GREAT VALUE, FINELY SHREDDED FIESTA BLEND CHEESE
Near you
Great Value is carried at Walmart stores. Find one within 25 miles.
Summary
This cheese blend is made from multiple types of cheese, which are generally good sources of protein and calcium. However, the product is considered ultra-processed due to the inclusion of additives like natamycin and starches, which are used to prevent spoilage and clumping. While these additives are not harmful in small amounts, their presence, along with the high level of processing, limits the overall healthiness of the product.
At a glance
Key ingredients 8
Monterey Jack CheeseNeutral
Monterey Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes. It is a source of calcium and protein but lacks significant health benefits beyond basic nutrition. The cheese is processed but does not contain harmful additives.
Benefits
Provides calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cheddar CheeseNeutral
Cheddar cheese is a popular cheese made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color. It offers calcium and protein but is high in saturated fats. The annatto used for coloring is natural and generally considered safe.
Risks
High in saturated fats, which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function.
Asadero CheeseNeutral
Asadero cheese is a semi-soft cheese made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes. It is commonly used in Mexican cuisine and provides basic nutritional benefits like calcium and protein. The cheese is processed but does not contain harmful additives.
Benefits
Provides calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.
Quesadilla CheeseNeutral
Quesadilla cheese is a soft cheese made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes. It is used for its melting properties and provides basic nutritional benefits like calcium and protein. The cheese is processed but does not contain harmful additives.
Benefits
Provides calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.
Potato StarchNeutral
Potato starch is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent cheese shreds from sticking together. It is a refined carbohydrate with no significant nutritional benefits. The starch is processed but generally considered safe in small amounts.
See more about Potato Starch →Tapioca StarchNeutral
Tapioca starch is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent cheese shreds from clumping. It is a refined carbohydrate with minimal nutritional value. The starch is processed but generally considered safe in small amounts.
See more about Tapioca Starch →NatamycinBad
Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor used to extend the shelf life of cheese. While it is effective in preventing spoilage, it is an additive that may not be necessary in fresh, high-quality products. Its use is generally safe but may contribute to the perception of over-processing.
Risks
May contribute to antibiotic resistance if overused, though this risk is minimal in food applications.
Benefits
Effectively prevents mold growth, extending the shelf life of cheese products.
AnnattoNeutral
Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to give cheddar cheese its characteristic orange color. Annatto is generally considered safe and does not significantly impact the nutritional profile of the cheese.
Benefits
Provides natural color without the use of synthetic dyes.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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