Mature Irish Cheddar

Common questions

Is Mature Irish Cheddar healthy?

Mature Irish Cheddar scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This mature Irish cheddar is made from pasteurized cow's milk, salt, starter cultures, and rennet, which are traditional ingredients for cheese.

How processed is Mature Irish Cheddar?

Mature Irish Cheddar is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Mature Irish Cheddar's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized Cow's Milk, Rennet 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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Mature Irish Cheddar

Cracking Good! Cheese Co.
85 Excellent

Analysis updated October 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Atalanta Corp
Category Cheese
Summary

This mature Irish cheddar is made from pasteurized cow's milk, salt, starter cultures, and rennet, which are traditional ingredients for cheese. The product is processed but maintains a clean label with no harmful additives or artificial ingredients. Its high-quality ingredients and minimal processing contribute to a favorable score, although the processing level imposes a cap on the maximum score achievable.

Key ingredients 4

Pasteurized Cow's Milk
Good

Pasteurized cow's milk is a primary source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria while retaining nutritional value. It is a fundamental ingredient in cheese production, providing a rich and creamy texture.

Risks

Some individuals may be lactose intolerant or allergic to cow's milk proteins.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. Provides essential vitamins and minerals necessary for overall health.

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Rennet
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Essential for the cheese-making process, aiding in curd formation and texture development.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese making to enhance flavor and act as a preservative. It is a common ingredient in many processed foods, providing essential sodium for bodily functions. However, excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

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

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.

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Starter Cultures
Neutral

Starter cultures are beneficial bacteria used in cheese making to initiate fermentation. They play a crucial role in developing the flavor and texture of the cheese. While they are essential for cheese production, they do not provide direct nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Contribute to the development of cheese flavor and texture through fermentation.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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