Price Chopper Mexican Blend Shredded Cheese
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This Mexican Blend Shredded Cheese is a processed food with a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Cheddar, which provide beneficial nutrients such as calcium and protein. However, the presence of natamycin as a preservative raises concerns about additive use, and the product's processing level limits its score. Despite these factors, the cheese blend maintains a relatively clean ingredient list with minimal harmful substances.
Key ingredients 14
Monterey jack cheeseGood
Monterey Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese known for its mild flavor and creamy texture. It is made from pasteurized milk and contains beneficial nutrients like calcium and protein. The cheese is minimally processed, retaining its nutritional value.
Benefits
Provides a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Pasteurized milkGood
Pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese production, offering essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It serves as a base for cheese, contributing to its nutritional profile.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health and immune function.
Cheese cultureGood
Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria used in cheese making to develop flavor and texture. They are essential for fermentation, contributing to the cheese's unique taste. These cultures are natural and enhance the nutritional profile of the cheese.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and texture while supporting gut health through beneficial bacteria.
Cheddar cheeseGood
Cheddar cheese is a popular cheese known for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. It is made from pasteurized milk and provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The cheese is aged to enhance its flavor profile.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Medium yellow cheddar cheeseGood
Medium yellow cheddar cheese offers a balanced flavor and nutritional benefits. It is made from pasteurized milk and provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The cheese is aged to develop its flavor.
Benefits
Provides calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cultured milkGood
Cultured milk is used in cheese making to develop flavor and texture. It contains beneficial bacteria that aid in fermentation. This ingredient enhances the nutritional profile of the cheese.
Benefits
Supports gut health through beneficial bacteria and enhances cheese flavor.
Medium white cheddar cheeseGood
Medium white cheddar cheese is known for its mild flavor and nutritional benefits. It is made from pasteurized milk and provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The cheese is aged to enhance its flavor profile.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Queso quesadillaGood
Queso quesadilla is a soft cheese known for its melting properties and mild flavor. It is made from pasteurized milk and provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein. This cheese is minimally processed, retaining its nutritional value.
Benefits
Provides a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Asadero cheeseGood
Asadero cheese is a semi-soft cheese known for its smooth texture and mild flavor. It is made from pasteurized milk and provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The cheese is minimally processed, retaining its nutritional value.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in cheese making for flavor and preservation. It is a common culinary ingredient that helps control moisture and texture. While necessary in cheese production, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.
Risks
High sodium intake may contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Essential for flavor and preservation in cheese making.
EnzymesNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Benefits
Facilitates the cheese making process, contributing to texture and flavor development.
ColorNeutral
Color is added to cheese to enhance its visual appeal. It is typically derived from natural sources like annatto. While it does not affect the nutritional value, it is used for aesthetic purposes.
Benefits
Enhances visual appeal without affecting nutritional value.
Potato starchNeutral
Potato starch is used as an anti-caking agent in shredded cheese. It helps prevent clumping and ensures even distribution. While it does not contribute significant nutritional value, it is a common additive in cheese products.
Benefits
Prevents clumping in shredded cheese, ensuring even distribution.
NatamycinBad
Natamycin is a natural antifungal agent used to prevent mold growth in cheese. While it is considered safe, its use as a preservative raises concerns about potential overuse of additives. It is a common additive in cheese products to extend shelf life.
Risks
Potential overuse of preservatives may lead to reduced natural food quality.
Benefits
Prevents mold growth, extending the shelf life of cheese products.
Processing
Processed Foods
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