Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS

Daiya
35 Poor

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Organic Valley Grassmilk Raw Cheddar Organic Valley · 8 oz 93 View on Amazon · $9.99 See all Cheese, ranked

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 4
Owned by DAIYA
Category Cheese
Summary

This product is ultra-processed, containing multiple additives and ingredients like safflower oil, which is high in omega-6 fatty acids and can promote inflammation. The presence of xanthan gum and natural flavors further indicates a high level of processing. While it includes coconut oil, a healthier fat, the overall ingredient quality and processing level significantly impact its health rating.

Key ingredients 19

Expeller pressed safflower oil
Very Bad

Safflower oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which may promote inflammation. Expeller pressing is a mechanical extraction method that is less harmful than chemical extraction but still results in a refined oil. It is considered unhealthy due to its fatty acid profile.

Risks

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.

See more about Expeller pressed safflower oil →
Yeast extract
Bad

Concentrated glutamate source — MSG-adjacent flavor enhancer.

Risks

May contain naturally occurring glutamates, which some individuals are sensitive to.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and provides a source of B vitamins.

See more about Yeast extract →
Dextrose
Bad

Dextrose is a simple sugar used as a sweetener and carbohydrate source. It is rapidly absorbed and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. It is often used in processed foods for sweetness and energy.

Risks

May contribute to blood sugar spikes and insulin resistance when consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides a quick source of energy but lacks nutritional benefits.

See more about Dextrose →
Natural flavors
Bad

Natural flavors are a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources. They are highly processed and lack transparency in their composition. They are used to enhance flavor but do not provide nutritional benefits.

Risks

Lack of transparency may pose risks for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.

Benefits

Enhances flavor but lacks nutritional value.

See more about Natural flavors →
Water
Neutral

Water is a neutral ingredient used as a solvent and carrier in food products. It does not contribute any nutritional value but is essential for texture and consistency. It is a common and safe ingredient in many processed foods.

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Pea protein
Neutral

Pea protein is a plant-based protein source that offers a good amino acid profile. It is less processed than some other plant proteins but may have lower bioavailability compared to animal proteins. It is used to enhance the protein content of plant-based products.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals due to its fiber content.

Benefits

Provides a plant-based protein source that is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

See more about Pea protein →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used to catalyze reactions in food processing, such as breaking down proteins or fats. They are naturally occurring and essential in many food production processes. They help achieve desired textures and flavors.

Benefits

Facilitate the breakdown of food components, aiding in digestion and processing.

See more about Enzymes →
Tapioca starch
Neutral

Tapioca starch is a refined carbohydrate used as a thickener and stabilizer. It is derived from the cassava root and is gluten-free. It provides texture and consistency to the product.

Risks

High consumption of refined carbohydrates may contribute to blood sugar spikes.

Benefits

Provides a gluten-free thickening agent suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

See more about Tapioca starch →
Corn starch
Neutral

Corn starch is a refined carbohydrate used as a thickener and stabilizer. It is widely used in food processing for its ability to improve texture. It is a common ingredient in many processed foods.

Risks

High consumption of refined carbohydrates may contribute to blood sugar spikes.

Benefits

Provides a thickening agent that enhances texture and consistency.

See more about Corn starch →
Calcium phosphate
Neutral

Calcium phosphate is used as a mineral supplement and acidity regulator. It provides calcium, which is essential for bone health. It is commonly used in fortified foods.

Risks

Excessive intake may lead to imbalances in mineral absorption.

Benefits

Provides a source of calcium, supporting bone health and mineral balance.

See more about Calcium phosphate →
Konjac flour
Neutral

Konjac flour is a soluble fiber used as a thickener and stabilizer. It is derived from the konjac plant and is known for its high fiber content. It contributes to the texture and satiety of the product.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort or bloating in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

High in soluble fiber, which may aid in digestion and promote satiety.

See more about Konjac flour →
Fruit and vegetable juice
Neutral

Fruit and vegetable juice is used for natural coloring in food products. It is a minimally processed alternative to artificial dyes. It provides color without significant nutritional impact.

Benefits

Provides natural coloring without the use of artificial dyes.

See more about Fruit and vegetable juice →
Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to impart a yellow to orange color in foods. It is a natural alternative to synthetic dyes.

Benefits

Provides natural coloring without the use of synthetic dyes.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a seasoning and preservative in food products. It is essential for flavor enhancement and preservation. It is a common ingredient in processed foods.

Risks

Excessive sodium intake may contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

See more about Salt →
Xanthan gum
Neutral

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide used as a thickener and stabilizer. It is produced through fermentation and is widely used in food processing. It improves texture and consistency in various products.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals when consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in food products.

See more about Xanthan gum →
Lactic acid
Neutral

Lactic acid is used as a preservative and acidity regulator. It is naturally occurring and produced through fermentation. It helps maintain the pH and shelf life of the product.

Benefits

Helps preserve food and maintain its acidity.

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Gluten-free oat flour
Good

Gluten-free oat flour is a whole grain ingredient that provides dietary fiber and nutrients. It is minimally processed and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. It contributes to the texture and nutritional profile of the product.

Risks

Potential cross-contamination with gluten-containing grains if not certified gluten-free.

Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and provides a source of essential nutrients.

See more about Gluten-free oat flour →
Cultures
Good

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

Benefits

May contribute to gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria.

See more about Cultures →
Coconut oil
Good

Coconut oil is a source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may support metabolism. It is less processed than many seed oils and provides a stable fat source. It contributes to the creamy texture of the product.

Risks

High in saturated fats, which may impact heart health if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Contains MCTs that may support energy metabolism and provide a stable cooking fat.

See more about Coconut oil →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price for Organic Valley Grassmilk Raw Cheddar as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS

Common questions

Is Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS healthy?

Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS scores 35/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the lower scores in Scout's catalog. This product is ultra-processed, containing multiple additives and ingredients like safflower oil, which is high in omega-6 fatty acids and can promote inflammation.

How processed is Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS?

Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

How does Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS compare to other cheeses?

Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS ranks #58 of 59 cheeses in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is Organic Valley Grassmilk Raw Cheddar at 93/100.

Which ingredients drive Daiya CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Gluten-free oat flour, Cultures, Coconut oil count in its favor; Expeller pressed safflower oil, Yeast extract, Dextrose are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

Healthy alternatives

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