GOUDA CHEESE

Common questions

Is GOUDA CHEESE healthy?

GOUDA CHEESE scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This Gouda cheese is made from pasteurized part-skim milk, salt, culture, microbial rennet, and annatto, which are typical ingredients for traditional cheese.

How processed is GOUDA CHEESE?

GOUDA CHEESE is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

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GOUDA CHEESE

70 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 0
Category Cheese
Summary

This Gouda cheese is made from pasteurized part-skim milk, salt, culture, microbial rennet, and annatto, which are typical ingredients for traditional cheese. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to its processing level, which limits its maximum score. Despite this, the ingredient list is relatively clean with only one additive, annatto, used for coloring, and no harmful substances, which helps maintain a higher score within its category.

Key ingredients 5

Pasteurized part-skim milk
Neutral

Pasteurized part-skim milk is a common base for cheese, providing essential proteins and calcium. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. However, it lacks the full fat content and potential probiotic benefits of raw milk.

Benefits

Provides a good source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and as a preservative. It is a refined ingredient without the trace minerals found in unrefined salts. Excessive consumption can contribute to high blood pressure.

Risks

High sodium intake can lead to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.

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Culture
Neutral

Cultures are essential for cheese fermentation, contributing to flavor and texture development. They are generally considered safe and beneficial for the fermentation process. The specific strains used can vary, affecting the final product's characteristics.

Benefits

Facilitates fermentation, enhancing flavor and texture in cheese.

Microbial rennet
Neutral

Microbial rennet is a vegetarian alternative to traditional animal rennet used in cheese making. It is derived from microbial sources and is effective in coagulating milk. This ingredient is suitable for vegetarians and does not carry the ethical concerns of animal-derived rennet.

Benefits

Suitable for vegetarians and effectively coagulates milk in cheese production.

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Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to impart a yellow-orange color to cheese. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience allergic reactions.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides natural color without synthetic dyes.

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Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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