Pepper jack

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

Common questions

Is Pepper jack healthy?

Pepper jack scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This pepper jack cheese is made from pasteurized milk, jalapeno and red bell peppers, salt, enzymes, and cheese culture, which are all traditional and minimally processed ingredients.

How processed is Pepper jack?

Pepper jack is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Pepper jack's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Jalapeno and red bell pepper, Cheese culture count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Pepper jack

First Street
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Chedraui
Category Cheese
Summary

This pepper jack cheese is made from pasteurized milk, jalapeno and red bell peppers, salt, enzymes, and cheese culture, which are all traditional and minimally processed ingredients. The inclusion of natural peppers adds flavor and a slight nutritional boost, while the cheese culture and enzymes contribute to its texture and digestibility. Despite being processed, the clean ingredient list and absence of harmful additives allow it to score well within its category.

Key ingredients 5

Jalapeno and red bell pepper
Good

Jalapeno and red bell peppers add flavor and a small amount of vitamins and antioxidants to the cheese. They are minimally processed and retain most of their natural nutrients. These peppers contribute to the cheese's unique taste and provide a slight nutritional boost.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals due to their spiciness.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.

Cheese culture
Good

Cheese culture consists of beneficial bacteria that ferment lactose, contributing to the cheese's flavor and texture. These cultures are essential for the development of cheese and can enhance gut health. The fermentation process improves the digestibility of cheese and adds probiotic benefits.

Benefits

Promotes gut health through probiotic activity and enhances the flavor and texture of cheese.

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Pasteurized milk
Neutral

Pasteurized milk is a common base for cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process kills harmful bacteria but may also reduce some beneficial enzymes. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production, offering a balanced nutritional profile.

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 is a necessary component in cheese-making but should be consumed in moderation due to potential health impacts. The salt content in cheese contributes to its taste and shelf life.

Risks

Excessive consumption of salt can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative, extending the product's shelf life.

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Enzymes
Neutral

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

Benefits

Facilitate the cheese-making process and improve the texture and flavor of the final product.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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