Simply medium cheddar cheese

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Common questions

Is Simply medium cheddar cheese healthy?

Simply medium cheddar cheese scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This cheddar cheese is made with a simple and traditional ingredient list, including pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color.

How processed is Simply medium cheddar cheese?

Simply medium cheddar cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Simply medium cheddar cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cheese culture counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Simply medium cheddar cheese

Simply
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by PepsiCo
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheddar cheese is made with a simple and traditional ingredient list, including pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color. The product is processed but maintains a clean label without any harmful additives or seed oils, which supports a higher score within its category. The use of natural ingredients and the absence of artificial additives contribute positively to its rating, although the processing level imposes a cap on the score.

Key ingredients 5

Cheese culture
Good

Cheese culture is used to ferment milk, aiding in the development of flavor and texture. It consists of beneficial bacteria that can improve gut health. The fermentation process enhances the nutritional profile of the cheese.

Benefits

Contributes to the development of probiotics, which support digestive health.

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Pasteurized milk
Neutral

Pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential proteins and fats. The pasteurization process kills harmful bacteria but may reduce some beneficial enzymes. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production, offering a balanced nutritional profile.

Risks

Some individuals may be lactose intolerant or allergic to milk proteins.

Benefits

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

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and preservation. It is a common ingredient in cheese-making, helping to control moisture and inhibit bacterial growth. While necessary for flavor, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are crucial in cheese-making, aiding in the coagulation of milk. They help develop the texture and flavor of the cheese. Typically derived from animal or microbial sources, they are essential for cheese production.

Benefits

Facilitates the cheese-making process, contributing to the texture and flavor.

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Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to give cheese its characteristic yellow-orange color. As a natural colorant, it is generally considered safe and free from significant health concerns.

Risks

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

Benefits

Provides a natural color without the use of artificial dyes.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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