Patrick Oconnell
Whether or not cheddar cheese can be considered a whole food is a matter of debate. Whole foods are generally considered to be those that are minimally processed and have few added ingredients. While cheese is made from milk or cream, which are whole foods, the process of making cheese involves some level of processing and the addition of ingredients such as salt, enzymes, and annatto for color. On the other hand, some sources suggest that cheese can be considered a whole food if it is made from grass-fed or pasture-raised milk and is organic, as these factors indicate a more natural and less processed product. Ultimately, the definition of a whole food can vary, and it is up to individuals to decide what fits within their own dietary preferences and restrictions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Processing | Cheddar cheese is processed |
| Natural | No, it cannot be found in nature |
| Ingredients | Pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, annatto (color) |
| Nutritional value | High in calories, saturated fat, sodium, calcium, and protein |
| Toxins | Antibiotics, milk-boosting hormones (rBGH) |
| Organic | Ideally yes |
| Grass-fed | Ideally yes |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar cheese as a whole food
Whether or not cheddar cheese can be considered a whole food is a matter of perspective. Some sources suggest that whole foods are those that are minimally processed and have few added ingredients. From this perspective, cheese is not a whole food because it is a processed form of milk. Cheese is made by concentrating and separating milk proteins, and it often contains additives like salt, enzymes, and annatto (a natural colour additive).
However, it's worth noting that some forms of processing may be considered acceptable for a food to still be considered "whole". For example, cracking a nut or skimming milk fat would likely be considered acceptable forms of processing. Additionally, some sources suggest that organic, grass-fed cheese is preferable from a health perspective, as it is more nutritious and contains fewer toxins.
Cheddar cheese, when made with organic, grass-fed milk and few additives, may be considered closer to a whole food than highly processed cheese products. For example, shredded cheese often contains an anti-caking agent called cellulose that is sometimes made from wood pulp.
Ultimately, the definition of a "whole food" is subjective and depends on individual preferences and interpretations. However, it is important to note that cheese, regardless of its processing, can be a good source of calcium and protein, but it is also high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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Cheddar cheese ingredients
Cheddar cheese is made using a variety of ingredients and methods, depending on the producer. A basic recipe for cheddar cheese includes the following ingredients:
- 3 gallons of milk (not ultra-pasteurized)
- 1 packet C101 mesophilic culture
- 3 ml (a bit over 1/2 tsp) single-strength liquid rennet
- Salt
- 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) calcium chloride (for pasteurized milk)
Some recipes may also call for additional ingredients such as mold powders, additives, enzymes, and annatto (a natural colour additive).
When purchasing cheddar cheese, it is recommended to look for certain indicators that suggest higher quality. For example, choosing organic, grass-fed, or pasture-raised cheese is generally considered better. Block cheese is also preferable to pre-grated cheese, as the latter often contains an anti-caking agent called cellulose, which can be made from wood pulp.
In terms of nutrition, cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, but it is also high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium. It is important to note that the specific ingredients and nutritional content of cheddar cheese may vary depending on the brand, production methods, and regional regulations.
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Organic cheddar cheese
While there is no universally agreed-upon definition of "whole food," the term generally refers to foods that are minimally processed and free of artificial additives. Cheddar cheese, including organic varieties, can be considered a whole food if it meets these criteria.
For example, Organic Valley offers a range of organic cheddar cheeses made from raw, non-homogenized, and non-pasteurized milk. Their Grassmilk® Raw Sharp Cheddar is aged for at least six months and has a semi-hard texture with flavour notes of grass, flowers, and rich "umami."
Similarly, Cedar Grove Cheese produces organic, non-pasteurized cheddar, certified since 1996. Their milk is sourced from farmers who do not use artificial hormones, antibiotics, or harmful pesticides, adhering to the standards of organic cheese production.
When choosing organic cheddar cheese, it is advisable to opt for block cheese over pre-grated varieties, as shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents like cellulose, sometimes derived from wood pulp. Additionally, selecting white cheddar over orange varieties is preferable, as the orange colour is typically an unnecessary additive, although generally harmless.
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Grass-fed cheddar cheese
The process of making grass-fed cheddar cheese begins with unpasteurized milk from grass-fed cows. This milk is then cultured and mixed with salt and vegetarian enzymes to form the cheese curds. The curds are then pressed and aged to develop the flavour and texture of the final product.
In terms of nutrition, grass-fed cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. However, like all cheeses, it is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium. When consumed in moderation, grass-fed cheddar cheese can be a delicious and nutritious addition to a balanced diet.
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Cheddar cheese nutrition
Cheddar cheese is a tasty, versatile, and popular cheese, but its nutrition isn't thought to be ideal. It is calorie-dense and contains high levels of saturated fat and sodium. It is also often produced using antibiotics and milk-boosting hormone injections (rBGH), which are not permitted in Europe due to public health and animal welfare concerns.
However, cheddar cheese does have some notable nutritional benefits. It is a great source of protein, with 7 grams per ounce, and it is high in calcium, which is critical to preventing osteoporosis. Cheddar is also quite low in lactose, so it can be consumed by people who are lactose intolerant without causing unpleasant symptoms.
When buying cheddar cheese, it is best to choose organic, grass-fed, or pasture-raised cheese to ensure it is more nutritious. Block-form cheese is also preferable to pre-grated as it does not contain anti-caking agents.
Overall, while cheddar cheese may have some nutritional benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheddar cheese is not considered a whole food as it is a processed product made from milk or cream. Cheese is a method of concentrating and separating milk proteins.
When buying cheese, it is best to look for organic, grass-fed, or pasture-raised options. Block-form cheese is also preferable to pre-grated cheese, as the latter often contains an anti-caking agent called cellulose, sometimes made from wood pulp.
Yes, Whole Foods Market offers a product called "365 Whole Foods Market Mild Cheddar Cheese Shreds." This product is certified to be free of ingredients that are genetically engineered or derived from genetically engineered crops.
