Trader joe’s lite mexican cheese blend
Near you
Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.
Summary
This cheese blend is made from reduced fat cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, which provide protein and calcium with lower fat content. The ingredient list is relatively clean, with no harmful additives or seed oils, but the product is processed, which limits its score. Trader Joe's generally avoids artificial additives, contributing positively to the product's rating.
At a glance
Key ingredients 7
Reduced fat cheddar cheeseGood
Reduced fat cheddar cheese provides a source of protein and calcium with lower fat content. It is made by removing some of the fat from regular cheddar, which can be beneficial for those monitoring fat intake. The cheese retains its essential nutrients while offering a lighter option.
Benefits
Provides protein and calcium, essential for bone health and muscle function, with reduced fat content.
Pasteurized part-skim milkGood
Pasteurized part-skim milk is a source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. Using part-skim milk reduces fat content while maintaining nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Cheese cultureNeutral
Cheese culture is used to ferment milk, aiding in the cheese-making process. It consists of beneficial bacteria that help develop flavor and texture. While it is essential for cheese production, it does not provide direct nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Contributes to the development of flavor and texture in cheese.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used to enhance flavor and act as a preservative in cheese. It is a common ingredient in cheese-making, providing taste and aiding in moisture control. While necessary for flavor, 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.
Vegetable rennetNeutral
Vegetable rennet is used to coagulate milk in cheese production, providing an alternative to animal-derived rennet. It is derived from microbial or plant sources, making it suitable for vegetarians. While essential for cheese-making, it does not offer direct nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Suitable for vegetarians and aids in the cheese-making process.
AnnattoNeutral
Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used to impart a yellow-orange hue to cheese. It is a natural alternative to synthetic dyes and is generally considered safe. While it enhances visual appeal, it does not provide nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Provides natural coloring without synthetic additives.
Reduced fat monterey jack cheeseGood
Reduced fat Monterey Jack cheese offers a source of protein and calcium with lower fat content. It is made by reducing the fat in regular Monterey Jack, making it a lighter option for those monitoring fat intake. The cheese maintains its essential nutrients while providing a milder flavor.
Benefits
Provides protein and calcium, essential for bone health and muscle function, with reduced fat content.
Processing
Processed Foods
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