Extra Sharp cheddar cheese slices
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This extra sharp cheddar cheese is made with a simple ingredient list including pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color. The product is processed but maintains a clean label with no harmful additives or seed oils, which supports a higher score within its category. The use of traditional cheese-making ingredients contributes positively to its rating, although the processing level imposes a cap on the score.
Key ingredients 5
Cheese CulturesGood
Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria used in the fermentation process of cheese. They enhance flavor and texture while contributing to the development of probiotics. These cultures are essential for traditional cheese-making, promoting gut health.
Benefits
Contribute to the development of probiotics, which can support digestive health and improve gut flora balance.
Pasteurized MilkNeutral
Pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in 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.
Benefits
Provides essential nutrients such as calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle maintenance.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in cheese for flavor enhancement and as a preservative. It is a common ingredient in cheese-making, providing necessary sodium content. While it enhances taste, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.
Risks
High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues if consumed in excess.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative, extending the shelf life of the cheese.
EnzymesNeutral
Enzymes are used in cheese-making to coagulate milk, forming curds and whey. They are crucial for the cheese production process, affecting texture and flavor. Typically derived from animal or microbial sources, they are standard in cheese-making.
Benefits
Essential for the cheese-making process, contributing to the development of texture and flavor.
AnnattoNeutral
Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange color. As a natural colorant, it is generally considered safe and free from significant health concerns.
Benefits
Provides natural color to cheese without the use of artificial dyes.
Processing
Processed Foods
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