Colby and Monterey Jack Cheeses Colby Jack

Common questions

Is Colby and Monterey Jack Cheeses Colby Jack healthy?

Colby and Monterey Jack Cheeses Colby Jack 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, and enzymes, with annatto used for coloring.

How processed is Colby and Monterey Jack Cheeses Colby Jack?

Colby and Monterey Jack Cheeses Colby Jack is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Colby and Monterey Jack Cheeses Colby Jack's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cheese cultures counts in its favor; Annatto (vegetable color) is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Colby and Monterey Jack Cheeses Colby Jack

70 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$1.66 · 8 oz · $0.21 / ounce
View on Amazon
Verified Amazon match

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Target Corporation
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheese product is made from pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes, with annatto used for coloring. While it contains beneficial cheese cultures, the presence of annatto as a coloring agent and its classification as ultra-processed limit its score. The processing level restricts the potential score despite the relatively clean ingredient list.

Key ingredients 5

Cheese cultures
Good

Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria used in the fermentation process of cheese, contributing to flavor and texture. They can enhance gut health by promoting beneficial gut flora. These cultures are a natural part of traditional cheese-making, offering positive health benefits.

Benefits

May support gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria in the digestive system.

See more about Cheese cultures →
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.

See more about Pasteurized milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and as a preservative. While necessary in small amounts, excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure. In cheese, it serves a functional role without significant health benefits.

Risks

Excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

See more about Salt →
Enzymes (microbial)
Neutral

Microbial enzymes are used in cheese-making to aid in the coagulation of milk. They are an alternative to animal rennet and are suitable for vegetarians. These enzymes are a standard part of cheese production with no significant health impact.

Benefits

Allows for the production of cheese suitable for vegetarians.

Annatto (vegetable color)
Bad

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to give cheese a yellow hue. While generally considered safe, it can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Its use is primarily aesthetic, with no nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-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
Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

More in Cheese