Sharp Cheddar Cheese

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Common questions

Is Sharp Cheddar Cheese healthy?

Sharp Cheddar Cheese scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This sharp cheddar cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk, salt, enzymes, and annatto for coloring.

How processed is Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

Sharp Cheddar Cheese is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Sharp Cheddar Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cultured pasteurized milk counts in its favor; Annatto is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Sprouts Farmers Market
60 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

$9.99 · 1 pack · $9.99 / count
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Sprouts Farmers Market
Category Cheese
Summary

This sharp cheddar cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk, salt, enzymes, and annatto for coloring. While it contains beneficial nutrients like protein and calcium, the presence of annatto, a natural colorant, can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Despite its simple ingredient list, the cheese is classified as ultra-processed, which limits its score potential.

Key ingredients 4

Cultured pasteurized milk
Good

Cultured pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Culturing enhances flavor and digestibility.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. Culturing improves digestibility and adds beneficial probiotics.

See more about Cultured pasteurized milk →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and as a preservative. It is a common ingredient in many foods and provides essential sodium. However, excessive intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake may contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Provides essential sodium necessary for various bodily functions.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese production to aid in coagulation and flavor development. They are essential for transforming milk into cheese. Typically derived from animal or microbial sources.

Benefits

Facilitates the cheese-making process and enhances flavor development.

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Annatto
Bad

Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to give cheese its orange hue. While natural, it can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It is not essential for nutritional value.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions or food sensitivities in some individuals.

Benefits

Provides a natural color without synthetic dyes.

See more about Annatto →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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