Tag: Tillamook cheese

According to the Tillamook Creamery Association, while most of their products like yogurt, ice cream, and butter are made with fully pasteurized ingredients, their aged cheddars and Swiss cheese are an exception. These specific cheeses use a 'heat-shocked' milk process to preserve beneficial enzymes, which are crucial for developing their signature flavor. So, are all Tillamook products pasteurized? The answer is no, not entirely.

While some Tillamook cheeses are made with fully pasteurized milk, most of their aged cheddar, including many of the white cheddar varieties, are not. Instead, they undergo a 'heat-shocked' process, followed by a federally mandated minimum aging period for safety.

According to Tillamook's own foodservice ingredient lists, specific shredded cheese products, such as their Medium Cheddar Shredded Cheese, explicitly contain the natural mold inhibitor natamycin. This practice is common in the industry to extend the shelf life of pre-shredded cheese and prevent caking.

According to Tillamook's official website, Tillamook's shredded cheeses contain three main component types: the cheese itself, an anti-caking agent, and a natural mold inhibitor. This article breaks down what are the ingredients in Tillamook shredded cheese and what purpose each serves.

Since 2016, Tillamook has exclusively used fermentation-produced (microbial) rennet for nearly all its cheese products, making the vast majority vegetarian. This change is crucial for consumers asking, **does tillamook cheese use animal enzymes**, as it means most Tillamook products align with a vegetarian-friendly diet. However, a few select vintage cheddars represent a notable exception.

According to Tillamook's own product labels, the company uses potato starch as its anti-caking agent, a common additive that serves the same purpose as powdered cellulose used by other brands. This means that while Tillamook shredded cheese does contain an additive to prevent clumping, the type of agent used may differ from what you find in other shredded cheese products.

While Tillamook's Triple Cheddar Blend contains naturally gluten-free base ingredients, the addition of potato starch as an anti-caking agent and the potential for cross-contamination means it is not a safe choice for those with celiac disease. Understanding the details is crucial for making a safe purchasing decision.

According to the EWG's food scores, Tillamook's cheddar cheese is classified as having 'no processing concerns' and contains natural ingredients, which is a positive attribute for quality cheese. This brings to light the question: **is Tillamook a healthy cheese brand**, and how does its nutritional profile stack up?

For over a century, the Tillamook County Creamery Association has used a simple, traditional cheese-making process involving just a few key ingredients. This tradition leads many to ask, "Does Tillamook cheese have additives?" The answer depends on the product, as while their block cheeses are exceptionally clean, some varieties include functional additives.