Queso

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

Common questions

Is Queso healthy?

Queso scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cheese product is made from pasteurized whole cow's milk, salt, enzymes, and cultures, which are all traditional and minimally processed ingredients for cheese-making.

How processed is Queso?

Queso is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Queso's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized grade A whole cow's milk, Culture count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Queso

Rancherito Supremo
75 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by V&V Supremo Foods, Inc.
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheese product is made from pasteurized whole cow's milk, salt, enzymes, and cultures, which are all traditional and minimally processed ingredients for cheese-making. The absence of artificial additives and seed oils contributes positively to its health profile. However, as a processed food, its score is capped, but it remains a high-quality option within its category due to its clean ingredient list and traditional preparation methods.

Key ingredients 4

Pasteurized grade A whole cow's milk
Good

Whole cow's milk is a rich source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria while retaining nutritional value. Compared to plant-based alternatives, it provides a more complete amino acid profile.

Risks

Some individuals may be lactose intolerant or allergic to cow's milk proteins.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and high-quality protein that support bone health and muscle function.

Culture
Good

Cultures are beneficial bacteria used in cheese-making to ferment lactose and develop flavor. They are natural and contribute to the probiotic content of cheese. Compared to cheeses without cultures, they offer potential digestive benefits.

Benefits

Contributes to flavor development and may provide probiotic benefits for gut health.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in cheese. It is a common culinary ingredient that helps in the cheese aging process. While necessary for flavor, excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

Excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese production.

See more about Salt →
Enzymes
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Benefits

Essential for cheese production, contributing to texture and flavor development.

See more about Enzymes →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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