FANCY SHREDS MEXICAN BLEND

60 Fair
$2.98 · 8 oz
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Summary

This cheese blend is composed of multiple types of cheese with added anti-caking agents and a mold inhibitor, natamycin, which is not a natural ingredient. The product is considered ultra-processed due to the inclusion of these additives, which affects its overall healthiness despite having a relatively clean ingredient list. The presence of preservatives and processing agents limits its score, even though it provides a good source of protein and fats.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Cheese

Key ingredients 9

Monterey Jack Cheese
Neutral

Monterey Jack Cheese is a dairy product made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes. It is a source of protein and calcium but lacks significant additional health benefits due to its processing. The cheese is not organic or grass-fed, which limits its nutritional profile.

Risks

Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Benefits

Provides protein and calcium, essential for bone health and muscle function.

Cheddar Cheese
Neutral

Cheddar Cheese is made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto for color. It is a common cheese with a good protein content but is processed and not organic. The addition of annatto is for color and does not impact health significantly.

Risks

May contribute to high sodium intake and contains lactose, which can be problematic for some individuals.

Benefits

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

See more about Cheddar Cheese →
Asadero Cheese
Neutral

Asadero Cheese is a traditional Mexican cheese made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes. It is a source of protein and calcium but does not offer additional health benefits due to its processing. The cheese is not labeled as organic or grass-fed.

Risks

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

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients like protein and calcium, beneficial for bone and muscle health.

Queso Quesadilla Cheese
Neutral

Queso Quesadilla Cheese is made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes. It is a staple in Mexican cuisine, offering protein and calcium. However, it is processed and lacks organic or grass-fed certification, limiting its health benefits.

Risks

Lactose content may lead to digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains protein and calcium, important for maintaining healthy bones and muscles.

Potato Starch
Neutral

Potato Starch is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping in cheese blends. It is a processed carbohydrate with no significant nutritional value. Its primary function is to maintain product texture and quality.

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Corn Starch
Neutral

Corn Starch is another anti-caking agent used to keep cheese shreds separate. It is a refined carbohydrate with minimal nutritional impact. Its role is primarily functional, not nutritional.

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Calcium Sulfate
Neutral

Calcium Sulfate is used as a firming agent in cheese products. It is generally recognized as safe and does not significantly alter the nutritional profile of the product. Its main purpose is to improve texture.

Natamycin
Bad

Natamycin is a mold inhibitor used to extend the shelf life of cheese products. It is a preservative that can alter the natural aging process of cheese. While effective in preventing spoilage, it is not a natural ingredient.

Risks

Potential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and may disrupt natural microbial balance.

Benefits

Helps prevent mold growth, extending the product's shelf life.

Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to give cheddar cheese its characteristic orange hue. Annatto is generally considered safe and does not impact the nutritional value of the cheese.

Benefits

Provides natural color without artificial dyes.

See more about Annatto →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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