Hood® Small Curd Cottage Cheese with Chive 24 oz. Tub

Common questions

Is Hood® Small Curd Cottage Cheese with Chive 24 oz. Tub healthy?

Hood® Small Curd Cottage Cheese with Chive 24 oz. Tub scores 63/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cottage cheese contains beneficial ingredients like cultured pasteurized skim milk and whey protein concentrate, which provide essential nutrients and probiotics.

How processed is Hood® Small Curd Cottage Cheese with Chive 24 oz. Tub?

Hood® Small Curd Cottage Cheese with Chive 24 oz. Tub is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Hood® Small Curd Cottage Cheese with Chive 24 oz. Tub's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cultured pasteurized skim milk, Milk and cream, Whey protein concentrate count in its favor; Natural flavor, Sorbic acid and carbon dioxide are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Hood® Small Curd Cottage Cheese with Chive 24 oz. Tub

Hood
63 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by The Kaneb Family
Category Cheese
Summary

This cottage cheese contains beneficial ingredients like cultured pasteurized skim milk and whey protein concentrate, which provide essential nutrients and probiotics. However, it includes several additives such as natural flavor and preservatives like sorbic acid, which detract from its overall healthiness. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the presence of some high-quality ingredients.

Key ingredients 13

Cultured pasteurized skim milk
Good

Cultured pasteurized skim milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Culturing adds beneficial probiotics that support gut health.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. Contains probiotics that may aid in digestion.

Milk and cream
Good

Milk and cream are natural dairy ingredients that contribute to the creamy texture and flavor of the cheese. They provide essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and healthy fats. The combination enhances the overall nutritional profile of the product.

Risks

May pose a risk for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Benefits

Provides calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for bone health. Contains healthy fats that can support energy levels.

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Whey protein concentrate
Good

Whey protein concentrate is a high-quality protein source derived from milk, offering a complete amino acid profile. It is beneficial for muscle repair and growth. The processing retains most of the beneficial nutrients found in whey.

Risks

May cause digestive issues in individuals with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

Excellent source of protein that supports muscle growth and repair. Contains essential amino acids necessary for various bodily functions.

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Whey
Neutral

Whey is a byproduct of cheese production that contains proteins, lactose, and minerals. It is often used to enhance the protein content of dairy products. The ingredient is generally considered safe and nutritious.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in lactose-intolerant individuals.

Benefits

Provides additional protein and minerals, contributing to the nutritional value of the product.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and act as a preservative in cheese. It is a common ingredient in many processed foods. While necessary for flavor, 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 preservative, extending the product's shelf life.

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Onion and chive
Neutral

Onion and chive are natural ingredients used to add flavor to the cheese. They are generally considered safe and can enhance the taste profile. These ingredients are minimally processed and retain their natural properties.

Benefits

Adds flavor and may provide small amounts of vitamins and antioxidants.

Xanthan gum
Neutral

Xanthan gum is a common food additive used as a thickening agent. It is derived from fermented sugars and is generally recognized as safe. It helps maintain the texture and consistency of the product.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Improves texture and consistency without significant nutritional impact.

See more about Xanthan gum →
Locust bean gum
Neutral

Locust bean gum is a natural thickening agent derived from carob seeds. It is used to stabilize and thicken food products. The ingredient is generally considered safe and is minimally processed.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.

Benefits

Helps stabilize and thicken the product, contributing to a desirable texture.

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Guar gum
Neutral

Guar gum is a thickening agent derived from guar beans. It is used to improve the texture and consistency of food products. The ingredient is generally recognized as safe and is widely used in the food industry.

Risks

May cause digestive issues in some individuals if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Enhances texture and consistency without significant nutritional benefits.

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Lactic acid
Neutral

Lactic acid is a naturally occurring acid used to add tanginess and act as a preservative. It is produced through fermentation and is generally considered safe. The ingredient helps maintain the product's freshness.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and enhances flavor without significant nutritional impact.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese production to aid in the coagulation of milk. They are essential for the cheese-making process and are generally considered safe. The use of enzymes is a traditional practice in cheese production.

Benefits

Essential for cheese production, aiding in milk coagulation and flavor development.

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Natural flavor
Bad

Natural flavor is a vague term that can encompass a wide range of substances derived from natural sources. It lacks transparency, making it difficult to assess its health impact. The use of natural flavors is often criticized for masking the true quality of the product.

Risks

Potential allergens or sensitivities may be present without clear labeling.

See more about Natural flavor →
Sorbic acid and carbon dioxide
Bad

Sorbic acid is a preservative used to prevent mold and yeast growth, while carbon dioxide is used for packaging. Sorbic acid is generally recognized as safe but can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The use of preservatives is often criticized for being unnecessary in fresh products.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals.

Benefits

Helps extend shelf life by preventing spoilage.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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