PEPPER JACK CHEESE

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Common questions

Is PEPPER JACK CHEESE healthy?

PEPPER JACK CHEESE scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. Pepper Jack Cheese is a processed cheese with a clean ingredient list, consisting of pasteurized milk, jalapeno peppers, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes.

How processed is PEPPER JACK CHEESE?

PEPPER JACK CHEESE is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive PEPPER JACK CHEESE's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Jalapeno peppers, Cheese culture 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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PEPPER JACK CHEESE

Great Value
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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Near you

Great Value is carried at Walmart stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Walmart
Category Cheese
Summary

Pepper Jack Cheese is a processed cheese with a clean ingredient list, consisting of pasteurized milk, jalapeno peppers, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes. The inclusion of jalapeno peppers adds flavor and nutritional benefits without excessive additives or harmful ingredients. Despite being processed, the absence of artificial additives and seed oils supports a higher score within its category.

Key ingredients 5

Jalapeno peppers
Good

Jalapeno peppers add flavor and a spicy kick to the cheese, along with vitamins and antioxidants. They contain capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting properties. The peppers are minimally processed, retaining most of their nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals due to their spiciness.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins A and C, and capsaicin, which may support metabolism and provide antioxidant benefits.

See more about Jalapeno peppers →
Cheese culture
Good

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

Benefits

Facilitates the fermentation process, enhancing flavor and texture in 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 eliminates harmful bacteria but may reduce some beneficial enzymes. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production, offering a balanced nutritional profile.

Risks

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

Benefits

Provides a good source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.

See more about Pasteurized milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and as a preservative. It helps control the fermentation process and enhances the overall taste. While necessary in cheese-making, excessive consumption of salt can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese-making to coagulate milk, forming curds and whey. They are crucial for developing the texture and flavor of the cheese. Typically derived from animal or microbial sources, they are a standard component in cheese production.

Benefits

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

See more about Enzymes →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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