Kamil Perry
Stouffer's Traditional Macaroni and Cheese is a popular frozen meal, made with tender elbow macaroni, 100% real cheese, and a hint of sea salt. While it is marketed as a convenient and tasty dish, concerns have been raised about the presence of potentially harmful chemicals in boxed and frozen macaroni and cheese products. Phthalates, chemicals banned from children's products, have been detected in some macaroni and cheese mixes, particularly those with powdered cheese. These chemicals are linked to health issues, including hormonal disruption and birth defects. While the presence of phthalates in Stouffer's macaroni and cheese is unclear, the general advice for reducing exposure includes consuming more whole fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables and minimizing processed foods.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Does Stouffer's frozen macaroni and cheese contain phthalates? | Phthalates are not listed as an ingredient on Stouffer's traditional macaroni and cheese packaging. However, a 2017 study published on an advocacy site claimed to have detected phthalates in boxed mac and cheese products, but the specific products were not disclosed. |
| Ingredients | Cooked macaroni (water, semolina wheat flour, wheat gluten), skim milk, water, cheddar cheese (cultured milk, salt, enzymes, annatto color), cheddar club cheese (cheddar cheese, cultured milk, salt, enzymes], water, salt, annatto color), bleached wheat flour, soybean oil, butter (cream, salt), potassium chloride, butter flavor (maltodextrin, natural flavor, annatto & turmeric color), xanthan gum, yeast extract, lactic acid, calcium lactate |
| Nutritional Information | 0g trans fat per serving |
| Cooking Instructions | If frozen (0°F): Cook 25-30 minutes; if thawed (40°F or less): Cook 15-20 minutes. Microwave Oven: 1100 Watt. Cook loosely covered in a microwave-safe container; stir. If thawed (40°F or less): Cook 8 oz High Power 1-1 ½ minutes. |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Stouffer's Mac and Cheese ingredients
Stouffer's Mac and Cheese is a frozen meal made with 100% real cheese and freshly made pasta. It is available in a single-serving size and a family-size option.
The ingredients in Stouffer's Mac and Cheese include:
- Cooked macaroni (water, semolina wheat flour, wheat gluten)
- Skim milk
- Water
- Cheddar cheese (cultured milk, salt, enzymes, annatto colour)
- Cheddar club cheese (cheddar cheese [cultured milk, salt, enzymes], water, salt, annatto colour)
- Bleached wheat flour
- Soybean oil
- Butter (cream, salt)
- Potassium chloride
- Butter flavour (maltodextrin, natural flavour, annatto & turmeric colour)
- Xanthan gum
- Yeast extract
- Lactic acid
- Calcium lactate
Stouffer's Traditional Macaroni and Cheese is described as being made with "tender, freshly made elbow macaroni made from durum semolina wheat blended with 100% real cheese and a hint of sea salt."
The product contains no preservatives and has 0g of trans fat per serving.
SpongeBob Kraft Macaroni: A Cheesy Collaboration
You may want to see also
Phthalates in food packaging
Ortho-phthalates, often referred to as "phthalates," are a class of chemicals commonly found in many types of food and food packaging. They are used to make plastic more flexible and durable, a function often referred to as a "plasticizer." Phthalates are commonly found in a specific type of plastic named polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or vinyl.
Phthalates have historically been used in food packaging and other minor food contact uses such as components of adhesives, lubricants, and sealants. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently allows nine phthalates in food contact applications, eight for use as plasticizers and one for use as a monomer, in the production of food contact polymers. However, phthalates are not authorized to be directly added to food.
The safety assessments that allowed the use of phthalates in food contact applications were based on dietary exposure and toxicological information and data from 1961 to 1985. However, the food supply and packaging markets have evolved since then, and the use of phthalates in food contact materials has changed. The FDA has been analyzing samples of food packaging and food contact articles available on the U.S. market for the presence of phthalates, and data from these studies suggest that manufacturers have been replacing phthalates with alternative compounds.
Scientific evidence has linked phthalates to reproductive, developmental, and endocrine-related health problems, making exposure particularly concerning for pregnant women and young children. While the full extent of the threat remains unclear, every chemical in the class that has been studied for health effects has been found to pose a health risk. The FDA is responsible for ensuring that food contact substances are safe and meet all applicable requirements, and they may reassess the safe use of these substances and take action based on new scientific information.
To help consumers stay safe, organizations like Consumer Reports have investigated the presence of phthalates in food and food packaging over the past 25 years. Their tests of nearly 100 foods found that despite growing evidence of potential health threats, phthalates remain widespread in our food, often at high levels. They were found in almost every food tested, including prepared meals, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, baby food, fast food, meat, and seafood, regardless of the packaging type.
Mac and Cheese: Sugar or No Sugar?
You may want to see also
Harmful effects of phthalates
Phthalates are a class of chemicals with endocrine-disrupting properties. They are found in many everyday items, including food, drinks, plastic, vinyl, personal care products, and children's toys. While they are not a single chemical but rather an entire family of them, exposure to phthalates can have harmful effects on human health. Here are some of the harmful effects of phthalates:
Increased Health Risks
Phthalates have been linked to an increased risk of various health issues, including cancer, asthma, allergies, and learning, attention, and behavioral difficulties, especially in children. Prenatal exposure to phthalates has been associated with learning, attention, and behavioral disorders in children, according to a 2021 study. In addition, phthalates can also cause neurological problems and impact the immune system, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Endocrine Disruption
Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, which means they interfere with the normal functioning of the hormone system. They can increase the production of some hormones, decrease the production of others, and interfere with hormone signaling. This disruption can lead to health problems such as changes in fertility, early puberty, low birth weight, obesity, diabetes, and reproductive issues.
Developmental Impacts
Phthalates can adversely affect reproduction and development. Studies have shown evidence of harmful effects on the development of children and adolescents, including impacts on pregnancy success and child growth. Unborn babies, infants, and children are among the most vulnerable to the effects of phthalates, as their bodies are still developing.
Environmental Concerns
The widespread use of plastic has resulted in the consumption of more than 3 million tons of phthalates globally each year. This has led to the leaching of phthalates into the environment, contaminating food, water, and other products that come into direct contact with humans. The high usage of plastics in certain countries, such as China and the USA, has resulted in increased exposure to phthalates, causing potential health and environmental risks.
While the full extent of the harmful effects of phthalates is still being studied, it is clear that their presence in everyday items can have detrimental consequences for human health and the environment. It is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with phthalate exposure and to take steps to reduce daily exposure whenever possible.
Mac and Cheese: Salty or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Alternatives to Stouffer's
Stouffer's, owned by Nestle, is a popular brand for frozen meals, including macaroni and cheese, and lasagna. However, some consumers are looking for alternatives to the brand for various reasons.
- Kraft Macaroni & Cheese: Kraft offers a range of food products, including macaroni and cheese, which is a direct alternative to Stouffer's macaroni and cheese.
- Myles Comfort Foods: This company specializes in frozen meals, offering a variety of frozen comfort foods made with clean ingredients.
- Excellent: Based in France, Excellent provides plant-based alternatives to animal proteins in the food industry. Their products are designed to mimic the taste and texture of meat, targeting health-conscious and environmentally-sustainable consumers.
- Frizata: Frizata is an e-commerce platform offering direct-to-consumer flexitarian frozen food.
- Picard Surgeles: This company specializes in frozen products, including meals.
- Bob Evans Refrigerated Macaroni and Cheese: This product is recommended by a consumer as a good alternative to Stouffer's frozen macaroni and cheese.
- Store Brand Meat Lasagna: For those who enjoy Stouffer's lasagna, a suggested alternative is to buy a store brand meat lasagna and add shredded cheese on top.
- Rana Lasagna: This refrigerated lasagna is available at Costco and some supermarkets and is recommended as a tasty alternative to Stouffer's lasagna.
- PC Brand: This brand offers a variety of frozen meals, including options with cheese and veggies.
- Bremer: This brand offers lasagna, which is available at Aldi, and is recommended as a tasty alternative.
These alternatives to Stouffer's provide options for consumers looking for different types of products, including frozen meals, plant-based alternatives, and specific recommendations for macaroni and cheese or lasagna dishes.
Mac and Cheese: How Long Does it Last?
You may want to see also
Stouffer's cooking instructions
Stouffer's Traditional Macaroni & Cheese is a convenient and tasty option for those looking for a quick meal. It is made with freshly made elbow macaroni from durum semolina wheat, blended with 100% real cheese and a hint of sea salt. The product is free from preservatives and trans fat, making it a popular choice for restaurants and food services.
When it comes to cooking instructions, Stouffer's provides clear guidelines to ensure food safety and quality. Here are the recommended cooking instructions for Stouffer's Traditional Macaroni & Cheese:
Oven Cooking Instructions:
If you're cooking the frozen macaroni (at 0°F), preheat your oven and cook the dish for 25-30 minutes. For a thawed package (40°F or less), the cooking time is reduced to 15-20 minutes.
Microwave Instructions:
For those in a hurry, you can also cook Stouffer's Macaroni & Cheese in the microwave. If using a microwave with 1100 Watts, follow these instructions:
- Place the product in a microwave-safe container and loosely cover it.
- If the product is frozen, cook for 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes on High Power.
- If the product is thawed, cook for 1 minute to 1 minute and 30 seconds on High Power.
Regardless of the cooking method, it is essential to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C for food safety.
Some people prefer to use a combination of oven and microwave cooking for the best results. One user recommends cooking Stouffer's Macaroni & Cheese in the oven but covering the tray with aluminum foil to prevent burning and achieve an even cook.
Customizing Cooking Instructions:
It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on your oven or microwave's power and performance. Some users have reported that their newer microwaves have resulted in burnt corners, so adjusting the power level or cooking time may be necessary.
Additionally, Stouffer's products are known for their generous portions, so consider your appetite and adjust the cooking instructions accordingly if you plan to save some for later.
Remember always to refer to the package instructions and use the provided guidelines as a starting point. With Stouffer's, you can enjoy a delicious and convenient meal without compromising taste or quality.
Popeyes' Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Classic
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Stouffer's frozen macaroni and cheese does not appear to contain phthalates. However, phthalates have been detected in boxed mac and cheese mixes made with powdered cheese.
Phthalates are potentially harmful chemicals that have been linked to negative health effects, particularly in pregnant women, infants, and children. They can disrupt male hormones like testosterone and have been associated with genital birth defects in infant boys and learning and behavior problems in older children.
Phthalates are not an ingredient in the powdered cheese, but they can be present in the packaging and manufacturing equipment. Trace amounts of phthalates may also be found in non-powdered cheese due to contact with plastic.
To reduce your exposure to phthalates, it is recommended to eat more whole fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, minimize processed foods, and choose low-fat dairy products and cheeses. Phthalates are also found in fragrances, so opting for unscented personal care products can help reduce exposure.
