Tag: Cheese processing

The notion that low-fat products are inherently more processed often leads consumers to choose full-fat options, assuming they are more 'natural'. This perception, however, doesn't tell the full story about how low-fat cheese is more processed, particularly regarding the additives and modifications needed to mimic the flavor and texture of its full-fat equivalent.

Over 65% of the global population has some degree of lactose intolerance, which affects their ability to digest the sugar found in milk products. For those who love dairy, this often raises the question: can lactose intolerant people eat Edam cheese without the uncomfortable side effects?

According to the manufacturer, the Original Mini Babybel is confirmed to be 100% real cheese, made with just four simple ingredients. Despite its uniform shape and waxy coating, which lead many to assume it's processed, it is in fact, a natural Edam-style cheese.

Natural cheeses like pure Monterey Jack are inherently gluten-free, as gluten is a protein found in grains, not dairy. This guide explains whether Jack cheese has gluten, exploring potential risks from additives, processing, and cross-contamination that can affect those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

While many hard cheeses are naturally low in lactose due to the aging process, American cheese, a processed cheese food, presents a more complicated case for sensitive diets due to its manufacturing process and added ingredients. This makes its lactose level less predictable than its natural cheese counterparts.

Most natural cheeses contain less than one gram of carbohydrates per serving. The query, 'Does shredded cheese have carbs?' arises because, unlike solid blocks, pre-shredded varieties can contain minimal carbohydrates due to processing and additives.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most commercially sold cheeses in the United States, including shredded cheeses, are made from pasteurized milk to ensure safety. Pasteurization is a crucial heat treatment that kills harmful bacteria, such as Listeria, that can be present in raw milk. However, the shredding process introduces unique considerations for food safety that consumers should be aware of.

In the United States, while dairy milk is graded 'A' based on strict sanitary conditions, the grading process for cheese is more comprehensive and focuses on the final product's sensory and physical characteristics. This guide will answer, "What is grade a cheese?" by detailing the official criteria used to evaluate it.

According to the British Heart Foundation, most natural cheeses like Cheddar or Brie are considered 'processed food' rather than 'ultra-processed'. This distinction clarifies the common query: does cheese count as a highly processed food? The answer depends entirely on the type of cheese and how it is manufactured.

Many traditional block cheeses are not ultra-processed. Knowing what cheese is not highly processed helps choose healthier options, which contain fewer additives and less sodium.