Parmigiano Reggiano

Common questions

Is Parmigiano Reggiano healthy?

Parmigiano Reggiano scores 88/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. Parmigiano Reggiano is made from part-skimmed cow's milk, cheese cultures, salt, and rennet, which are traditional ingredients for cheese production.

How processed is Parmigiano Reggiano?

Parmigiano Reggiano is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Parmigiano Reggiano's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Part-Skimmed Cow's Milk, Cheese Cultures, Rennet count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Parmigiano Reggiano

Costco
88 Excellent

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 0
Category Cheese
Summary

Parmigiano Reggiano is made from part-skimmed cow's milk, cheese cultures, salt, and rennet, which are traditional ingredients for cheese production. The product is minimally processed, retaining its nutritional benefits such as high protein content and essential nutrients. Although it is classified as processed, the clean ingredient list and traditional cheesemaking process contribute to its high score.

Key ingredients 4

Part-Skimmed Cow's Milk
Good

Part-skimmed cow's milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. It is less processed than whole milk, retaining most of its nutritional benefits. The milk used in Parmigiano Reggiano is typically from cows fed a natural diet, enhancing its quality.

Risks

Potential risks include lactose intolerance or milk allergies in some individuals.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. Contains beneficial fats and vitamins like A and D.

Cheese Cultures
Good

Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria used in the fermentation process of cheese. They enhance the flavor and texture of the cheese while contributing to its probiotic content. These cultures are essential for the development of Parmigiano Reggiano's characteristic taste.

Benefits

May support gut health due to probiotic properties. Contributes to the unique flavor and texture of the cheese.

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Rennet
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Essential for the cheese-making process, allowing milk to form curds and whey.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese making to enhance flavor and act as a preservative. It is a necessary component in the cheese aging process. While it does not provide additional nutritional benefits, it is crucial for the development of cheese.

Risks

Excessive consumption of salt can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and enhances the flavor profile of the cheese.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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