Is Great Value Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese Gluten-Free?

According to Walmart's official product page, Great Value shredded mild cheddar cheese is labeled as a "naturally gluten-free food". While most natural cheeses are inherently gluten-free, the processing of shredded cheese can sometimes introduce additives, making careful examination necessary for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Quick Summary

This guide details whether Great Value's shredded mild cheddar cheese is gluten-free by examining its ingredients, identifying anti-caking agents, and considering the risks of cross-contamination in processing. It provides clarity for those on a strict gluten-free diet.

Key Points

• Gluten-Free Status: Great Value shredded mild cheddar cheese is explicitly labeled as gluten-free on its official product page.

• Safe Anti-Caking Agents: The ingredients confirm the use of gluten-free potato starch and powdered cellulose to prevent clumping, not wheat-based starches.

• Ingredient Transparency: The full ingredient list is publicly available, allowing for easy verification of its gluten-free status.

• Low Cross-Contamination Risk: The gluten-free labeling implies the product meets FDA standards, minimizing the risk of contamination for most consumers.

• Due Diligence Advised: For individuals with high gluten sensitivity, checking the label and considering manufacturer processes for cross-contamination is still prudent.

Understanding Gluten in Cheese

While cheese, in its most basic form, is a naturally gluten-free food made from milk, cultures, and enzymes, the process of manufacturing and adding ingredients can introduce gluten into the final product. This is especially true for processed cheeses, flavored varieties, and pre-shredded products. For individuals with celiac disease or a non-celiac gluten sensitivity, vigilance is key.

The Great Value Labeling

Walmart's Great Value brand is explicit in its labeling. The product page for Great Value Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese lists it as "naturally gluten-free food". This declaration is a strong indicator of its safety for a gluten-free diet. The ingredient list for this specific product includes Cheddar Cheese (Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Enzymes, Annatto [Color]), Potato Starch and Powdered Cellulose Added to Prevent Caking, and Natamycin (a Natural Mold Inhibitor). None of these ingredients are derived from gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, or rye.

The Role of Anti-Caking Agents

One of the most common concerns with shredded cheese is the anti-caking agent used to prevent the shreds from clumping together. While some brands may use wheat-based starches, Great Value specifies the use of potato starch and powdered cellulose.

• Potato Starch: Derived from potatoes, potato starch is a safe, gluten-free additive. It effectively prevents sticking without introducing gluten.
• Powdered Cellulose: This is a plant-based fiber and is also gluten-free. It helps maintain the cheese's texture and prevents moisture build-up.

The Risk of Cross-Contamination

Even with safe ingredients, cross-contamination is a significant concern for those with celiac disease. This can occur if a product is manufactured on the same equipment or in the same facility as gluten-containing foods. While the Great Value product is labeled gluten-free, which implies it meets the FDA's standard of containing less than 20 parts per million of gluten, individual sensitivity can vary. For those who are highly sensitive, contacting the manufacturer directly for information on their manufacturing processes is a recommended step.

Comparison of Shredded Cheeses

Feature	Great Value Shredded Mild Cheddar	Other Shredded Cheese Brands	Non-Shredded Block Cheese
Anti-Caking Agent	Potato Starch, Powdered Cellulose	Varies, may contain wheat-based starch	None
Gluten-Free Labeling	Explicitly labeled as gluten-free	Varies by brand and product line	Inherently gluten-free, but label is less common
Cross-Contamination Risk	Low, based on labeling. Facility processes are key.	Can be higher, especially if no gluten-free claim is made	Minimal to none, as long as it's a pure, natural block
Processing	Processed with anti-caking agents	Varies, may have different additives	Minimal processing, no anti-caking agents needed
Price	Generally affordable	Varies, can be more expensive	Can be more cost-effective per ounce over time

Gluten-Free Best Practices for Cheese

To ensure your cheese consumption is safe on a gluten-free diet, follow these best practices:

1. Always Read the Label: Even for products that are generally safe, variations can occur. Check the ingredient list and look for a gluten-free certification mark.
2. Opt for Block Cheese: For the highest certainty, buy blocks of natural cheese and shred them yourself at home. This completely eliminates the risk of gluten-containing anti-caking agents.
3. Be Aware of Flavored Cheeses: Flavored or processed cheese products are more likely to contain hidden gluten. Always scrutinize the ingredient list.
4. Inquire at Deli Counters: If purchasing cheese from a deli, ensure the slicer has been thoroughly cleaned to avoid cross-contamination from other products that may contain gluten.

Conclusion

Based on the product labeling and ingredients listed on Walmart's website, Great Value shredded mild cheddar cheese is gluten-free. The anti-caking agents used, potato starch and powdered cellulose, are free of gluten. However, individuals with celiac disease or high sensitivity should always be aware of potential cross-contamination risks during manufacturing and handling. Reading labels and understanding the ingredients is the most reliable way to ensure the safety of any food product.

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Further Reading

• Beyond Celiac: Is Cheese Gluten-Free?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is natural, unprocessed cheese always gluten-free?

Yes, natural cheese, made only from milk, cultures, and enzymes, is inherently gluten-free. The risk of gluten arises with processed or flavored cheese products.

Why would shredded cheese contain gluten?

Some manufacturers use wheat-based starches as an anti-caking agent to prevent shredded cheese from sticking together. Always check the ingredient list to confirm the type of starch used.

Is the anti-caking agent in Great Value cheese gluten-free?

Yes, the anti-caking agents in Great Value shredded mild cheddar cheese are potato starch and powdered cellulose, both of which are gluten-free.

What is the risk of cross-contamination for shredded cheese?

Cross-contamination can occur during manufacturing if the cheese is processed in a facility that also handles gluten-containing products. Relying on a 'gluten-free' label, which meets FDA standards, is typically sufficient for most, but those with celiac disease should remain cautious.

Are all Great Value cheeses gluten-free?

While many Great Value cheese products are gluten-free, it is crucial to check the label of each specific product. Processed or flavored varieties may contain different ingredients.

How can I be certain my cheese is gluten-free?

The most certain method is to purchase a solid block of natural cheese, which contains no anti-caking agents, and shred it yourself at home.

What does 'naturally gluten-free food' mean for Great Value cheese?

This label indicates that the product's primary ingredients are naturally free of gluten and that no gluten-containing ingredients were added during processing. It is a strong assurance of its gluten-free status.