Mild Cheddar
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This mild cheddar cheese is a processed food with a relatively clean ingredient list, including pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes. However, the presence of corn starch as an anti-caking agent introduces a processed carbohydrate, which slightly detracts from its nutritional profile. Despite being processed, it lacks harmful additives like artificial colors or flavors, which helps maintain a reasonable score.
Key ingredients 6
Pasteurized MilkGood
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 is a high-quality source of animal protein and beneficial fats.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cheese CulturesNeutral
Cheese cultures are used to ferment milk, aiding in the development of flavor and texture in cheese. They are essential for the cheesemaking process but do not provide direct nutritional benefits. The cultures contribute to the characteristic taste of cheddar cheese.
Benefits
Contributes to the development of flavor and texture in cheese.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in cheese for flavor enhancement and preservation. It is a common ingredient in cheese but does not provide additional nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption of salt can lead to health issues such as hypertension.
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 production to coagulate milk, forming curds. They are essential for the cheesemaking process but do not provide direct nutritional benefits. Enzymes help in developing the texture of the cheese.
Benefits
Essential for coagulating milk and forming cheese curds.
Annatto Vegetable ColorNeutral
Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to give cheese its yellow-orange hue. It is considered safe and does not affect the nutritional profile of the cheese. Annatto is preferred over artificial colorings.
Benefits
Provides natural color without affecting the nutritional value of the cheese.
Corn StarchNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
Processed carbohydrates may contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues when consumed in excess.
Benefits
Helps maintain the texture of shredded cheese by preventing clumping.
Processing
Processed Foods
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