Mexican Blend Shredded Cheese
Summary
This cheese blend contains high-quality ingredients like various types of cheese and pasteurized milk, which provide essential nutrients such as calcium and protein. However, it is moderately processed and includes natamycin, a preservative that raises some concerns about its impact on gut health. The presence of this additive and the processing level limit the overall healthiness of the product.
At a glance
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 most of its natural nutrients.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Benefits
Provides a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Pasteurized milkGood
Pasteurized milk is used as a base ingredient in cheese production, ensuring safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It retains essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. The pasteurization process is a standard safety measure in dairy production.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health and immune function.
Cheese cultureGood
Cheese culture is essential for the fermentation process in cheese making, contributing to flavor and texture development. It consists of beneficial bacteria that aid in the fermentation process. These cultures are natural and enhance the nutritional profile of the cheese.
Benefits
Supports gut health by introducing beneficial bacteria and enhances cheese flavor.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in cheese making for flavor enhancement and as a preservative. It helps control moisture and bacterial growth in the cheese. While necessary in cheese production, excessive salt intake can be a health concern.
Risks
High sodium intake can lead to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Acts as a preservative and flavor enhancer in cheese.
EnzymesGood
Enzymes are crucial in the cheese-making process, aiding in the coagulation of milk. They are natural proteins that help convert milk into cheese. Enzymes are typically derived from animal or microbial sources and are essential for cheese texture.
Benefits
Facilitates the cheese-making process and contributes to the development of cheese texture.
Cheddar cheeseGood
Cheddar cheese is a popular cheese known for its rich flavor and firm texture. It is made from pasteurized milk and provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The cheese undergoes aging, which enhances its flavor and nutritional profile.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
ColorNeutral
Color is added to cheese to achieve a consistent appearance, often using natural or synthetic sources. It does not affect the nutritional value of the cheese. The use of color is primarily for aesthetic purposes.
Risks
Potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals if synthetic colors are used.
Medium yellow cheddar cheeseGood
Medium yellow cheddar cheese is a variant of cheddar with a balanced flavor profile. It is made from pasteurized milk and provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The cheese is aged to develop its characteristic flavor.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Benefits
Provides a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cultured milkGood
Cultured milk is milk that has been fermented with beneficial bacteria, enhancing its nutritional profile. It is used in cheese making to develop flavor and texture. The fermentation process increases the availability of nutrients.
Benefits
Supports gut health by introducing beneficial bacteria and enhances cheese flavor.
Medium white cheddar cheeseGood
Medium white cheddar cheese is a variant of cheddar with a mild flavor profile. It is made from pasteurized milk and provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The cheese is aged to develop its characteristic flavor.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Queso quesadillaGood
Queso quesadilla is a soft, creamy cheese known for its melting properties. It is made from pasteurized milk and is rich in calcium and protein. The cheese is minimally processed, retaining most of its natural nutrients.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
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 is rich in calcium and protein. The cheese is minimally processed, retaining most of its natural nutrients.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Potato starchNeutral
Potato starch is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent cheese shreds from sticking together. It is a natural carbohydrate derived from potatoes. The starch does not significantly alter the nutritional profile of the cheese.
See more about Potato starch →NatamycinBad
Natamycin is a natural antifungal agent used to prevent mold growth on cheese. While effective as a preservative, its use raises concerns about potential impacts on gut microbiota. It is generally recognized as safe but should be consumed in moderation.
Risks
May disrupt gut microbiota balance if consumed in large quantities.
Benefits
Prevents mold growth, extending the shelf life of cheese.
Processing
Processed Foods
Get the full breakdown in the Scout app
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store