Meadow Fresh Cottage Cheese

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Common questions

Is Meadow Fresh Cottage Cheese healthy?

Meadow Fresh Cottage Cheese scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cottage cheese contains beneficial ingredients like skim milk, calcium, and cultures, which contribute to its nutritional value.

How processed is Meadow Fresh Cottage Cheese?

Meadow Fresh Cottage Cheese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Meadow Fresh Cottage Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Meadow Fresh Skim Milk, Cream, Mineral Calcium count in its favor; Preservative 202 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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Meadow Fresh Cottage Cheese

Meadow Fresh
75 Good

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Goodman Fielder
Category Cheese
Summary

This cottage cheese contains beneficial ingredients like skim milk, calcium, and cultures, which contribute to its nutritional value. However, it includes synthetic additives such as potassium sorbate and thickeners, which are indicative of moderate processing. While these additives are generally safe, they detract from the product's overall healthiness compared to less processed dairy options.

Key ingredients 11

Meadow Fresh Skim Milk
Good

Skim milk is a low-fat dairy option providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein. It is minimally processed and retains most of the nutritional benefits of whole milk. Skim milk is a good source of vitamins and minerals without the added fat content.

Benefits

Provides calcium and protein essential for bone health and muscle maintenance. Low in fat, making it suitable for low-calorie diets.

Cream
Good

Traditional whole-fat dairy ingredient.

Risks

High in saturated fats, which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and texture, providing a creamy consistency to dairy products.

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Mineral Calcium
Good

Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health and metabolic functions. It is added to enhance the nutritional profile of the product. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

Benefits

Supports bone health and metabolic functions.

Cultures
Good

Cultures are beneficial bacteria used in fermentation to improve gut health. They contribute to the development of probiotics in dairy products. Fermented foods with cultures can support digestive health and enhance nutrient absorption.

Benefits

Promotes gut health and aids in digestion.

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Milk Solids
Neutral

Milk solids are concentrated milk components that provide protein and lactose. They are used to enhance the nutritional profile of dairy products. While they add nutritional value, they may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Risks

May cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Benefits

Contributes protein and essential nutrients to the product.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a common additive in processed foods. While necessary for flavor, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

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Thickeners 410, 407
Neutral

Thickeners 410 (locust bean gum) and 407 (carrageenan) are used to improve texture and stability. They are derived from natural sources but are processed for use in foods. While generally safe, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort.

Risks

May cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Improve texture and stability of the product.

Cultured Dextrose
Neutral

Cultured dextrose is used as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. It is produced by fermenting dextrose with bacteria. While it is a natural alternative to synthetic preservatives, it adds sugar content to the product.

Risks

Adds sugar content, which may be a concern for those monitoring sugar intake.

Benefits

Acts as a natural preservative and enhances flavor.

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Flavour
Neutral

Flavor is added to enhance the taste of the product. It is a broad term that can include natural or artificial components. The lack of specificity makes it difficult to assess potential health impacts.

Risks

Potential for artificial components if not specified as natural.

Benefits

Enhances the taste of the product.

Rennilase
Neutral

Rennilase, a vegetarian rennet, is used to coagulate milk in cheese production. It is an enzyme that facilitates the cheese-making process. As a vegetarian alternative, it is suitable for those avoiding animal-derived rennet.

Benefits

Facilitates cheese production and is suitable for vegetarians.

Preservative 202
Bad

Preservative 202, also known as potassium sorbate, is used to prevent mold and yeast growth. It is a synthetic additive that extends shelf life. While generally recognized as safe, it may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Risks

Potential for allergic reactions and sensitivities in some individuals.

Benefits

Extends shelf life by preventing microbial growth.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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