H-E-B Mild Cheddar
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This mild cheddar cheese contains beneficial nutrients like high-quality protein and calcium from cultured pasteurized milk. However, it includes several synthetic additives such as anticaking agents, natamycin, and mold inhibitors, which contribute to its processing level. These additives, while extending shelf life, are not essential for all cheese types and detract from the product's overall healthiness.
Key ingredients 12
Mild Cheddar CheeseGood
Mild Cheddar Cheese is a source of high-quality protein and calcium. It is made from cultured pasteurized milk, providing essential nutrients. The cheese is minimally processed, retaining its nutritional benefits.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cultured Pasteurized MilkNeutral
Cultured pasteurized milk is used to make cheese, providing a base for fermentation. Pasteurization ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production.
Benefits
Provides a source of calcium and protein, essential for bone and muscle health.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used for flavor and as a preservative in cheese. It is a common ingredient in cheese production. Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure.
Risks
High sodium intake may contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.
EnzymesNeutral
Enzymes are used in cheese making to aid in the coagulation of milk. They are essential for the cheese production process. Typically derived from microbial or animal sources.
Benefits
Facilitates the cheese-making process by aiding milk coagulation.
MicrobialNeutral
Microbial enzymes are used as a vegetarian alternative to animal rennet in cheese production. They help in the coagulation of milk. This ingredient is essential for cheese texture and flavor development.
Benefits
Provides a vegetarian-friendly option for cheese production.
AnnattoNeutral
Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange color. It is considered safe and natural.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides natural coloring without synthetic additives.
ColorNeutral
Color is added to enhance the visual appeal of cheese. It is typically derived from natural sources like annatto. The use of color does not affect the nutritional value of the cheese.
Benefits
Improves the visual appeal of the product.
Potato StarchNeutral
Potato starch is used as an anticaking agent in shredded cheese. It is a natural ingredient that helps prevent clumping. It does not significantly alter the nutritional profile of the cheese.
Benefits
Helps maintain the texture and usability of shredded cheese.
Tapioca StarchNeutral
Tapioca starch is used as an anticaking agent in cheese. It is derived from the cassava root and is considered a natural additive. It helps maintain the texture of shredded cheese.
Benefits
Prevents clumping and maintains the texture of shredded cheese.
Anticaking BlendBad
Anticaking agents are added to prevent clumping in shredded cheese. They are often synthetic and can include various additives. These agents do not contribute to nutritional value and may be seen as unnecessary processing.
Risks
May contain synthetic additives that some consumers prefer to avoid.
Benefits
Prevents clumping, ensuring the cheese remains easy to use.
NatamycinBad
Natamycin is a mold inhibitor used to extend the shelf life of cheese. It is a synthetic additive that prevents mold growth. While effective, it is an additional processing step that some consumers may wish to avoid.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Prevents mold growth, extending the shelf life of the product.
Mold InhibitorBad
Mold inhibitors are added to prevent spoilage in cheese. They are often synthetic and can include various chemical compounds. These additives are not necessary for all cheese types and may be seen as excessive processing.
Risks
May contain synthetic chemicals that some consumers prefer to avoid.
Benefits
Helps extend the shelf life by preventing mold growth.
Processing
Processed Foods
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