyes.

See more about En:e160b →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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