SARGENTO, SLICED NATURAL REDUCED FAT CHEESE, MEDIUM CHEDDAR

Sargento
65 Fair
$2.97
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Summary

This cheese product is made from pasteurized reduced fat milk, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the inclusion of additives like natamycin and annatto, which are used for preservation and coloring. While the ingredient list is relatively short and lacks harmful artificial additives, the processing level limits its overall healthiness.

At a glance

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

Key ingredients 7

Pasteurized reduced fat milk
Good

Pasteurized reduced fat milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Reduced fat content may appeal to those managing dietary fat intake.

Benefits

Provides high-quality protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.

Cheese culture
Neutral

Cheese culture is used to ferment milk, aiding in the development of flavor and texture in cheese. It consists of beneficial bacteria that can enhance the nutritional profile of the cheese. The specific strains used can vary, impacting the final product's characteristics.

Benefits

May contribute to gut health by introducing beneficial bacteria.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese making to enhance flavor and act as a preservative. It helps control the growth of unwanted bacteria during fermentation. Excessive consumption of salt can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for flavor development and preservation in cheese.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are crucial in cheese production, aiding in the coagulation of milk. They help develop the texture and flavor of the cheese. The specific enzymes used can vary, affecting the cheese's final characteristics.

Benefits

Facilitates the cheese-making process by aiding in milk coagulation.

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Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange hue. Being a natural colorant, it is generally considered safe.

Benefits

Provides natural color without synthetic additives.

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Vitamin A palmitate
Neutral

Vitamin A palmitate is added to fortify cheese with vitamin A, an essential nutrient for vision and immune function. It is a synthetic form of vitamin A, commonly used in food fortification. While beneficial, excessive intake can lead to toxicity.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to vitamin A toxicity, though this is rare with normal dietary intake.

Benefits

Enhances the nutritional profile by providing essential vitamin A.

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Natamycin
Bad

Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor used to extend the shelf life of cheese. While effective, its use in food products is sometimes debated due to potential impacts on gut flora. It is generally recognized as safe but may not be necessary in all cheese products.

Risks

Potential to disrupt gut flora balance if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

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

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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