Feta

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Common questions

Is Feta healthy?

Feta scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This feta cheese is made from pasteurized milk, salt, cultures, and non-animal rennet, which are typical ingredients for traditional cheese.

How processed is Feta?

Feta is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Feta's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cultures counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Feta

South Cape
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited
Category Cheese
Summary

This feta cheese is made from pasteurized milk, salt, cultures, and non-animal rennet, which are typical ingredients for traditional cheese. The product is processed, but it maintains a clean ingredient list without harmful additives or seed oils. Its high sodium content is a consideration, but it remains a relatively healthy choice within its category.

Key ingredients 5

Cultures
Good

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

Benefits

Aid in the fermentation process, enhancing flavor and texture of the cheese.

See more about Cultures →
Pasteurised milk
Neutral

Pasteurised milk is a primary ingredient in cheese, providing essential proteins and fats. The pasteurization process kills harmful bacteria but may reduce some beneficial enzymes. It is a standard ingredient in cheese production, offering a balanced nutritional profile.

Risks

Some individuals may be lactose intolerant or allergic to milk proteins.

Benefits

Provides a source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in cheese for flavor and preservation. It is a common ingredient that helps control moisture and bacterial growth. While necessary in cheese production, excessive consumption 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.

See more about Salt →
Mineral salt
Neutral

Mineral salt (509) is used as a firming agent in cheese production. It helps maintain the texture and structure of the cheese. It is a common additive in processed foods and does not significantly impact health when consumed in moderation.

Risks

Excessive consumption of processed foods with additives can lead to health concerns.

Benefits

Helps maintain the desired texture and firmness in cheese.

See more about Mineral salt →
Non-animal rennet
Neutral

Non-animal rennet is used to coagulate milk in cheese-making, suitable for vegetarians. It is derived from microbial or plant sources and is a standard alternative to animal rennet. This ingredient is essential for cheese production and does not pose significant health risks.

Benefits

Allows for cheese production without animal-derived rennet, making it suitable for vegetarians.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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