Is MOD Pizza's Mozzarella Considered 'Real'?
Yes, MOD Pizza's mozzarella is considered real cheese, as it is made from cultured pasteurized milk. To understand this, it's important to distinguish between 'real' and 'processed' cheese. Real cheese, like that used at MOD, starts with milk, which is curdled using enzymes, and then the curds are separated from the whey. The list of ingredients provided by MOD Pizza for their mozzarella includes cultured pasteurized milk, salt, and enzymes, confirming its authentic origins. However, the ingredient list also notes the addition of powdered cellulose, which is a common, plant-derived anti-caking agent that prevents the shredded cheese from clumping together. The addition of an anti-caking agent is a normal practice in the food industry for shredded cheeses and does not negate its status as real cheese.
How MOD's Mozzarella Stacks Up Against Traditional Versions
While MOD's mozzarella is a genuine dairy product, it differs from fresh mozzarella that is often sold in balls and packed in brine, like the kind one might use for a traditional Caprese salad. Fresh mozzarella is typically prized for its soft, milky texture and clean flavor. The shredded mozzarella used on most pizzas, including those at MOD, is designed for even melting and consistent coverage, which is why it includes anti-caking agents and a natural mold inhibitor called natamycin. This functional aspect of shredded mozzarella cheese makes it the ideal choice for a fast-casual pizza setting where consistent cooking and melting performance is key to a high-quality product served quickly.
What are the Cheese Options at MOD Pizza?
MOD offers a diverse selection of cheeses to build your perfect pizza, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. The available options go beyond just mozzarella, allowing for various flavor combinations. Customers can mix and match different cheeses or pile on a single favorite to customize their creation.
Here is a comprehensive list of the cheese options available at MOD Pizza, sourced from their official allergen and menu pages:
- Asiago: A hard cheese made from pasteurized cultured milk, with a sharper, nuttier flavor profile.
- Cheddar: Mild cheddar cheese that adds a familiar, creamy taste.
- Feta: A salty, tangy cheese made from part-skim milk.
- Gorgonzola: A piquant, rich, and creamy blue cheese option.
- Mozzarella: The classic pizza cheese, known for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties.
- Parmesan: A hard, salty Italian cheese used for its robust flavor.
- Ricotta: A soft, creamy cheese often used in dollops for a rich texture.
- Plant-Based Cheese: A dairy-free and vegan alternative made from a Daiya oat crem™ blend.
The Importance of Additives in Shredded Cheese
As mentioned, many of MOD Pizza’s dairy-based shredded cheeses contain powdered cellulose to prevent caking. This is a crucial step in the production of many pre-shredded cheeses on the market. Without it, the cheese would stick together in a dense block, making it difficult to sprinkle evenly on a pizza. The addition of natamycin, a natural mold inhibitor, also helps to extend the product's shelf life. These additions are safe for consumption and are not an indication that the cheese is “fake” or not a real dairy product. They simply enhance the usability and safety of the product for both the restaurant and the end consumer.
Exploring the Vegan and Dairy-Free Cheese Option
For those with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or who follow a vegan lifestyle, MOD Pizza provides a plant-based cheese option from the brand Daiya. The ingredient list for this alternative is entirely dairy-free, featuring ingredients like oat flour, pea protein, tapioca starch, and coconut oil. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that a wider range of customers can enjoy a customizable pizza experience. The recipe for Daiya's cheese has been updated over the years to improve its melt and flavor, and recent reviews have noted that the product has improved significantly, making it a viable and tasty alternative for dairy-free diets.
Comparison: MOD Pizza Dairy Cheese vs. Daiya Plant-Based
| Feature | MOD Pizza Dairy Cheeses (e.g., Mozzarella, Asiago) | MOD Pizza Daiya Plant-Based Cheese |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredient | Cultured pasteurized milk | Oat crem blend (oat flour, pea protein), tapioca starch, coconut oil |
| Allergen | Contains milk | Dairy-free, nut-free (may contain coconut oil) |
| Melting Performance | Designed for consistent, even melting on pizzas | Engineered to melt and stretch similarly to dairy cheese |
| Flavor Profile | Traditional dairy flavors (mild for mozzarella, sharp for asiago, etc.) | Savory, cheese-like flavor without the dairy base |
| Key Additives | Powdered cellulose (anti-caking), Natamycin (mold inhibitor) | Tapioca starch (thickening agent), lactic acid (tangy flavor) |
| Suitable For | General consumption | Vegans, dairy-free diets, lactose intolerance |
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on MOD Pizza Cheese
In summary, the answer to "does MOD Pizza use real cheese?" is a definitive yes for their dairy-based options. These cheeses, such as mozzarella, parmesan, and feta, are made from milk and feature ingredients consistent with authentic cheese production, with common, safe additives like powdered cellulose used to improve handling. Furthermore, for those who cannot or choose not to consume dairy, MOD provides a high-quality, plant-based cheese option from Daiya. This makes MOD an accommodating choice for a wide variety of diners, from traditionalists who love classic cheese to vegans and those with specific dietary restrictions. The company's transparency regarding its ingredients ensures customers can make informed decisions about what they eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all of MOD Pizza's cheeses real dairy products?
Yes, all of MOD Pizza's dairy-based cheeses, including mozzarella, parmesan, and cheddar, are real, milk-derived products. The only cheese option that is not dairy-based is their plant-based cheese.
What is powdered cellulose and why is it in my cheese?
Powdered cellulose is a common food additive derived from plant fibers, used primarily as an anti-caking agent. It prevents pre-shredded cheeses from clumping together, ensuring an even distribution on your pizza. It is considered safe for consumption.
Is MOD's plant-based cheese a healthy alternative?
MOD's plant-based cheese is a good alternative for those who are vegan or dairy-free. Nutritional information varies, so it's best to check the specific calorie and fat content on their menu. Many people choose it for dietary reasons rather than strictly health-related ones.
Is the parmesan cheese at MOD Pizza real parmesan?
Yes, the parmesan cheese is real, made from pasteurized part-skim cow's milk with cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes. This is the standard composition for authentic parmesan.
Do all MOD Pizza locations carry all the cheese options?
While most standard cheese options are available system-wide, some limited-time or regional offerings may vary. Checking the menu at your specific location or asking a team member is the best way to confirm availability.
How does MOD's cheese melt compared to other pizza places?
MOD's mozzarella is formulated for consistent, even melting, which is ideal for their fast-bake process. The added anti-caking agents help maintain its texture during cooking, resulting in a reliable melt every time. Some gourmet pizzerias use fresh mozzarella, which melts differently, often becoming more watery.
How do I know which cheese is on my favorite MOD pizza?
If you order one of MOD's classic pizzas, the menu item description lists the specific cheeses used. For customized pizzas, you choose your own combination of cheeses, so you will know exactly what you get.
Is there a gluten-free cheese option at MOD Pizza?
All of MOD Pizza's cheese options, both dairy and plant-based, are naturally gluten-free. The gluten in their pizzas comes from the standard crust, not the cheese. MOD also offers a gluten-friendly crust option.
