Patrick Oconnell
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese is a popular product, but is it real parmesan? Parmigiano-Reggiano is a protected cultural status product made in a specific region of northern Italy from local cow's milk and using specific historical methods. It also has to be aged for a minimum of about one year. Parmesan, on the other hand, can be made anywhere, and the aging process is shorter, only around 10 months. Kraft's product is made with pasteurized part-skim milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, cellulose powder, and potassium sorbate to protect flavor. It is also dried to prevent fat from oozing out and clumping. While Kraft's product is convenient and enhances the flavor of many dishes, some people prefer to buy a block of parmesan and grate it themselves to get the full flavor of the cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Kraft 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese |
| Texture | Drier than fresh cheese |
| Taste | Bold |
| Ingredients | Pasteurized part-skim milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, cellulose powder, potassium sorbate |
| Additives | Enzymes, Potassium sorbate |
| Allergens | Milk |
| Nutritional Concerns | High in calories, saturated fat, and sodium |
| Processing Concerns | Low |
| Contaminants | Persistent Organic Pollutant (POPs) contamination from milk, cheese, and cheese culture |
| Storage | Refrigerate at 40 degrees F, can be kept at room temperature for up to one hour |
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What You'll Learn
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese
However, it is important to note that Kraft's grated parmesan cheese is not considered "real" parmesan by some. It is made with pasteurized part-skim milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, cellulose powder, and potassium sorbate to protect flavour. This differs from traditional parmigiano-reggiano, which has a protected cultural status and strict requirements for production. Parmigiano-reggiano must be made in a specific region of northern Italy using local cow's milk and specific historical methods, and it is aged for a minimum of one year.
Kraft's grated parmesan cheese has been scored by EWG on nutrition, ingredient concerns, and the degree of processing. It contains a high level of saturated fat and is classified as having low processing concerns. It is important to note that the product contains ingredients derived from milk, which are considered major food allergens according to the FDA.
In terms of storage, Kraft advises storing its grated parmesan cheese in the refrigerator at 40 degrees F and keeping it at room temperature for no more than one hour. This is because cheese is a dairy product and can spoil if not stored properly.
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Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano
Parmigiano Reggiano is a product of a specific region of Italy, crafted with all-natural ingredients and traditional methods that are carefully monitored and strictly enforced by Italian laws. The cheese is made from the milk of the finest cattle, fed with the best fodder, and produced according to rules that have remained unchanged over the centuries. This dedication, purity, and passion for the craft can be felt from the very first bite.
The authenticity of Parmigiano Reggiano is further guaranteed by its DOP certification, which stands for Protected Designation of Origin in Italian. This certification ensures that the cheese is made in a specific region according to traditional standards, adding to the exclusivity of this variety.
When it comes to cooking with Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano, it is worth noting that the cheese can be grated and frozen for future use. However, some enthusiasts argue that grating the cheese before freezing may result in a loss of its delicate flavour. Instead, it is suggested to grate the cheese as needed, using a fine grater, to ensure the best flavour and texture.
Whether grated fresh or frozen, Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano adds a distinctive touch to any dish, making it a favourite among chefs and cheese connoisseurs alike.
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Grana Padano
About 150 factories make Grana Padano in the Po Valley area, and an estimated 76,724 tons of this cheese are manufactured annually. A wheel of Grana Padano is cylindrical, with slightly convex or almost straight sides and flat faces. It weighs 24 to 40 kg (53 to 88 lbs) per wheel. The rind, which is thin, is pale yellow.
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Pasteurization and FDA regulations
In the context of cheese production, pasteurization refers to the process of heating milk to a specific temperature for a set period of time to destroy harmful bacteria and prevent spoilage. This process is a critical aspect of food safety and is widely used in the dairy industry to ensure that milk and milk products are safe for consumption.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding public health by regulating the production and distribution of food products, including cheese. The FDA has established stringent standards and guidelines that cheese manufacturers must adhere to, encompassing various aspects of the production process. These regulations are designed to ensure that cheese products meet specific quality and safety standards, thereby protecting consumers from potential health risks.
One of the key FDA regulations pertaining to cheese production is the mandatory pasteurization of milk used in the manufacturing of certain types of cheese. This requirement is rooted in the recognition that raw milk can harbour pathogenic bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli, which pose significant health risks to consumers. By mandating pasteurization, the FDA effectively mitigates the risk of foodborne illnesses associated with the consumption of contaminated milk products.
In addition to pasteurization requirements, the FDA enforces a comprehensive set of regulations that govern the sanitary conditions in cheese manufacturing facilities. These regulations outline meticulous standards for the design and maintenance of equipment, personnel hygiene, and the prevention of contamination during the cheese-making process. By enforcing these stringent sanitary standards, the FDA safeguards the quality and wholesomeness of cheese products, minimizing the likelihood of adverse health effects in consumers.
Moreover, the FDA undertakes the crucial role of overseeing the proper labeling and marketing of cheese products. This entails ensuring that manufacturers provide accurate and comprehensive information on their product labels, including ingredients, nutritional content, and any potential allergens. Through rigorous enforcement of labeling regulations, the FDA empowers consumers to make informed choices, accommodating specific dietary needs and preferences, while also protecting against potential allergic reactions or other health concerns.
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Storing grated Parmesan
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with low moisture content, so it has a long shelf life. However, to keep grated Parmesan cheese fresh for as long as possible, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, moisture will cause spoilage, so grated Parmesan should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help to prevent condensation and keep the cheese from drying out too quickly.
When storing grated Parmesan, it is important to use the right type of container. Glass or plastic containers are ideal, or you can use a freezer bag. Some sources recommend using parchment paper, cheesecloth, cheese paper, or wax paper to wrap the cheese before placing it in the container or bag. This will help to regulate moisture and prevent spoilage.
It is also important to note that grated Parmesan should be stored separately from other foods with strong odours, as Parmesan can absorb these odours. Placing the wrapped cheese in a crisper drawer or on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator can help with this.
With proper storage, grated Parmesan cheese can last about one week in the refrigerator. If you need to keep it for longer, you can freeze it. Frozen grated Parmesan can last for three to six months and can be used straight from the freezer, although some texture and flavour may be lost.
Finally, it is important to regularly check your grated Parmesan for any signs of spoilage. Parmesan cheese will spoil if it turns yellow or begins to get mouldy. If mould does appear, it is generally safe to cut off the mouldy part and use the rest of the cheese.
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Frequently asked questions
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese is a product by Kraft, which can be used to enhance the flavour of pastas, pizzas, seafood, salads, and more.
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese is made from pasteurized part-skim milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, cellulose powder, and potassium sorbate. While it is made from milk, it is not considered to be authentic parmesan.
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese contains a high level of saturated fat. It is also derived from milk, which is considered a major food allergen according to the FDA.
Kraft advises storing its cheeses in the refrigerator at 40 degrees F and keeping them at room temperature for no more than one hour.
