Parmesan cheese

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Common questions

Is Parmesan cheese healthy?

Parmesan cheese scores 80/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This Parmesan cheese is made from pasteurized organic milk and cheese cultures, providing a high-quality source of protein and calcium.

How processed is Parmesan cheese?

Parmesan cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Parmesan cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Parmesan cheese counts in its favor; Powdered cellulose 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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Parmesan cheese

Simple Truth Organic
80 Good

Analysis updated October 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

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

This Parmesan cheese is made from pasteurized organic milk and cheese cultures, providing a high-quality source of protein and calcium. However, the addition of powdered cellulose as an anti-caking agent indicates a level of processing that slightly detracts from its whole food quality. Despite this, the product remains a nutritious option with minimal additives.

Key ingredients 2

Parmesan cheese
Good

Parmesan cheese is a high-quality source of protein and calcium, beneficial for bone health. Made from pasteurized organic milk, it provides essential nutrients and is free from artificial additives. The fermentation process enhances its digestibility and flavor profile.

Risks

High sodium content may pose a risk for individuals with hypertension or those on a low-sodium diet.

Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting muscle and bone health. Contains beneficial probiotics from cheese cultures that may aid digestion.

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Powdered cellulose
Bad

Powdered cellulose is used as an anti-caking agent, which is a processed additive. It is derived from plant fibers but offers no nutritional benefits. Its presence indicates a level of processing that may not align with whole food principles.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals when consumed in large amounts.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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