Monterey Jack Cheese

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Common questions

Is Monterey Jack Cheese healthy?

Monterey 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. Monterey Jack Cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk, salt, and enzymes, which are traditional ingredients for cheese.

How processed is Monterey Jack Cheese?

Monterey Jack Cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

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Monterey Jack Cheese

Kirkland
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

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

Monterey Jack Cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk, salt, and enzymes, which are traditional ingredients for cheese. Despite being classified as processed, it maintains a clean label with no harmful additives or seed oils, contributing to its favorable rating. The simplicity and quality of its ingredients allow it to score well within its category, although it is capped due to its processing level.

Key ingredients 3

Cultured pasteurized milk
Neutral

Cultured pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential proteins and fats. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria, but it may reduce some beneficial bacteria. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production, offering a balance of nutrients.

Benefits

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

See more about Cultured pasteurized milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese making to enhance flavor and act as a preservative. It is a common ingredient in processed foods, contributing to sodium intake. While necessary for flavor, excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular risk.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese, extending shelf life.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese production to aid in the coagulation of milk, forming curds. They are essential for the cheese-making process but do not contribute significant nutritional value. Typically derived from microbial or animal sources, they are standard in cheese production.

Benefits

Essential for the cheese-making process, aiding in milk coagulation and curd formation.

See more about Enzymes →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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