LOW-MOISTURE WHOLE-MILK MOZZARELLA CHEESE
Summary
This mozzarella cheese is made from pasteurized milk, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. However, it includes additives such as powdered cellulose and natamycin, which contribute to its ultra-processed nature. The presence of these additives and the processing level limit its score, despite the beneficial qualities of the primary ingredient.
At a glance
Key ingredients 8
Pasteurized milkGood
Pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It is a high-quality source of animal-based protein with a rich amino acid profile.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cheese cultureNeutral
Cheese culture is used to ferment milk, aiding in the development of flavor and texture in cheese. It consists of beneficial bacteria that help in the cheese-making process. While it contributes to the product's characteristics, it does not have direct health benefits.
Benefits
Contributes to the development of flavor and texture in cheese.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in cheese for flavor enhancement and as a preservative. It helps control the growth of unwanted bacteria during cheese aging. While necessary in cheese production, excessive salt intake can lead to health issues.
Risks
Excessive consumption of salt can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.
EnzymesNeutral
Enzymes are used in cheese-making to coagulate milk, forming curds and whey. They are essential for the cheese production process but do not provide direct nutritional benefits. Enzymes are typically derived from animal or microbial sources.
Benefits
Essential for the cheese-making process, aiding in milk coagulation.
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. While it serves a functional purpose, it does not offer significant nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Prevents clumping of cheese shreds, maintaining product quality.
Corn starchNeutral
Corn starch is used as an anti-caking agent in shredded cheese products. It is a carbohydrate extracted from corn, serving to keep cheese pieces separate. While functional, it does not provide nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Helps maintain the texture and quality of shredded cheese.
Powdered celluloseBad
Powdered cellulose is used as an anti-caking agent in cheese products. It is derived from plant fibers and is highly processed. While it prevents clumping, it is an additive with no nutritional value and may be seen as unnecessary processing.
Risks
May be considered an unnecessary additive with no nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Prevents cheese shreds from clumping together, maintaining product quality.
NatamycinBad
Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor used to extend the shelf life of cheese. It is an antifungal agent that prevents mold growth on cheese surfaces. While effective, its use as a preservative may be seen as unnecessary in fresh, high-quality products.
Risks
May be considered an unnecessary additive in fresh products, though generally recognized as safe.
Benefits
Prevents mold growth, extending the shelf life of cheese products.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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