Is It Unhealthy to Eat Shredded Cheese? A Look at the Health Implications

October 27, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2024 study, many consumers question the safety of convenience foods, and shredded cheese is a prime example due to the anti-caking agents used to prevent clumping. So, is it unhealthy to eat shredded cheese, or are these concerns largely overblown, with the real health considerations lying elsewhere?

Quick Summary

Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents to prevent clumping, which are generally recognized as safe and have a negligible impact on overall nutrition. The health considerations for shredded cheese, like any cheese, primarily involve its high content of saturated fat, sodium, and calories.

Key Points

Additives Are Safe: Anti-caking agents like cellulose and starch used in shredded cheese are approved by the FDA and are safe for consumption.
Nutritional Impact is Negligible: The small amount of additives has a minimal effect on the overall nutritional value of the cheese.
Saturated Fat and Sodium are the Real Concerns: The primary health factors to monitor in any cheese, including shredded, are its content of saturated fat, sodium, and calories.
Melting Quality is Compromised: Anti-caking agents can prevent the cheese from melting smoothly, resulting in a less desirable texture for cooked dishes.
Moderation is Key: Eating shredded cheese in modest portions as part of a balanced diet is generally not unhealthy and can provide valuable nutrients like calcium and protein.
Consider Alternatives: For those watching their fat and sodium intake or following a vegan diet, healthier options like low-fat cheese or plant-based alternatives are available.

Many people enjoy the convenience of pre-packaged shredded cheese for quick meals like tacos, pizzas, and salads. However, a wave of skepticism has arisen regarding the safety of the additives used to prevent the cheese shreds from clumping together. This has led many to question if a shortcut to meal prep is worth a potential compromise in health. A closer look at the facts reveals that while there are minor differences between pre-shredded and block cheese, the overall health profile is less about the additives and more about the type and quantity of cheese consumed.

The Truth About Anti-Caking Agents

Anti-caking agents are added to pre-shredded cheese to keep the individual shreds from sticking together inside the bag, which would otherwise be a problem due to the cheese's moisture content. Common agents include powdered cellulose, potato starch, cornstarch, and natamycin (a mold inhibitor). The use of these additives is where much of the health anxiety originates.

Some viral social media content has misleadingly referred to cellulose as 'wood pulp'. While cellulose is industrially derived from wood, it is a naturally occurring dietary fiber found in all plants, and it passes through the human digestive system largely unabsorbed. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other health bodies recognize these additives as safe for consumption in the small quantities used.

Despite their safety, these agents do affect the culinary performance of the cheese. The fine powdery coating can inhibit a smooth, even melt, often leading to a slightly grainy or separated texture in sauces or on pizzas.

Weighing the Nutritional Differences

From a purely nutritional standpoint, the differences between pre-shredded and freshly grated cheese are minimal. The anti-caking agents are added in such small amounts that they do not significantly alter the overall macronutrient profile of the product. However, other nutritional factors are more important when considering the health impact of cheese consumption.

Comparing Nutritional Pros and Cons

Pros of Cheese:

High in Nutrients: Most cheese varieties are an excellent source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and Vitamin B12.
Supports Bone Health: The high calcium content is crucial for maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis.
May Support Gut Health: Aged and fermented varieties, such as cheddar and gouda, contain probiotics (beneficial bacteria) that contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.
Associated with Heart Health: Recent large studies have linked moderate cheese consumption with a lower risk of heart disease and stroke, possibly due to the unique way nutrients interact within the 'cheese matrix'.

Cons of Cheese:

High in Saturated Fat: Many cheeses are dense in saturated fat, which has historically been linked to increased heart disease risk, though modern research shows a more nuanced relationship.
High in Sodium: Salt is an essential component in cheese production for flavor and preservation. High sodium intake can contribute to elevated blood pressure.
Calorie Dense: Due to its fat content, cheese is high in calories, and overconsumption can contribute to weight gain.

The Real takeaway

The most significant health implications come from the overall diet and the quantity consumed, not the specific preparation method. A modest amount of shredded cheese sprinkled on a salad is far different from piling it onto a cheeseburger with processed meat and a refined bun, which can negate any potential benefits.

How to Make a Healthier Choice with Shredded Cheese

Making mindful choices allows you to enjoy cheese, shredded or otherwise, as part of a healthy diet. Here are a few tips:

Practice Portion Control: Stick to recommended serving sizes, typically around 1 ounce (30g) for hard cheeses.
Choose Lower-Fat Varieties: Opt for cheeses made with part-skim milk, such as reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella, to lower your saturated fat intake.
Look for Low-Sodium Options: Brands vary widely in sodium content, so check nutrition labels. Swiss cheese is naturally lower in sodium, and you can rinse some feta to reduce its saltiness.
Pair with Fiber-Rich Foods: Combining cheese with vegetables or whole grains helps create a balanced meal and increases satiety.
Shred Your Own: For better flavor and melting quality, consider shredding your own block of cheese. While less convenient, it ensures you avoid all additives and can be more cost-effective.

Pre-Shredded vs. Block Cheese: A Comparison


Feature	Pre-Shredded Cheese	Block Cheese (self-shredded)
Convenience	High; ready to use immediately.	Low; requires time and effort to shred.
Additives	Contains anti-caking agents (e.g., starch, cellulose) and sometimes preservatives.	Free of additives and coatings.
Cost	Typically higher per ounce due to processing and packaging.	More cost-effective per ounce.
Melting Quality	Additives can inhibit smooth melting, sometimes leading to a gritty texture.	Melts more smoothly and evenly.
Freshness	Exposed to more air, it can dry out and mold faster once opened.	Stays fresh longer in a block form.

What Are Some Healthy Alternatives to Dairy-Based Shredded Cheese?

For those who are vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply want to explore other options, numerous healthy alternatives exist. Nutritional yeast flakes provide a cheesy, nutty, umami flavor, while vegan cheeses made from cashews, almonds, or tofu offer a variety of textures and applications. Brands like Miyoko's and Violife provide excellent plant-based options that melt well.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Shredded Cheese

The notion that it is unhealthy to eat shredded cheese is largely a myth driven by misunderstandings about food additives and a focus on processed forms. While additives like cellulose are present, they are safe and do not pose a significant health risk in the small quantities consumed. The primary considerations for health—saturated fat, sodium, and calorie content—apply to all cheese, whether shredded or in a block. By practicing moderation, choosing lower-fat varieties, and balancing with nutrient-dense foods, you can enjoy shredded cheese as part of a healthy diet without worry. For the best flavor, texture, and additive-free experience, shredding your own cheese is a superior option. Ultimately, the occasional convenience of pre-shredded cheese should not be a major health concern.

Harvard Health Publishing: Is cheese bad for your heart?

Frequently Asked Questions

Shredded cheese is coated with food-safe anti-caking agents, such as potato starch, cornstarch, and powdered cellulose, to prevent it from clumping together. These additives are not harmful chemicals and are deemed safe for consumption by regulatory bodies like the FDA.

Some shredded cheese contains powdered cellulose to prevent clumping. While industrially derived from wood pulp, cellulose is a naturally occurring dietary fiber found in plants and is not harmful. It passes through the digestive tract unabsorbed.

Yes, pre-shredded cheese often melts less smoothly than block cheese. The anti-caking agents coat the shreds and can inhibit them from melting together uniformly, sometimes leaving a slightly grainy or gritty texture.

The core nutritional content of pre-shredded cheese is very similar to block cheese, as the anti-caking agents have a negligible nutritional impact. Any health difference is minor and depends more on the type and quantity of cheese consumed, rather than its form.

To reduce saturated fat, opt for lower-fat varieties of cheese, such as reduced-fat cheddar or part-skim mozzarella. You can also use stronger-flavored cheeses like mature cheddar or parmesan sparingly to get more flavor with less volume.

For dairy-free or lower-fat alternatives, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or plant-based shredded products made from ingredients like cashews, almonds, or starches. Cottage cheese is another low-fat, high-protein alternative.

Yes, like block cheese, shredded cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and other essential nutrients like phosphorus, zinc, and vitamin B12. The health benefits largely depend on moderation and the overall context of your diet.