Crystal Farms GOUDA NATURAL CHEESE

Common questions

Is Crystal Farms GOUDA NATURAL CHEESE healthy?

Crystal Farms GOUDA NATURAL CHEESE scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This Gouda cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk, salt, enzymes, and annatto color, which are typical ingredients for traditional cheese.

How processed is Crystal Farms GOUDA NATURAL CHEESE?

Crystal Farms GOUDA NATURAL CHEESE is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Crystal Farms GOUDA NATURAL CHEESE's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cultured pasteurized milk counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Crystal Farms GOUDA NATURAL CHEESE

Crystal Farms
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Milton G. Waldbaum Company
Category Cheese
Summary

This Gouda cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk, salt, enzymes, and annatto color, which are typical ingredients for traditional cheese. The product is processed but maintains a clean ingredient list without harmful additives or seed oils, allowing it to score well within its category. The use of annatto for coloring is a traditional practice and does not detract significantly from its quality.

Key ingredients 4

Cultured pasteurized milk
Good

Cultured pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential proteins and fats. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Culturing enhances flavor and digestibility.

Benefits

Rich in high-quality proteins and fats, supporting muscle health and providing energy. Contains calcium and other nutrients beneficial for bone health.

See more about Cultured pasteurized milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and as a preservative. It helps control the fermentation process and enhances taste. However, excessive consumption can contribute to high blood pressure.

Risks

High sodium intake may lead to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for flavor enhancement and preservation in cheese production.

See more about Salt →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are crucial for the cheese-making process, aiding in milk coagulation. They are typically derived from animal or microbial sources. Their role is primarily functional, with no direct health impact.

Benefits

Facilitates the cheese-making process by aiding in milk coagulation and flavor development.

See more about Enzymes →
Annatto color
Neutral

Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange hue. It is generally considered safe and has minimal impact on flavor.

Risks

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, though this is rare.

Benefits

Provides a natural color to cheese without affecting its flavor or nutritional profile.

See more about Annatto color →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Cheese