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Great Value is carried at Walmart stores. Find one within 25 miles.
At a glance
Summary
This sharp cheddar cheese is made with a simple and traditional ingredient list, including pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color. The product is processed but maintains a clean label without harmful additives, making it a healthier choice compared to more heavily processed cheese products. Its processing level limits the score, but the quality of ingredients supports a high rating within its category.
Key ingredients 5
Cheese cultureGood
Cheese culture is used to ferment milk, aiding in the development of flavor and texture in cheese. It consists of beneficial bacteria that can improve gut health. This ingredient is crucial for traditional cheese-making processes.
Benefits
Contributes to the development of probiotics, which can support digestive health.
Pasteurized milkNeutral
Pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential proteins and fats. The pasteurization process kills 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 and experience digestive discomfort.
Benefits
Provides a good source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in cheese for flavor enhancement and as a preservative. It helps control the fermentation process and moisture content. While essential in moderation, excessive salt intake can lead to health issues.
Risks
High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a natural preservative in cheese.
EnzymesNeutral
Enzymes are used in cheese-making to coagulate milk, forming curds. They are essential for the cheese production process and do not pose significant health concerns. Enzymes can be derived from animal or microbial sources.
Benefits
Facilitates the cheese-making process by aiding in milk coagulation.
Annatto colorNeutral
Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange hue. It is considered safe and does not significantly alter the nutritional profile of the cheese. Annatto is preferred over artificial colorants.
Risks
In rare cases, annatto may cause allergic reactions.
Benefits
Provides a natural color to cheese without the use of synthetic dyes.
Processing
Processed Foods
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