Cottage Cheese

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

Common questions

Is Cottage Cheese healthy?

Cottage Cheese scores 68/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cottage cheese contains beneficial ingredients like cultured pasteurized skim milk and milk, which provide protein and calcium.

How processed is Cottage Cheese?

Cottage Cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Cottage Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cultured Pasteurized Skim Milk, Milk, Cream count in its favor; Carrageenan 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

Cottage Cheese

H-E-B
68 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

16 oz
View on Amazon
Verified Amazon match

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by H-E-B
Category Cheese
Summary

This cottage cheese contains beneficial ingredients like cultured pasteurized skim milk and milk, which provide protein and calcium. However, it also includes additives such as guar gum and carrageenan, which are processed and can cause digestive issues for some individuals. The presence of these additives and the processing level limit its score, despite the nutritional benefits of the primary ingredients.

Key ingredients 10

Cultured Pasteurized Skim Milk
Good

Cultured pasteurized skim milk is a primary ingredient in cottage cheese, providing a source of protein and calcium. The culturing process enhances digestibility and adds beneficial probiotics. It is minimally processed, retaining most of its nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. Contains probiotics that may aid in digestion.

Milk
Good

Milk is a fundamental ingredient in dairy products, offering essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. It is a whole food with minimal processing, contributing to the nutritional profile of cottage cheese. The presence of milk enhances the protein content of the product.

Risks

Potential lactose intolerance in some individuals.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health. Contributes to the protein content of the product.

See more about Milk →
Cream
Good

Traditional whole-fat dairy ingredient.

Risks

High in saturated fat, which may impact heart health if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and texture, making the product more palatable.

See more about Cream →
Nonfat Dry Milk
Neutral

Nonfat dry milk is used to increase the protein content and improve the texture of cottage cheese. It is a processed form of milk with the fat removed, providing a concentrated source of protein. The drying process allows for longer shelf life and stability.

Benefits

Increases protein content without adding fat, supporting muscle maintenance.

See more about Nonfat Dry Milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and act as a preservative in cottage cheese. It is a common culinary ingredient with minimal processing. While necessary for flavor, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

Excessive sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

See more about Salt →
Guar Gum
Neutral

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

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability of the product.

See more about Guar Gum →
Carob Bean Gum
Neutral

Carob bean gum is used as a thickening agent in food products. It is derived from the seeds of the carob tree and is less processed than some other gums. It is generally considered safe but offers no significant nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability of the product.

See more about Carob Bean Gum →
Enzyme
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese production to aid in the coagulation of milk. They are essential for the cheese-making process and are naturally occurring. The use of enzymes is standard in cheese production and does not pose health risks.

Benefits

Essential for cheese production, aiding in milk coagulation.

Carbon Dioxide
Neutral

Carbon dioxide is used in food packaging to extend shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth. It is a naturally occurring gas and is generally recognized as safe. Its use in food packaging does not affect the nutritional quality of the product.

Benefits

Extends shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth.

See more about Carbon Dioxide →
Carrageenan
Bad

Carrageenan is a common food additive used for thickening and stabilizing. It is derived from red seaweed but is highly processed. Some studies suggest it may cause inflammation or digestive issues.

Risks

Potential to cause inflammation and digestive issues in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability of the product.

See more about Carrageenan →

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

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