Monterey Jack Cheese

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Summary

Monterey Jack Cheese is a processed food with a moderate level of processing, containing pasteurized milk and cheese culture, which are beneficial for nutrition and flavor. However, the presence of cellulose powder and natamycin as additives indicates a higher processing level, which slightly detracts from its overall healthiness. Despite these additives, the cheese maintains a relatively clean ingredient list compared to more heavily processed products.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Berkshire Hathaway
Category Cheese

Key ingredients 8

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 serves as a base for cheese production, contributing to its nutritional profile.

Benefits

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

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Cheese culture
Good

Cheese culture is used to ferment milk, aiding in the development of flavor and texture in cheese. It consists of beneficial bacteria that can improve gut health. The fermentation process enhances the digestibility of the cheese.

Benefits

Contains probiotics that may support digestive health.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese making to enhance flavor and act as a preservative. It helps control the growth of unwanted bacteria during fermentation. While essential in moderation, excessive intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for flavor and preservation in cheese production.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are crucial in cheese making, aiding in the coagulation of milk. They help develop the texture and flavor of the cheese. Typically derived from animal or microbial sources, they are essential for cheese production.

Benefits

Facilitates the cheese-making process by aiding milk coagulation.

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Potato starch
Neutral

Potato starch is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent cheese shreds from sticking together. It is a natural carbohydrate derived from potatoes. While it serves a functional purpose, it does not add nutritional value.

Benefits

Helps maintain the texture of shredded cheese by preventing clumping.

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Starch
Neutral

Starch is used similarly to potato starch as an anti-caking agent in cheese. It is a carbohydrate that helps maintain the texture of the product. It does not contribute significant nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Prevents clumping in shredded cheese, maintaining texture.

Cellulose powder
Bad

Cellulose powder is used as an anti-caking agent in shredded cheese. It is derived from plant fibers and is considered a processed additive. While generally recognized as safe, it adds no nutritional value and is a sign of processing.

Risks

May indicate a higher level of processing and can be a concern for those seeking minimally processed foods.

Benefits

Helps prevent clumping in shredded cheese, maintaining texture.

Natamycin
Bad

Natamycin is a preservative used to prevent mold growth on cheese. It is a natural antifungal agent but is still considered an additive. Its use indicates a higher level of processing in the product.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and indicates processing.

Benefits

Prevents spoilage by inhibiting mold growth, extending shelf life.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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