Mild Cheddar Cheese

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Common questions

Is Mild Cheddar Cheese healthy?

Mild Cheddar Cheese scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This mild cheddar cheese is made from pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, microbial enzymes, and annatto color, which are typical ingredients for traditional cheese.

How processed is Mild Cheddar Cheese?

Mild Cheddar Cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Mild Cheddar Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cheese cultures counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Mild Cheddar Cheese

Publix
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Publix
Category Cheese
Summary

This mild cheddar cheese is made from pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, microbial enzymes, and annatto color, which are typical ingredients for traditional cheese. The product is processed but maintains a clean ingredient list without harmful additives or seed oils. Its processing level limits the score, but the absence of artificial additives and the use of beneficial cheese cultures contribute positively to its rating.

Key ingredients 5

Cheese cultures
Good

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

Benefits

May support digestive health by contributing beneficial bacteria to the gut microbiome.

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Pasteurized milk
Neutral

Pasteurized 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

Some individuals may be lactose intolerant and experience digestive discomfort.

Benefits

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

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and as a preservative. It helps control moisture and texture in the cheese-making process. While it is necessary for cheese production, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a natural preservative in cheese.

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Microbial enzymes
Neutral

Microbial enzymes are used to coagulate milk in cheese production. They are an alternative to animal rennet, making cheese suitable for vegetarians. These enzymes are effective in cheese-making without significant health concerns.

Benefits

Allows for the production of vegetarian-friendly cheese without compromising quality.

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Annatto color
Neutral

Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange hue. As a natural additive, it is generally considered safe with minimal health concerns.

Risks

In rare cases, may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides a natural source of color without synthetic additives.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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