Provolone

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

Common questions

Is Provolone healthy?

Provolone scores 78/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This Provolone cheese is a processed product with a relatively clean ingredient list, including pasteurized cow's milk, cheese cultures, and enzymes.

How processed is Provolone?

Provolone is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Provolone's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cheese Cultures counts in its favor; Modified Milk Ingredients is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Provolone

Bowl & Basket
78 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$1.67 · 8 oz · $0.21 / ounce
View on Amazon
Verified Amazon match

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Cheese
Summary

This Provolone cheese is a processed product with a relatively clean ingredient list, including pasteurized cow's milk, cheese cultures, and enzymes. However, the presence of modified milk ingredients indicates a higher level of processing, which slightly reduces its nutritional quality compared to whole milk cheeses. Despite this, the absence of artificial additives and the use of beneficial cheese cultures contribute positively to its overall score.

Key ingredients 8

Cheese Cultures
Good

Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria used in the fermentation process of cheese. They enhance flavor and texture while contributing to gut health. These cultures are essential for traditional cheese-making, promoting a natural fermentation process.

Benefits

Supports gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria and aids in the cheese fermentation process.

See more about Cheese Cultures →
Pasteurized Cow's Milk
Neutral

Pasteurized cow's milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential proteins and fats. The pasteurization process kills harmful bacteria but may reduce some beneficial enzymes. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production, offering a balanced nutritional profile.

Risks

Potential lactose intolerance or milk allergy concerns for some individuals.

Benefits

Provides a good source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health.

See more about Pasteurized Cow's Milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor enhancement and preservation. It is a common ingredient in cheese-making, providing necessary sodium content. While essential, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake may contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and enhances the flavor of cheese.

See more about Salt →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese-making to aid in the coagulation of milk. They are crucial for the development of texture and flavor in cheese. Typically derived from animal or microbial sources, they are standard in cheese production.

Benefits

Essential for the cheese-making process, contributing to texture and flavor development.

See more about Enzymes →
Calcium Chloride
Neutral

Calcium chloride is used in cheese-making to improve curd formation and firmness. It is a common additive in cheese production, enhancing texture. It is generally recognized as safe when used in food processing.

Benefits

Improves curd formation and texture in cheese-making.

See more about Calcium Chloride →
Microbial Enzyme
Neutral

Microbial enzymes are used as an alternative to animal rennet in cheese-making. They facilitate milk coagulation and are suitable for vegetarian cheese products. These enzymes are derived from microbial sources, offering a sustainable option.

Benefits

Suitable for vegetarians and supports sustainable cheese production.

See more about Microbial Enzyme →
Lipase
Neutral

Lipase is an enzyme used to enhance the flavor profile of cheese. It breaks down fats into free fatty acids, contributing to the characteristic taste of certain cheeses. It is a standard ingredient in cheese-making for flavor development.

Benefits

Enhances the flavor profile of cheese by breaking down fats.

See more about Lipase →
Modified Milk Ingredients
Bad

Modified milk ingredients are processed components of milk used to alter texture and consistency. They are often used in processed foods, which may reduce the nutritional quality compared to whole milk. Their use indicates a more processed product.

Risks

May contain additives or undergo processing that reduces nutritional value.

Benefits

Provides a consistent texture and flavor in processed cheese products.

See more about Modified Milk Ingredients →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play
Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

More in Cheese