Patrick Oconnell
Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular dairy product made from finely ground, aged Parmesan cheese. It is a hard, granular Italian cheese produced from cow's milk. In 2016, Bloomberg's investigation revealed that some grated Parmesan cheese products advertised as 100% cheese contained high amounts of cellulose, an FDA-approved filler made from wood pulp and cotton. This sparked lawsuits against several purveyors of grated Parmesan cheese, including Kraft, which was forced to stop selling its Parmesan cheese in Europe. While pre-grated Parmesan cheese is convenient, it may not deliver the same flavour as freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which is considered the good stuff by some.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is grated parmesan cheese dairy? | Yes, grated parmesan cheese is a popular dairy product made from the finely ground, powdery texture of aged parmesan cheese. |
| What is parmesan cheese made from? | Parmesan cheese is an Italian hard, granular cheese produced from cow's milk. |
| What is grated parmesan cheese made from? | It depends on the brand. Kraft 100% grated parmesan cheese contains non-dairy ingredients like cellulose powder, potassium sorbate, and cheese cultures. |
| How to store grated parmesan cheese? | Store grated parmesan cheese in an airtight container in the fridge right after you use it. For long-term storage, consider freezing it. |
| How to detect if grated parmesan cheese has gone bad? | Check for an off smell or a change in color. The texture may also become clumpy, slimy, or mouldy, which are signs of spoilage. |
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What You'll Learn
Kraft's grated Parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese is a dairy product, as it is made from milk. However, some grated Parmesan cheese products, such as Kraft's 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese, have been criticised for containing non-dairy ingredients and being far removed from traditional Parmesan cheese.
The product contains ingredients such as pasteurized part-skim milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, cellulose powder, and potassium sorbate. While it is made with milk, some have questioned whether it can truly be considered Parmesan cheese due to the presence of additives and the absence of certain traditional ingredients.
In Europe, Kraft was legally forced to stop selling its cheese labelled as Parmesan due to regulations requiring the cheese to be produced in Parma or Reggio Emilia to be labelled as such. However, in the United States, food labelling regulations are less strict, and the term "Parmesan" is not as tightly controlled. This has led to confusion among consumers, as the Kraft product differs significantly from traditional Parmigiano-Reggiano in terms of ingredients, production methods, and flavour.
Some chefs and food enthusiasts recommend purchasing a block of Parmigiano-Reggiano and grating it fresh, as it has a stronger flavour and is considered a higher-quality product. However, Kraft's grated Parmesan cheese can be a more convenient and affordable option for those on a tight budget or looking for a quick and easy way to add cheese to their dishes.
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Grated Parmesan cheese in the US
Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular dairy product in the US, often used as a topping for pasta and salads. However, there has been controversy surrounding the authenticity of grated Parmesan cheese sold in the country. In 2016, an investigation by Bloomberg revealed that several leading brands of grated Parmesan cheese labelled as "'100% cheese' contained high amounts of cellulose, an FDA-approved filler made from wood pulp and cotton. This sparked lawsuits and recalls of certain products from store shelves.
The controversy highlights the issue of food fraud and the challenge of finding authentic Parmesan cheese in the US market. While pre-grated Parmesan cheese is convenient, it is often of lower quality and may contain additives or fillers. Some sources suggest that buying a block of Parmigiano-Reggiano, the traditional Italian variety, and grating it yourself yields the best results in terms of flavour and texture. However, this option may be more expensive and less convenient for some consumers.
In the US, the term "Parmesan" is not strictly regulated, and products sold as Parmesan cheese may vary widely in quality and authenticity. While some US-made Parmesan cheeses, such as those from Wisconsin, have gained recognition for their quality, others have been criticised for being far removed from the traditional Italian variety. The use of the term "Parmesan" for these cheeses has even faced objections from Italy, where the protection of the "Parmigiano-Reggiano" name is strictly enforced.
Despite the controversy, there are still some reputable options for grated Parmesan cheese available in US grocery stores. BelGioioso, for example, has been praised for its shredded and grated Parmesan cheese options. Other brands mentioned in taste tests and rankings include Organic Valley, 365, Trader Joe's, Frigo, Good & Gather, Sargento, Emporium Selection, Lucerne, Market Pantry, Reggano, Great Value, and Kraft. While some of these brands have faced scrutiny over the authenticity of their ingredients, they continue to be widely available and popular choices for consumers seeking convenience and flavour.
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Grated Parmesan cheese in Europe
Grated Parmesan cheese is a hard, granular cheese produced from cow's milk and aged for at least 12 months. In Europe, the term Parmesan is legally protected and may only be used to refer to Parmigiano Reggiano, which must be produced in a restricted geographic area, namely Parma or Reggio Emilia, using stringently defined methods. This cheese is often simply referred to as Parmesan outside of Europe, and in the United States, the term has become genericised, with several hard Italian-style grating cheeses being marketed under names such as Parmesan, Parmigiana, Parmesana, and Real Parma.
Within Europe, several food scandals have emerged regarding grated Parmesan cheese. An investigation by Bloomberg revealed that some grated Parmesan cheeses advertised as "100% cheese" contained high amounts of cellulose, an FDA-approved filler made from wood pulp and cotton. This led to several retailers removing products from their stores and conducting investigations. Kraft, a major North American producer of grated Parmesan, was also found to be adding illegal ingredients to its "100% Parmesan" cheese, which was ultimately banned in Europe.
While grated Parmesan cheese can be purchased in Europe, it is worth noting that the quality and authenticity of the cheese may vary. Some manufacturers have been found to add anti-caking agents and other fillers to their products, which can affect the taste and texture of the cheese. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase a block of Parmigiano Reggiano and grate it yourself to ensure the best quality and flavour.
When purchasing grated Parmesan cheese in Europe, it is important to look for the protected designation of origin label, which guarantees that the product is authentic Parmigiano Reggiano. Additionally, checking the ingredients list for any added fillers or anti-caking agents can help ensure that you are buying a high-quality product. While pre-grated Parmesan cheese can be convenient, grating your own cheese from a block of Parmigiano Reggiano will result in a superior flavour and melting quality for your dishes.
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Grated Parmesan cheese in Canada
Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular ingredient in Canada, used to enhance the flavour of various dishes. Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese with a grainy texture and a sharp, fruity taste. It is typically produced from cow's milk or goat's milk and is rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins. In Canada, Parmesan cheese is ripened for a minimum of 10 months and has a minimum milk fat content of 22%.
The term "Grana" is synonymous with Parmesan and is applied to grated cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano due to their granular texture. Parmigiano Reggiano is the most well-known cheese of origin and is considered the essential ingredient of Italian cuisine. However, many countries, including Canada, produce imitation Parmesan cheeses that do not live up to the quality and craftsmanship of the original.
Several leading brands of grated Parmesan cheese in Canada have come under scrutiny for containing non-dairy ingredients, particularly cellulose, an FDA-approved filler made from wood pulp and cotton. This has sparked lawsuits and recalls, as some companies advertised their products as "100% cheese." While the use of anti-caking agents like cellulose is common and approved by the FDA, it has raised concerns among consumers about the authenticity and quality of grated Parmesan cheese.
To ensure the best quality and flavour, it is recommended to purchase Parmesan cheese in blocks and grate it as needed. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese can enhance pasta dishes, soups, soufflés, stuffed vegetables, and baked goods. It can also be served as an appetizer or paired with salads and fruit. When buying pre-grated Parmesan cheese, consumers should be aware of the ingredients and choose products that are high-quality and locally sourced.
In summary, grated Parmesan cheese is widely used in Canada, but it is important to distinguish between authentic Parmesan cheese and imitations. By understanding the characteristics of genuine Parmesan cheese, such as its texture, taste, and ingredients, consumers can make informed choices when purchasing grated Parmesan cheese in Canada.
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How to store grated Parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese made from cow's milk with a distinctive, slightly nutty flavour. It is used in pasta dishes, salads, and even soups. However, since recipes only call for a small amount of Parmesan, knowing how to store the remaining grated Parmesan cheese is important.
The simplest way to store grated Parmesan cheese is to use an airtight container. This prevents moisture from getting to the cheese, reducing the likelihood of clumping and altering the flavour. Cool temperatures also help to prevent moisture absorption, so the airtight container should be placed in the refrigerator, ideally kept below 5°C.
To further prevent clumping, freshly grated Parmesan cheese should be used within two weeks of storing it. Adding a small amount of cornstarch to the grated Parmesan can also help absorb moisture and prevent clumping without affecting flavour or quality.
Purchasing pre-grated Parmesan in a bag is not recommended, as the packaging encourages moisture, increasing the likelihood of clumping. Instead, it is better to buy a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself as needed, as the reduced surface area will help reduce moisture absorption.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, grated Parmesan is a dairy product made from the finely ground, powdery texture of aged Parmesan cheese. It is produced from cow's milk and has a strong, savoury flavour and a distinct aroma.
Grated Parmesan cheese is a convenient, quick option for consumers. It is often packaged in containers or shakers, making it easy to sprinkle on dishes. However, it may not have the same depth of flavour as freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred by some for its superior taste and authenticity.
Kraft is a well-known brand that offers grated Parmesan cheese. It is widely available and appreciated for its convenience and affordability. However, some consumers have questioned the authenticity and quality of Kraft's grated Parmesan. Other brands mentioned include Racconto, DeLallo, and Essential Everyday Parmesan Cheese.
To extend the shelf life of grated Parmesan cheese, it is recommended to store it in an airtight container in the fridge immediately after use. For long-term storage, grated Parmesan can be frozen, either in a freezer-safe bag or divided into small portions. Avoid defrosting and refreezing, and always use a clean utensil to handle the cheese to prevent contamination.
Yes, there are several indicators to check if grated Parmesan cheese has spoiled. Look for any changes in smell, colour, texture, or the presence of mould. If the cheese develops an off smell, changes colour, becomes clumpy or slimy, or shows mould growth, discard it as it has deteriorated.
