GOUDA CHEESE

70 Good
$5.49 · 8 oz
View on Amazon
Verified Amazon match

Summary

This Gouda cheese is made from pasteurized part-skim milk, which provides essential proteins and calcium, and uses cultures and microbial rennet for fermentation, contributing to its flavor and texture. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the inclusion of annatto for coloring and its processing level, which limits its score despite the relatively clean ingredient list. The presence of only one additive is a positive aspect, but the processing level imposes a cap on the score.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Category Cheese

Key ingredients 5

Pasteurized part-skim milk
Good

This is the primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential proteins and calcium. Pasteurization ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Using part-skim milk reduces fat content while maintaining nutritional value.

Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle function.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and preservation. It helps control moisture and bacterial growth during aging. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake may contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.

See more about Salt →
Culture
Good

Cultures are essential for cheese fermentation, contributing to flavor and texture. They help in the development of beneficial bacteria. This ingredient is crucial for the cheese-making process.

Benefits

Promotes the development of beneficial bacteria, aiding digestion and flavor enhancement.

Microbial rennet
Neutral

Microbial rennet is used to coagulate milk, forming curds. It is a vegetarian alternative to animal rennet. This ingredient is essential for cheese production.

Benefits

Allows for cheese production without animal-derived rennet, suitable for vegetarians.

See more about Microbial rennet →
Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from seeds. It is used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange hue. This ingredient is generally considered safe and natural.

Risks

In rare cases, may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides natural color without synthetic dyes.

See more about Annatto →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout app

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store