Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese

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Common questions

Is Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese healthy?

Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cheese product is a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack, both of which are made from pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes, with annatto for color.

How processed is Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese?

Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

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Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese

Borden
75 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Dairy Farmers of America
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheese product is a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack, both of which are made from pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes, with annatto for color. While it contains natural ingredients typical of cheese, the addition of anticaking agents and a mold inhibitor indicates a moderate level of processing. These additives, while not harmful, prevent it from reaching the highest scores reserved for more traditional, minimally processed cheeses.

Key ingredients 4

Colby Cheese
Neutral

Colby cheese is a traditional dairy product made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes. It is a source of calcium and protein but lacks significant additional health benefits. The use of annatto for coloring is generally considered safe and does not impact the nutritional profile.

Risks

Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Benefits

Provides a good source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.

Monterey Jack Cheese
Neutral

Monterey Jack cheese is made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes, offering a mild flavor and creamy texture. It is a traditional cheese with no artificial additives. While nutritious, it does not provide unique health benefits beyond basic dairy nutrition.

Risks

May cause issues for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Benefits

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

See more about Monterey Jack Cheese →
Anticaking Agent
Neutral

The anticaking agent consists of potato starch, corn starch, and calcium sulfate, used to prevent clumping in shredded cheese. These ingredients are generally recognized as safe and do not significantly alter the nutritional profile of the cheese. They are minimally processed and serve a functional purpose in maintaining product quality.

Benefits

Helps maintain the texture and quality of the cheese by preventing clumping.

Natamycin
Neutral

Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor used to extend the shelf life of cheese products. It is derived from natural sources and is considered safe for consumption in regulated amounts. Its use is common in the food industry to prevent spoilage without affecting flavor or nutrition.

Benefits

Effectively prevents mold growth, extending the shelf life of cheese without altering its taste or nutritional value.

See more about Natamycin →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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