Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese

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Common questions

Is Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese healthy?

Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This shredded cheese product contains Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses, which are good sources of protein and calcium.

How processed is Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese?

Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Colby cheese, Monterey Jack cheese count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese

Best Choice
65 Fair

Analysis updated October 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Associated Wholesale Grocers Inc.
Category Cheese
Summary

This shredded cheese product contains Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses, which are good sources of protein and calcium. However, it includes added potato starch to prevent caking and natamycin as a mold inhibitor, which are indicative of moderate processing. While the cheese itself is made from quality ingredients, the processing level and additives slightly reduce its overall health score.

Key ingredients 4

Colby cheese
Good

Colby cheese is a source of high-quality protein and calcium, essential for bone health. It is made from pasteurized milk and contains beneficial cheese cultures. The presence of annatto color is natural and does not pose significant health concerns.

Risks

Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for those with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein, supporting bone and muscle health.

Monterey Jack cheese
Good

Monterey Jack cheese is rich in protein and calcium, contributing to bone and muscle health. It is made from pasteurized milk and beneficial cheese cultures. The absence of artificial additives makes it a cleaner choice.

Risks

Contains lactose, which can be problematic for individuals with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

Offers a good source of calcium and protein, important for maintaining strong bones and muscles.

See more about Monterey Jack cheese →
Potato starch
Neutral

Potato starch is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping in shredded cheese. It is a natural carbohydrate with minimal processing. It does not significantly impact the nutritional profile of the cheese.

Benefits

Helps maintain the texture and usability of shredded cheese without altering its nutritional value.

See more about Potato starch →
Natamycin
Neutral

Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor used to extend the shelf life of cheese. It is derived from natural sources and is considered safe for consumption. Its use is limited to the surface of the cheese, minimizing ingestion.

Benefits

Prevents mold growth, helping to maintain the quality and safety of the cheese over time.

See more about Natamycin →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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