What Are the Bad Ingredients in Shredded Cheese? Additives Explained
Discover the common additives in shredded cheese like cellulose and preservatives, and learn how to avoid them for healthier cheese choices.
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Shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents to prevent the pieces from clumping together. Two common additives are cellulose, made from wood pulp or cotton, and powdered cellulose, which is essentially the same but more processed. While generally recognized as safe, some people prefer to avoid these ingredients. Additionally, shredded cheeses may contain preservatives like natamycin to inhibit mold growth. For those concerned about these additives, purchasing block cheese and shredding it at home is a simple alternative.
FAQs & Answers
- Why does shredded cheese contain anti-caking agents? Anti-caking agents like cellulose are added to shredded cheese to prevent the pieces from clumping together and maintain a free-flowing texture.
- Is cellulose in shredded cheese safe to eat? Yes, cellulose is generally recognized as safe by food authorities, but some people choose to avoid it due to its source from wood pulp or cotton.
- How can I avoid additives in shredded cheese? To avoid additives such as cellulose and preservatives, buy block cheese and shred it yourself at home.
- What preservatives are commonly found in shredded cheese? Preservatives like natamycin are often used in shredded cheese to inhibit mold growth and extend shelf life.