Queso panela

FUD
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Summary

This cheese product contains beneficial ingredients like whole cow's milk and cream, which provide essential nutrients and good fats. However, it is heavily processed with additives such as carrageenan and potassium sorbate, which are associated with potential health concerns. The presence of multiple synthetic additives and its high processing level significantly impact its overall healthiness despite the presence of some quality ingredients.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 3
Owned by Alfa
Category Cheese

Key ingredients 14

Whole cow's milk
Good

Whole cow's milk is a primary source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients. It provides calcium, vitamin D, and other vital nutrients that support bone health. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria.

Risks

Potential lactose intolerance or milk allergy in some individuals.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health and providing essential amino acids for muscle maintenance.

See more about Whole cow's milk →
Reconstituted skim milk
Neutral

Reconstituted skim milk is used to adjust the fat content while maintaining protein levels. It lacks the full nutrient profile of whole milk due to reduced fat content. Often used in processed foods to balance texture and nutritional content.

Risks

May contain fewer fat-soluble vitamins compared to whole milk.

Benefits

Provides protein with reduced fat content, suitable for low-fat dietary needs.

Cream
Good

Cream adds richness and enhances the flavor profile of dairy products. It is a source of fat-soluble vitamins like A and D. When derived from high-quality milk, it contributes to a creamy texture and taste.

Risks

High in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and texture, providing fat-soluble vitamins and energy.

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Iodized salt
Neutral

Iodized salt is used to enhance flavor and provide essential iodine. Iodine is crucial for thyroid function and metabolic regulation. The addition of iodine helps prevent deficiencies in populations with low dietary iodine intake.

Risks

Excessive sodium intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Provides essential iodine, supporting thyroid health and metabolic function.

Butyric fat
Good

Butyric fat is a short-chain fatty acid beneficial for gut health. It supports the integrity of the intestinal lining and has anti-inflammatory properties. Found naturally in butter and other dairy products.

Benefits

Supports gut health and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Caseinates
Neutral

Caseinates are milk proteins used to improve texture and nutritional content. They provide a slow-digesting protein source, beneficial for muscle maintenance. Commonly used in processed foods for their emulsifying properties.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals with milk protein allergies.

Benefits

Provides a slow-digesting protein source, beneficial for muscle maintenance.

Calcium chloride
Neutral

Calcium chloride is used in cheese making to improve curd formation. It helps maintain the firmness and texture of the cheese. It is generally recognized as safe when used in food processing.

Benefits

Enhances curd formation and maintains cheese texture.

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Glycerol monostearate
Bad

Glycerol monostearate is an emulsifier used to improve texture and stability in processed foods. It is a synthetic compound derived from glycerol and stearic acid. Overuse of emulsifiers can disrupt gut microbiota balance.

Risks

May disrupt gut microbiota balance when consumed in excess.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in processed foods.

Carrageenan
Bad

Carrageenan is a thickening agent derived from red seaweed, used to improve texture. It has been associated with gastrointestinal inflammation in some studies. Its use in processed foods is controversial due to potential health concerns.

Risks

May cause gastrointestinal inflammation and discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in food products.

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Locust bean gum
Neutral

Locust bean gum is a natural thickener derived from carob seeds. It is used to stabilize and thicken food products. Generally considered safe, it is a common additive in processed foods.

Benefits

Provides natural thickening and stabilizing properties.

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Potassium sorbate
Bad

Potassium sorbate is a preservative used to inhibit mold and yeast growth. It is a synthetic compound that extends shelf life but may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Its use is common in processed foods to maintain freshness.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Extends shelf life by inhibiting mold and yeast growth.

See more about Potassium sorbate →
Natamycin
Neutral

Natamycin is a natural antifungal agent used to prevent spoilage in dairy products. It is derived from natural sources and is effective in small quantities. Generally recognized as safe, it helps maintain product quality.

Benefits

Prevents spoilage and extends shelf life of dairy products.

Rennet
Good

Rennet is an enzyme used in cheese making to coagulate milk. It is essential for the cheese-making process, contributing to texture and flavor development. Traditionally sourced from animal stomachs, microbial and vegetarian alternatives are available.

Benefits

Essential for cheese coagulation, contributing to texture and flavor.

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Calcium carbonate
Neutral

Calcium carbonate is used as a calcium supplement and acidity regulator in food products. It provides a source of calcium, supporting bone health. Commonly used in fortified foods to enhance nutritional content.

Risks

Excessive intake may lead to hypercalcemia or kidney stones.

Benefits

Provides a source of calcium, supporting bone health.

See more about Calcium carbonate →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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