Core Ingredients: Beyond the Cheese
While Cheez-It crackers famously advertise being made with “100% real cheese,” a significant portion of their composition consists of other processed ingredients and chemicals. The standard Cheez-It recipe starts with enriched flour, a processed grain product where B vitamins (niacin, riboflavin, thiamin mononitrate) and iron are added back after milling. These nutritional supplements are technically chemicals but are generally benign additions to the diet.
The crackers' crispy texture and mouthfeel are largely thanks to vegetable oils, specifically a blend of high oleic soybean, soybean, palm, and/or canola oil. A key chemical in this blend is tertiary butylhydroquinone, or TBHQ, a synthetic antioxidant added for freshness. Without TBHQ, the unsaturated fats in the oils would quickly oxidize and spoil the product. Real cheese is included, made with skim milk, whey protein, salt, cheese cultures, and enzymes, with annatto extract sometimes added for a vibrant color. Soy lecithin, an emulsifier, is also used in small amounts to help bind the ingredients together.
Additives and Chemicals in Different Cheez-It Flavors
While the Original Cheez-It has a relatively straightforward ingredient list compared to other processed snacks, the list grows longer and more complex with different flavors. For instance, the Cheddar Jack or Cheese Pizza varieties introduce several additional chemical components.
Flavor Enhancers
For a more intense savory taste, some Cheez-It flavors include monosodium glutamate (MSG), a well-known flavor enhancer. This is often paired with other umami-boosting chemicals like disodium guanylate and disodium inosinate. These ingredients are used to amplify the cheesy and savory notes beyond what the natural ingredients alone can provide. Natural and artificial flavors are also added to create the distinct profile for each variety.
Artificial Colors
Certain flavored Cheez-Its contain artificial food dyes to achieve their desired appearance. The Cheddar Jack flavor, for example, lists Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, along with natural colors like paprika and annatto extracts. Similarly, the Puff'd Scorchin' Hot Cheddar variety includes Red 40 Lake. These artificial colors are chemical compounds manufactured to provide consistent and bright pigmentation in food products.
Potential Health Concerns Associated with Chemicals
As highlighted by the EWG, the presence of certain chemicals in Cheez-Its raises some health-related questions. The most frequently discussed additive is TBHQ.
The TBHQ Controversy
TBHQ, while approved by the FDA, has been the subject of some concern, particularly regarding its effect on the immune system. Studies from the EWG suggest that TBHQ may negatively impact immune cells and has been linked to a rise in food allergies in animal studies. It is derived from a petroleum byproduct, and critics argue that more up-to-date human research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects.
Ultra-Processed Foods
Beyond specific chemicals, Cheez-Its and other snacks in their category are considered ultra-processed foods. These foods are often high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and refined carbohydrates while being low in fiber and essential micronutrients. Diets high in ultra-processed foods have been linked to a higher risk of health issues, including heart disease and obesity.
Ingredient Comparison: Original vs. Flavored Cheez-Its
| Ingredient Category | Original Cheez-It | Cheddar Jack Cheez-It |
|---|---|---|
| Core Ingredients | Enriched Flour, Vegetable Oil, Skim Milk Cheese | Enriched Flour, Vegetable Oil, Skim Milk Cheese, Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese |
| Preservative | TBHQ | TBHQ |
| Flavor Enhancers | N/A (aside from natural cheese) | MSG, Disodium Inosinate, Disodium Guanylate |
| Coloring Agents | Annatto Extract Color, Paprika Extract Color | Annatto Extract Color, Paprika Extract Color, Yellow 5, Yellow 6 |
| Seasoning | Salt, Yeast, Paprika | Salt, Paprika, Whey, Buttermilk, Spices, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder |
What Does This Mean for the Consumer?
Understanding the chemicals in Cheez-Its allows consumers to make more informed dietary choices. For most people, consuming these crackers in moderation as part of a balanced diet poses little to no risk. However, individuals with sensitivities to specific additives, or those concerned about the long-term effects of ultra-processed foods, may choose to limit their intake. The differences in ingredient lists between flavors also highlight that not all Cheez-It products are created equal regarding their chemical composition.
It is important for consumers to read the specific ingredient list on each package, as recipes can vary and be updated over time. For more information, the official Cheez-It FAQ provides additional details on the company's products.
Conclusion Cheez-Its contain a blend of natural and chemically derived ingredients that contribute to their signature taste, texture, and shelf life. While the base includes enriched flour, real cheese, and vegetable oils, various flavors incorporate additional chemical additives such as TBHQ, MSG, and artificial colorings. While regulatory bodies deem these chemicals safe in small quantities, the presence of these additives, particularly TBHQ, has prompted concerns from groups like the EWG. Ultimately, the decision to consume Cheez-Its and other ultra-processed snacks is a personal one, best made with a clear understanding of what goes into them.
