Parmesan Cheese

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Common questions

Is Parmesan Cheese healthy?

Parmesan Cheese scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This Parmesan cheese contains beneficial ingredients like high-quality protein and calcium from Parmesan cheese and pasteurized part-skim milk.

How processed is Parmesan Cheese?

Parmesan Cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Parmesan Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Parmesan Cheese, Pasteurized Part-Skim Milk, Cheese Culture count in its favor; Cellulose Powder, Potassium Sorbate 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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Parmesan Cheese

65 Fair

Analysis updated June 2026 · How Scout scores

$1.99 · 6 oz · $0.33 / ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 2
Category Cheese
Summary

This Parmesan cheese contains beneficial ingredients like high-quality protein and calcium from Parmesan cheese and pasteurized part-skim milk. However, it includes processed additives such as cellulose powder and potassium sorbate, which are used for anti-caking and preservation but do not contribute nutritional benefits. The presence of these additives and the processing level limit its score.

Key ingredients 8

Parmesan Cheese
Good

Parmesan cheese is a high-quality source of protein and calcium. It is traditionally aged, which enhances its flavor and nutritional profile. The aging process also reduces lactose content, making it easier to digest for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Risks

Contains high levels of sodium, which may be a concern for individuals with hypertension.

Benefits

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

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Pasteurized Part-Skim Milk
Good

Pasteurized part-skim milk is a primary ingredient in cheese production, providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Using part-skim milk helps reduce the fat content while maintaining nutritional value.

Benefits

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

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Cheese Culture
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Contributes to the development of flavor and texture in cheese.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese making to enhance flavor and act as a preservative. It helps control the growth of unwanted bacteria during the aging process. While necessary for cheese production, excessive salt intake can be a health concern.

Risks

High sodium intake can lead to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and enhances flavor in cheese.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used in cheese making to coagulate milk, forming curds. They are essential for the cheese production process but do not contribute significant nutritional value. The type of enzyme used can vary, including animal or microbial sources.

Benefits

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

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Natamycin
Neutral

Natamycin is a natural antifungal agent used to prevent mold growth on cheese surfaces. It is considered safe and is used in minimal amounts. While effective as a preservative, it does not contribute nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Prevents mold growth, helping to preserve cheese quality.

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Cellulose Powder
Bad

Cellulose powder is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent cheese from clumping. It is derived from plant fibers and is considered safe in small amounts. However, it is a processed additive that does not provide nutritional benefits.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to digestive issues due to its fiber content.

Benefits

Helps maintain the texture of shredded cheese by preventing clumping.

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Potassium Sorbate
Bad

Potassium sorbate is a preservative used to inhibit mold and yeast growth in cheese. It is effective in extending shelf life but is a synthetic additive. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or sensitivities to preservatives.

Risks

Potential for allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals.

Benefits

Extends the shelf life of cheese by preventing mold and yeast growth.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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