Big Slice Sharp Cheddar

Common questions

Is Big Slice Sharp Cheddar healthy?

Big Slice Sharp Cheddar scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This product is a traditional cheese made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes, with annatto added for color.

How processed is Big Slice Sharp Cheddar?

Big Slice Sharp Cheddar is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Big Slice Sharp Cheddar's score?

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

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Big Slice Sharp Cheddar

Kraft
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Kraft Heinz
Category Cheese
Summary

This product is a traditional cheese made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes, with annatto added for color. The ingredient list is clean and minimal, which is typical for traditional cheeses. However, due to its processing level, the score is capped, but it remains a high-quality option within its category.

Key ingredients 5

Cheese culture
Good

Cheese culture is used to ferment milk, aiding in the development of flavor and texture in cheese. It consists of beneficial bacteria that can support gut health. This ingredient is essential for traditional cheese-making, contributing positively to the nutritional profile.

Benefits

Contains beneficial bacteria that may support digestive health and enhance the flavor profile of the cheese.

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Pasteurized milk
Neutral

Pasteurized milk is a common base for cheese, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process kills harmful bacteria but may reduce some beneficial enzymes. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production, offering a neutral impact on health.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients such as calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle function.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and as a preservative. It is a necessary component in cheese-making but should be consumed in moderation due to potential health concerns. While it enhances taste, excessive intake 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 used in cheese-making to coagulate milk, forming curds. They are crucial for the cheese-making process but do not significantly impact health directly. Typically derived from animal or microbial sources, they are a standard part of cheese production.

Benefits

Essential for the cheese-making process, aiding in the formation of curds.

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Annatto
Bad

Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to give cheese a yellow-orange hue. While natural, it can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It is used for aesthetic purposes and does not contribute to nutritional value.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides a natural color to cheese without synthetic additives.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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