Kamil Perry
If you're a cheese lover with a gluten intolerance, you may be wondering if Kirkland's Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese is safe for you to eat. Well, you'll be glad to know that this product is indeed gluten-free, according to its label. But that's not all – it's also a good source of protein and calcium, and it's lactose-free. So, go ahead and sprinkle it on your tacos or melt it into a grilled cheese sandwich without worrying about gluten or lactose intolerance.
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What You'll Learn
The product is gluten-free but not lactose-free
If you're looking for a gluten-free cheese option, Kirkland Signature Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese is a good choice. This product does not contain any gluten ingredients, according to its label. This applies to the Natural, Sharp, and regular varieties of the shredded cheese.
However, it's important to note that while the cheese is gluten-free, it is not lactose-free. The product contains ingredients that have lactose, and there are also ingredients that may contain lactose depending on their source. This is an important distinction for those with lactose intolerance or sensitivities.
The cheese is a blend of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, with added potato starch to prevent caking and natamycin as a natural mold inhibitor. The full list of ingredients includes cultured pasteurized milk, salt, enzymes, annatto (a vegetable colour added to the Cheddar cheese), and the aforementioned potato starch and natamycin.
With a serving size of 0.33 cups, this shredded cheese provides 1g of total carbs, 1g of net carbs, 8g of fat, 6g of protein, and 110 calories. It is a good source of protein and calcium and can be a convenient and tasty addition to various dishes, providing flavour and texture.
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It contains milk, cultured pasteurized milk, and enzymes
It is important to note that Kirkland Signature Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese is not dairy-free. This product contains milk and milk derivatives, which are listed as allergens. The cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk, which is a common process in cheese-making to kill harmful bacteria and extend the shelf life of the product. Cultured milk is produced by adding specific bacteria to milk, which initiates the process of converting lactose, a sugar in milk, into lactic acid. This process also adds flavour to the cheese.
The cheese also contains enzymes, which are another essential component in the cheese-making process. Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts, facilitating chemical reactions in the cheese. They play a crucial role in developing the cheese's flavour, texture, and overall quality. The enzymes used in cheese-making are typically derived from animal, plant, or microbial sources. These enzymes help transform the milk into a solid curd and contribute to the unique characteristics of the final product.
The presence of milk, cultured pasteurized milk, and enzymes in the Kirkland Signature Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese highlights the dairy-intensive nature of this product. These ingredients are integral to the cheese-making process and contribute to the flavour, texture, and overall characteristics of the cheese. It is important for individuals with dairy allergies or intolerances to be aware of these ingredients and make informed choices when consuming this product.
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It's a good source of protein and calcium
Yes, Kirkland shredded cheddar jack cheese is gluten-free. It is also a good source of protein and calcium.
Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a crucial role in the growth, development, and repair of our bodies. It is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle and other body tissues. A serving of Kirkland shredded cheddar jack cheese provides 6-7 grams of protein, contributing to the recommended daily intake of protein, which is typically 46-56 grams for women and 56-66 grams for men.
Calcium, a mineral found in dairy products like cheese, is essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth. It also plays a role in muscle function, nerve signalling, and hormonal balance. The recommended daily intake of calcium for adults is 1000-1200 mg, and including calcium-rich foods like cheese can help meet these requirements.
In addition to being a good source of protein and calcium, Kirkland shredded cheddar jack cheese also provides other nutritional benefits. It contains healthy fats, with 8-9 grams of total fat per serving, including 5 grams of saturated fat. While consuming too much saturated fat can have negative health impacts, moderate consumption of full-fat dairy products like cheese can be part of a balanced diet.
The cheese also provides energy in the form of calories, with 110 calories per serving, and can be a tasty and convenient way to boost the nutritional value of meals and snacks. However, it is important to note that cheese can also be high in sodium and calories, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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There are 110 calories per serving
It is important to be aware of the calorie content of food products, especially those that are calorie-dense and may be easy to overeat. With 110 calories per serving, Kirkland Signature Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese is relatively high in calories. This calorie count is for a serving size of around 1/4 cup or 0.33 cup, which is quite small. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of portion size when consuming this product.
The calorie content of this cheese is largely derived from its fat and protein composition. Each serving contains 9 grams of total fat, including 5 grams of saturated fat, and 7 grams of protein. This combination of nutrients contributes to the high calorie count, as both fat and protein are dense sources of energy for the body.
While 110 calories per serving may seem significant, it is important to consider the nutritional value that cheese provides. As a dairy product, cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and supporting muscle growth and repair. Additionally, cheese contains other important nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin B12, and zinc.
However, it is worth noting that the Kirkland Signature Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese is not a low-calorie food option. If calorie intake is a concern, it may be advisable to consume this product in moderation or opt for lower-calorie alternatives. Individuals watching their weight or managing specific dietary needs may want to consider the calorie content of this cheese relative to their daily intake goals.
Overall, while the cheese offers nutritional benefits, its calorie density should be considered in the context of a balanced diet and individual health goals. For those monitoring their calorie intake, this product's calorie content may be a factor in their purchasing decision.
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It may or may not be corn or pescatarian-friendly
While Kirkland Signature Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese is labelled as gluten-free, it may or may not be corn or pescatarian-friendly. This is because one of the ingredients could contain corn or be derived from red meat or poultry, depending on the source. The ingredient in question is likely to be potato starch, which is added to prevent caking. Potato starch can sometimes contain corn starch, and its source could be from either a plant-based or animal-based source.
For those on a corn-free diet, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer directly to confirm the source of the potato starch. The same applies to those on a pescatarian diet, as the source of the potato starch could be from animals. It is worth noting that the cheese is not lactose-free, containing two ingredients with lactose and two that could contain lactose, and it is also not dairy-free.
The product is, however, believed to be lupin-free, milk-free, oat-free, onion-free, peanut-free, and almond-free. It is also a good source of protein and calcium and provides 8g of fat and 6g of protein per serving (0.33 cup).
Overall, while the cheese is gluten-free, those on corn-free or pescatarian diets should exercise caution and seek further information from the manufacturer to ensure the product aligns with their dietary restrictions.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, according to the label, there are no gluten ingredients listed.
A 0.33 cup serving contains 1g carbs, 8g fat, 6g protein, and 110 calories.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses (cultured pasteurized milk, salt, enzymes, annatto (vegetable color in cheddar cheese)), potato starch, and natamycin (a natural mold inhibitor).
Yes, this product contains milk and may contain corn. It is also not lactose-free.
I cannot find information on the shelf life of this product. It is recommended to contact the manufacturer directly for more information.
