Natural Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese

H-E-B
75 Good
$4.97 · 16 oz
View on Amazon
Verified Amazon match

Summary

This cheese product contains high-quality ingredients like cultured pasteurized milk, which provides essential nutrients such as calcium and protein. However, it includes powdered cellulose as an anti-caking agent, which is a processed additive without nutritional benefits. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the overall clean ingredient list.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Cheese

Key ingredients 6

Cultured Pasteurized Milk
Good

Cultured pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Culturing enhances flavor and digestibility.

Benefits

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

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese making to enhance flavor and act as a preservative. It helps control the fermentation process and moisture content. While necessary, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Essential for flavor development and preservation in cheese.

See more about Salt →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese production to coagulate milk, forming curds. They are crucial for texture and flavor development. Typically derived from animal or microbial sources, they are generally safe.

Benefits

Facilitates the cheese-making process, contributing to texture and flavor.

See more about Enzymes →
Annatto Color
Neutral

Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to give cheese its characteristic yellow hue. It is considered safe and is a traditional coloring agent. Minimal processing is involved in its extraction.

Risks

Rare allergic reactions have been reported in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides natural color without synthetic additives.

See more about Annatto Color →
Potato Starch
Neutral

Potato starch is used to prevent cheese slices from sticking together. It is a natural carbohydrate extracted from potatoes. While it serves a functional purpose, it does not contribute significant nutritional value.

Benefits

Helps maintain product quality by preventing clumping.

See more about Potato Starch →
Powdered Cellulose
Bad

Powdered cellulose is used as an anti-caking agent in shredded cheese products. It is derived from plant fibers and is considered safe in small amounts. However, it is a processed additive that does not provide nutritional benefits.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to digestive issues due to its fiber content.

Benefits

Prevents clumping and maintains texture in shredded cheese.

See more about Powdered Cellulose →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout app

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

Download on theApp Store