Sargento Sliced Natural Reduced Fat Cheese Medium Cheddar

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Common questions

Is Sargento Sliced Natural Reduced Fat Cheese Medium Cheddar healthy?

Sargento Sliced Natural Reduced Fat Cheese Medium Cheddar scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cheese product is ultra-processed, which limits its potential score despite having some beneficial ingredients like pasteurized reduced fat milk and cheese culture.

How processed is Sargento Sliced Natural Reduced Fat Cheese Medium Cheddar?

Sargento Sliced Natural Reduced Fat Cheese Medium Cheddar is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Sargento Sliced Natural Reduced Fat Cheese Medium Cheddar's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized reduced fat milk, Cheese culture count in its favor; Natamycin is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Sargento Sliced Natural Reduced Fat Cheese Medium Cheddar

Sargento
65 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$3.00 · $0.38 / ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Sargento Foods Inc
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheese product is ultra-processed, which limits its potential score despite having some beneficial ingredients like pasteurized reduced fat milk and cheese culture. The presence of natamycin, a mold inhibitor, adds a level of controversy due to its potential impact on gut flora. While the product has a relatively clean ingredient list with only two additives, the processing level and use of additives prevent it from scoring higher.

Key ingredients 7

Pasteurized reduced fat milk
Good

This ingredient provides a source of high-quality protein and calcium. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Reduced fat content makes it a healthier option for those monitoring fat intake.

Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.

Cheese culture
Good

Cheese cultures are essential for the fermentation process, contributing to flavor and texture. They promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. These cultures can enhance gut health by supporting a healthy microbiome.

Benefits

Supports gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria growth.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used for flavor enhancement and preservation. It is a common ingredient in cheese production. While necessary in small amounts, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for flavor and preservation in cheese production.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese making to aid in coagulation and flavor development. They are naturally occurring and essential for cheese production. Their use is standard in the industry and poses no health risks.

Benefits

Facilitates cheese production by aiding in coagulation and flavor development.

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Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from seeds. It is used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange color. As a natural additive, it is generally considered safe.

Risks

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to annatto.

Benefits

Provides natural color without synthetic additives.

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Vitamin A palmitate
Neutral

Vitamin A palmitate is added to fortify the cheese with vitamin A. It is a synthetic form of vitamin A used in food fortification. While beneficial for vision and immune function, excessive intake can be harmful.

Risks

Excessive intake of vitamin A can lead to toxicity.

Benefits

Supports vision and immune function through vitamin A fortification.

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Natamycin
Bad

Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor used to extend shelf life. While effective, its use in food can be controversial due to potential impacts on gut flora. It is generally recognized as safe but should be consumed in moderation.

Risks

May impact gut flora balance if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Prevents mold growth, extending the product's shelf life.

See more about Natamycin →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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