Sharp Cheddar

Common questions

Is Sharp Cheddar healthy?

Sharp Cheddar scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This sharp cheddar cheese is made from cultured milk, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color, which are traditional ingredients for cheese production.

How processed is Sharp Cheddar?

Sharp Cheddar is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

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Sharp Cheddar

Sprouts
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Sprouts Farmers Market
Category Cheese
Summary

This sharp cheddar cheese is made from cultured milk, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color, which are traditional ingredients for cheese production. It is a processed food, but the ingredient list is clean and free from harmful additives or seed oils, allowing it to score well within its category. The processing level limits its maximum score, but the absence of artificial additives and the use of whole food ingredients contribute positively to its rating.

Key ingredients 4

Cultured milk
Neutral

Cultured milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential proteins and fats. It undergoes fermentation, which can enhance digestibility and flavor. However, without specific quality indicators like organic or grass-fed, it remains neutral.

Risks

Potential lactose intolerance issues for sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides proteins and fats essential for nutrition and energy.

See more about Cultured milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and preservation. It is a common ingredient in processed foods and does not provide additional nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

See more about Salt →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese production to aid in coagulation and flavor development. They are essential for the cheesemaking process but do not provide direct nutritional benefits. The type of enzymes used is not specified, which affects the assessment.

Benefits

Essential for the cheesemaking process, aiding in texture and flavor development.

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Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural colorant derived from seeds, used to give cheese its characteristic color. It is generally considered safe and does not impact the nutritional profile of the product. Its use is primarily for aesthetic purposes.

Risks

Rare allergic reactions have been reported in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides natural coloring without artificial additives.

See more about Annatto →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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