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Kirkland Signature Sharp Cheddar Cheese

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Common questions

Is Kirkland Signature Sharp Cheddar Cheese healthy?

Kirkland Signature Sharp Cheddar Cheese scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cheddar cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk, salt, enzymes, and annatto for coloring.

How processed is Kirkland Signature Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

Kirkland Signature Sharp Cheddar Cheese is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Kirkland Signature Sharp Cheddar Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cultured Pasteurized Milk counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Kirkland Signature Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Kirkland Signature
60 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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Near you

Kirkland Signature is carried at Costco stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Costco
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheddar cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk, salt, enzymes, and annatto for coloring. While it contains beneficial ingredients like milk, the presence of annatto as a coloring agent and its classification as ultra-processed limit its score. Despite its good nutritional profile, the processing level imposes a cap on its rating.

Key ingredients 4

Cultured Pasteurized Milk
Good

Cultured pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Culturing enhances flavor and digestibility.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.

See more about Cultured Pasteurized Milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and preservation. It is a common ingredient in many foods and is necessary for certain bodily functions. However, excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.

See more about Salt →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese production to aid in coagulation and flavor development. They are typically derived from microbial or plant sources. Their role is crucial in transforming milk into cheese.

Benefits

Facilitate the cheese-making process and enhance flavor development.

See more about Enzymes →
Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to impart a yellow-orange hue to cheese. As a natural colorant, it is generally considered safe.

Risks

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or sensitivities to annatto.

Benefits

Provides natural color without synthetic additives.

See more about Annatto →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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