Tillamook Mexican Blend Shreds

Common questions

Is Tillamook Mexican Blend Shreds healthy?

Tillamook Mexican Blend Shreds scores 78/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cheese blend is moderately processed, containing multiple types of cheese with added natamycin as a preservative.

How processed is Tillamook Mexican Blend Shreds?

Tillamook Mexican Blend Shreds is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Tillamook Mexican Blend Shreds' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Natamycin is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Tillamook Mexican Blend Shreds

Tillamook
78 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$3.99 · 8 oz · $0.50 / ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Tillamook County Creamery Association
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheese blend is moderately processed, containing multiple types of cheese with added natamycin as a preservative. While natamycin is considered safe in small amounts, it is an additive that detracts from the product's natural profile. The presence of potato starch also indicates a level of processing beyond traditional cheese-making, which impacts the overall score.

Key ingredients 10

Medium white cheddar cheese
Neutral

Medium white cheddar cheese is a source of protein and calcium. It is made from milk and contains beneficial nutrients but also saturated fats. The cheese is processed but does not contain harmful additives.

Risks

High in saturated fats which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides protein and calcium which are essential for bone health.

Cultured milk
Neutral

Cultured milk is used in cheese production to develop flavor and texture. It contains probiotics which can be beneficial for gut health. The fermentation process enhances digestibility.

Benefits

Contains probiotics that may support digestive health.

See more about Cultured milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in cheese. It is necessary for the cheese-making process but contributes to sodium intake. Excessive consumption of sodium can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake is associated with increased risk of hypertension.

Benefits

Essential for flavor and preservation in cheese.

See more about Salt →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese production to coagulate milk. They are necessary for the cheese-making process and are generally considered safe. Enzymes do not contribute significant nutritional value.

Benefits

Essential for the cheese-making process.

See more about Enzymes →
Medium cheddar cheese
Neutral

Medium cheddar cheese provides protein and calcium. It is made from milk and is a common cheese variety. The cheese is processed but does not contain harmful additives.

Risks

High in saturated fats which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides protein and calcium which are essential for bone health.

Annatto color
Neutral

Annatto is a natural colorant derived from seeds. It is used to give cheese an orange hue. Annatto is generally considered safe and does not affect the nutritional profile of the cheese.

Risks

Rare cases of allergic reactions have been reported.

Benefits

Provides natural coloring without synthetic additives.

See more about Annatto color →
Queso quesadilla
Neutral

Queso quesadilla is a type of cheese used for its melting properties. It is made from milk and provides protein and calcium. The cheese is processed but does not contain harmful additives.

Risks

High in saturated fats which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Excellent melting cheese that provides protein and calcium.

Asadero cheese
Neutral

Asadero cheese is known for its smooth texture and melting ability. It is made from milk and is a source of protein and calcium. The cheese is processed but does not contain harmful additives.

Risks

High in saturated fats which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides protein and calcium, ideal for melting.

Potato starch
Neutral

Potato starch is used to prevent cheese shreds from clumping. It is a natural ingredient and generally considered safe. Potato starch does not contribute significant nutritional value.

Benefits

Helps maintain the texture of shredded cheese.

See more about Potato starch →
Natamycin
Bad

Natamycin is a preservative used to prevent mold growth on cheese. It is an antifungal agent and is considered safe in small amounts. However, it is an additive and not a natural component of cheese.

Risks

Potential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Prevents mold growth, extending the shelf life of cheese.

See more about Natamycin →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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