COLBY & MONTEREY JACK CHEESE

Common questions

Is COLBY & MONTEREY JACK CHEESE healthy?

COLBY & MONTEREY JACK CHEESE scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cheese product is made from pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color.

How processed is COLBY & MONTEREY JACK CHEESE?

COLBY & MONTEREY JACK CHEESE is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive COLBY & MONTEREY JACK CHEESE's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cheese cultures counts in its favor; Annatto 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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COLBY & MONTEREY JACK CHEESE

Member's Mark
70 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Walmart
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheese product is made from pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color. While it contains beneficial cheese cultures and minimal additives, it is classified as ultra-processed due to its processing level. The presence of annatto, a natural colorant, is primarily cosmetic and does not contribute to nutritional value.

Key ingredients 5

Cheese cultures
Good

Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria used in the fermentation process, enhancing flavor and texture. They contribute to the development of probiotics, which can support gut health. The use of cultures is a traditional method in cheese-making, adding nutritional value.

Benefits

May support gut health through the presence of probiotics and enhance the flavor and texture of the cheese.

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Pasteurized milk
Neutral

Pasteurized milk is a common base for cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process kills harmful bacteria but may also reduce some beneficial enzymes. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production, offering a neutral health impact.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients such as calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle function.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and as a preservative. It is a necessary component in cheese-making but should be consumed in moderation due to potential health impacts. The salt content in cheese contributes to its overall taste profile.

Risks

Excessive consumption of salt can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese, contributing to its shelf life.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese-making to coagulate milk, forming curds and whey. They are essential for the cheese production process but do not significantly impact health directly. Enzymes are a standard component in cheese, facilitating its creation.

Benefits

Essential for the cheese-making process, aiding in the coagulation of milk.

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Annatto
Bad

Annatto is a natural colorant derived from seeds, used to give cheese its yellow hue. While natural, it can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Its primary role is cosmetic, with no nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with sensitivities to natural colorants.

See more about Annatto →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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