Colby Jack

Common questions

Is Colby Jack healthy?

Colby Jack scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cheese product contains beneficial ingredients like Colby and Monterey Jack cheese, which provide calcium and protein.

How processed is Colby Jack?

Colby Jack is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Colby Jack's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Colby Cheese, Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Culture count in its favor; Modified Cornstarch, Natamycin are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Colby Jack

Kraft
Bioengineered
75 Good

Analysis updated June 2026 · How Scout scores

$3.99 · 8 oz · $0.50 / ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Kraft Heinz
Category Cheese
Summary

This cheese product contains beneficial ingredients like Colby and Monterey Jack cheese, which provide calcium and protein. However, the presence of modified cornstarch and natamycin indicates additional processing and the use of additives. While these additives are generally safe, they contribute to a higher processing level, which limits the overall score.

Key ingredients 10

Colby Cheese
Good

Colby cheese is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, providing a good source of calcium and protein. It is minimally processed and typically contains few additives. The cheese is known for its mild flavor and creamy texture.

Risks

Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for those with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

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

Pasteurized Milk
Good

Pasteurized milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It serves as a base for cheese production, contributing to its nutritional profile.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health.

See more about Pasteurized Milk →
Cheese Culture
Good

Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria used in the cheese-making process to develop flavor and texture. They are natural and contribute to the fermentation process. These cultures enhance the nutritional profile by potentially supporting gut health.

Benefits

May support gut health by contributing beneficial bacteria.

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Monterey Jack Cheese
Good

Monterey Jack cheese is a semi-soft cheese known for its mild flavor and creamy texture. It is made from cow's milk and provides a good source of calcium and protein. The cheese is minimally processed, contributing to its nutritional value.

Risks

Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for those with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

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

See more about Monterey Jack Cheese →
Salt
Neutral

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

Risks

Excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in cheese.

See more about Salt →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese-making to coagulate milk, forming curds. They are essential for the cheese production process and are typically derived from natural sources. Enzymes do not significantly alter the nutritional profile of cheese.

Benefits

Essential for the cheese-making process, aiding in milk coagulation.

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Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to give cheese its yellow-orange hue. It is minimally processed and does not affect the flavor of the cheese. Annatto is considered safe and is commonly used in food products.

Benefits

Provides natural color without affecting flavor.

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Vitamin A Palmitate
Neutral

Vitamin A palmitate is a synthetic form of vitamin A added to fortify foods. It is used to enhance the nutritional profile by providing vitamin A, which is essential for vision and immune function. Its addition is common in fortified foods.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to hypervitaminosis A, but this is unlikely from typical consumption.

Benefits

Provides vitamin A, supporting vision and immune health.

See more about Vitamin A Palmitate →
Modified Cornstarch
Bad

Modified cornstarch is used as a thickening agent and stabilizer in processed foods. It is highly processed and can contribute to the overall carbohydrate content without providing significant nutritional benefits. Its use in cheese may indicate additional processing.

Risks

May contribute to increased blood sugar levels and is often used in processed foods.

See more about Modified Cornstarch →
Natamycin
Bad

Natamycin is a preservative used to prevent mold growth on cheese. It is a natural antifungal agent but is still considered an additive. While generally recognized as safe, its presence indicates additional processing.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Helps prevent mold growth, extending the shelf life of cheese.

See more about Natamycin →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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