Most consumers are surprised to learn that all cheese, by definition, undergoes a form of processing to transform milk into cheese. The key distinction isn't between 'processed' and 'unprocessed' but rather between 'natural' cheese and 'processed cheese product'—a highly modified dairy item created for meltability and a longer shelf life. Natural cheese, on the other hand, is made with a few simple ingredients and ages naturally. By examining brands known for their commitment to traditional cheesemaking, you can identify products that align with your preference for minimal processing.
What Makes a Cheese 'Processed' vs. 'Natural'?
The defining difference lies in the manufacturing process and the ingredients used. Natural cheese is made by curdling milk using a starter culture and rennet, pressing the curds, and then aging the result. Processed cheese products take this a step further by melting down natural cheeses and blending them with additional ingredients such as emulsifying salts, vegetable oils, artificial flavors, and food coloring. These additives create a uniform texture and prevent separation when heated, which is why processed slices melt so perfectly on a burger. For a truly natural cheese, you should look for a short, simple ingredient list, with milk, cultures, salt, and enzymes being the primary components.
Natural and Minimally Processed Cheese Brands
Several brands stand out for their focus on high-quality, minimally processed natural cheeses. They prioritize traditional methods and premium ingredients, often sourcing milk from pasture-raised or organic cows.
Tillamook
Hailing from Oregon, Tillamook is a well-regarded cooperative known for its rich and flavorful cheddar cheese. Their cheeses are aged naturally, and their block cheese varieties contain milk, cultures, salt, and enzymes, making them a minimally processed choice. Tillamook also makes it easy for consumers to differentiate, with their packaging clearly highlighting their natural cheese products.
Kerrygold
This Irish brand is celebrated for its grass-fed, pasture-raised cheeses, including their reserve cheddar. Their product line emphasizes natural aging and simple ingredients, with their cheddars offering a distinctive flavor profile that is a direct result of their minimally processed approach. The rich, creamy taste is a testament to the quality of their milk and cheesemaking techniques.
Organic Valley
Dedicated to organic and ethical farming, Organic Valley offers a range of natural cheeses. Their commitment to using milk from pasture-raised cows without antibiotics or synthetic hormones results in a cleaner, more natural product. While they also produce a processed American cheese, they clearly label their natural, organic block and shredded cheeses, making it simple to choose.
Cabot
Based in Vermont, Cabot is famous for its award-winning cheddars. Their long-standing tradition of cheesemaking results in naturally aged cheeses that are prized for their sharpness and complexity. Their ingredient lists are short, reflecting their minimal-processing philosophy and ensuring a clean, natural taste.
BelGioioso
For those seeking fresh, Italian-style cheeses, BelGioioso is a top contender. Their fresh mozzarella, for example, is crafted using a natural process and contains no artificial additives or preservatives, offering a clean, milky flavor ideal for pizzas and salads. Look for their products sealed in water for maximum freshness.
Comparison Table: Processed vs. Minimally Processed Cheese
| Feature | Minimally Processed (Natural) Cheese | Processed Cheese Product |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Milk, cultures, salt, enzymes | Natural cheese, emulsifying salts, additives, vegetable oil |
| Manufacturing | Curdling, pressing, aging | Blended, heated, and reformed with emulsifiers |
| Melting Properties | Can separate into protein and fat with high heat | Melts uniformly and consistently without separating |
| Flavor Profile | Complex, nuanced flavors that develop with age | Uniform, mild, and often salty taste |
| Shelf Life | Shorter, requires constant refrigeration | Much longer, often doesn't need refrigeration |
| Cost | Generally higher due to quality ingredients and aging | Typically lower due to mass production and cheaper ingredients |
How to Read a Cheese Label
Becoming an expert at identifying natural cheese begins with a simple habit: reading the ingredients list. Highly processed cheeses, especially individually wrapped slices, will have a much longer and more complex list of ingredients than natural cheese.
- Look for simple, recognizable ingredients: A natural cheese label should list milk, cheese culture or cultures, salt, and enzymes. This simple combination is your first clue.
- Watch for emulsifying salts: Ingredients like sodium phosphate and potassium phosphate are dead giveaways for processed cheese. These salts help to blend the cheese and keep it from separating when melted.
- Avoid additives and preservatives: Keep an eye out for sorbic acid, food coloring, and other preservatives that are not necessary for natural cheesemaking.
- Check shredded cheeses: Many pre-shredded cheese products contain anti-caking agents, like potato starch or cellulose, to prevent the shreds from sticking together. For the most natural product, buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself.
The “Processed” vs. “Natural” Debate
It's important to recognize that the term “processed” isn't inherently evil. The goal of processing is often to improve a product's functionality, like ensuring a perfect melt for a grilled cheese sandwich or a uniform texture for a sauce. However, this comes at the cost of the complex flavors and textures found in natural cheese. While a slice of American cheese is perfectly suitable for a burger, it is not a substitute for the taste and characteristics of a fine, naturally aged cheddar. The key is understanding what you are buying and deciding what's most important for your needs. Organic Valley provides an excellent summary of what processed cheese is and isn't on their blog, setting the record straight that it's made from real ingredients.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
Ultimately, selecting which cheese brand is not processed comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. For rich, complex flavors, shorter ingredient lists, and traditional textures, look for brands like Tillamook, Kerrygold, Organic Valley, Cabot, and BelGioioso. For convenience and consistent melting in a specific recipe, a processed cheese product might be the right choice. By knowing the difference and reading labels carefully, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
