What Ingredients Are in Shredded Cheese? Understanding Additives and Fillers
Discover what shredded cheese contains beyond cheese, including common anti-caking agents and preservatives to keep it fresh.
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Shredded cheese typically contains not just cheese but also anti-caking agents like potato starch, powdered cellulose, or cornstarch to keep the shreds from clumping together in the package. Some blends might also include natamycin, a natural mold inhibitor, to keep the cheese fresh. Always check the label for specific ingredients if you have dietary restrictions or concerns.
FAQs & Answers
- Why does shredded cheese contain starch? Starch such as potato starch or cornstarch is added to shredded cheese as an anti-caking agent to prevent the cheese shreds from sticking together in the package.
- What is natamycin in shredded cheese? Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor sometimes added to shredded cheese to help keep it fresh and prevent mold growth.
- Are the additives in shredded cheese safe to consume? Yes, anti-caking agents like potato starch, powdered cellulose, cornstarch, and preservatives like natamycin are generally recognized as safe when used in food products, but always check labeling if you have dietary restrictions.
- How can I find shredded cheese without additives? Look for shredded cheese labeled as '100% cheese' without added anti-caking agents or preservatives, or consider shredding block cheese yourself for an additive-free option.