Monterey Jack cheese

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Monterey Jack cheese healthy?

Monterey Jack cheese scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. Monterey Jack cheese is a processed food with a moderate level of processing, which limits its maximum score.

How processed is Monterey Jack cheese?

Monterey Jack cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Monterey Jack cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Culture 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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Monterey Jack cheese

Happy Farms
65 Fair

Analysis updated June 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Aldi
Category Cheese
Summary

Monterey Jack cheese is a processed food with a moderate level of processing, which limits its maximum score. The primary ingredient, pasteurized milk, provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein. However, the presence of anti-caking agents, such as potato and tapioca starch, detracts from the natural quality of the cheese, impacting its overall healthiness.

Key ingredients 8

Pasteurized Milk
Good

Provides high-quality dairy base essential for cheese flavor and texture.

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Cheese Culture
Good

Contains beneficial bacteria that help develop the cheese's flavor and texture.

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Salt
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

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Microbial Enzymes
Neutral

Assist in cheese aging and texture development without adding flavor or health concerns.

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Anti-Caking Blend
Neutral

Prevents clumping in powdered or grated cheese, ensuring product quality.

Potato Starch
Neutral

Used as a stabilizer to prevent caking and improve texture.

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Tapioca Starch
Neutral

Acts as a thickening agent to improve consistency and texture.

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Natamycin
Neutral

A natural preservative that inhibits mold growth, extending shelf life.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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