Patrick Oconnell
Powdered Parmesan cheese, often sold in a can or shaker, is a convenient and cost-effective alternative to block Parmesan cheese. While it may not have the same depth of flavour as a block of Parmigiano-Reggiano, powdered Parmesan has a place in the kitchen as a flavourful, salty seasoning. In the United States, the term Parmesan is not regulated, and so it may be challenging to find real Parmesan cheese. However, in the European Union, the term Parmesan is defined by law as Parmigiano-Reggiano, which can only contain milk, salt, and rennet.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Powdered Parmesan is convenient and easy to distribute. |
| Cost | Powdered Parmesan is generally cheaper than other forms of Parmesan. |
| Taste | Powdered Parmesan lacks the complex taste of actual Parmigiano Reggiano but adds a "funky depth" to dishes. |
| Use Cases | Powdered Parmesan is good for adding to popcorn, pasta, pizza, and salad dressings. |
| Ingredients | In the US, powdered Parmesan may contain additives like cellulose powder, potassium sorbate, and cheese cultures, which are illegal in the production of Parmigiano-Reggiano. |
| Legality | In the European Union, the term "Parmesan" is legally defined as Parmigiano-Reggiano, but in the US, the term is not regulated, and products labelled as Parmesan are often imitations. |
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What You'll Learn
- Kraft's powdered parmesan cheese is legally not considered parmesan in Europe
- Parmigiano-Reggiano is protected by Italian law, which is not replicated in the US
- Cellulose powder is added to prevent caking
- Powdered parmesan is a cost-effective alternative to real parmesan
- Powdered parmesan is a good topping for popcorn, pasta, and pizza
Kraft's powdered parmesan cheese is legally not considered parmesan in Europe
In 2008, the European Union defined the word "Parmesan" as only referring to genuine Parmigiano-Reggiano made according to Italian Denominazione di Origine Controllata (D.O.C.) regulations. This means that within the European Union, Parmesan and Parmigiano-Reggiano are considered the same cheese. However, in the United States, the term "Parmesan" is not regulated, and a product labelled as Parmesan may be an imitation.
Kraft's powdered Parmesan cheese, or Kraft 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese, is considered an imitation cheese that does not meet the standards of Parmigiano-Reggiano. This is because Kraft's product contains additives and fillers, such as cellulose, that are not found in Parmigiano-Reggiano and are illegal in its production. Cellulose, made from wood pulp, is a safe and legal additive commonly used in powdered or grated Parmesan cheese products to prevent caking. However, its presence may impact the functionality of the cheese in recipes.
In 2012, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigated Castle Cheese Inc., a Pennsylvania cheese factory, and discovered that the company was adding fillers to its "100% real Parmesan." Following this, Bloomberg conducted an investigation into other store-bought grated Parmesan cheeses and found high percentages of cellulose in several brands, including Kraft. As a result, Kraft was legally forced to stop selling its cheese labelled as Parmesan in Europe.
The controversy surrounding Kraft's powdered Parmesan cheese highlights the importance of transparency and adherence to labelling regulations in the food industry. Consumers seeking pure Parmesan cheese may need to opt for wedges of Parmesan and grate the cheese themselves to avoid fillers and additives.
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Parmigiano-Reggiano is protected by Italian law, which is not replicated in the US
Parmigiano-Reggiano is a hard, granular cheese produced from cow's milk and aged for at least 12 months. It is named after two of the areas that produce it: the Italian provinces of Parma and Reggio Emilia. It is also produced in the part of Bologna west of the River Reno, Modena, and the part of Mantua (Lombardy) on the south bank of the Po River.
The name Parmigiano-Reggiano is protected by Italian law and, in Italy, exclusive control is exercised over the cheese's production and sale by The Consortium of Parmigiano-Reggiano. Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano can only be made in this specific region of Italy with all-natural ingredients, according to a traditional method that is carefully monitored and strictly enforced by Italian laws. The Consortium ensures that each wheel meets strict criteria early in the aging process to merit the official seal and be placed in storage for aging.
In the United States, the name Parmesan is not regulated. While the term "Parmesan" may refer to Parmigiano-Reggiano, it has become genericized outside of the European Union and is often used to denote locally produced imitations. These imitations are made from similar ingredients and produced using the same methods as Parmigiano-Reggiano, but because they are made outside of the designated region, they are considered imitations under Italian law.
The United States does not have Protected Designation of Origin laws like those found in the European Union. As a result, Parmigiano-Reggiano produced in the United States may be sold domestically, but it cannot be legally sold in the European Union.
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Cellulose powder is added to prevent caking
Powdered Parmesan cheese is an alternative to grated Parmesan cheese. It is finely milled, making it perfect for adding a rich flavor to dishes without altering their texture. Kraft Parmesan, for example, is considered "real" Parmesan in the US, where the term is not regulated by law. However, in the European Union, the word "Parmesan" is defined by law as genuine Parmigiano-Reggiano, made according to Italian D.O.C. regulations.
Cellulose powder, also known as cellulose gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, or microcrystalline cellulose, is often added to powdered Parmesan cheese to prevent caking. Caking occurs when the cheese clumps together in packaging due to moisture. As an organic structural compound, cellulose absorbs this excess moisture, preventing the cheese from caking and also inhibiting mold growth, thereby extending the product's shelf life.
Cellulose powder is derived from plant sources, typically wood pulp or cotton lint. It is safe to consume and is recognized as such by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Humans lack the enzymes to digest cellulose, so it passes through the digestive system without being absorbed. While it is considered dietary fiber, the amount added to shredded cheese is negligible and does not significantly contribute to daily fiber intake.
The addition of cellulose powder to prevent caking is not limited to Parmesan cheese but is also common in other shredded cheese products. While some consumers may have concerns about the presence of cellulose, experts assure that both pre-shredded and block cheeses with cellulose additives are healthy and safe for consumption.
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Powdered parmesan is a cost-effective alternative to real parmesan
Powdered parmesan cheese is a convenient and cost-effective alternative to real parmesan. While it may not have the same complex flavour as Parmigiano Reggiano, it is a versatile and affordable option for adding a cheesy flavour to various dishes.
Powdered parmesan is made from finely milled cheese, which gives it a unique texture that sets it apart from traditional grated or shredded parmesan. This fine powder allows it to be easily distributed and incorporated into recipes, making it a useful ingredient for home cooks.
One of the most significant advantages of powdered parmesan is its cost-effectiveness. It is generally less expensive than buying a block of parmesan cheese, making it a budget-friendly option for those who want to add a cheesy flavour to their meals without breaking the bank. This affordability also means that cooks can be more generous with their usage, sprinkling it on dishes like popcorn, salads, and pasta without worrying about the cost.
In addition to its cost-effectiveness, powdered parmesan also has functional benefits. Its fine texture makes it ideal for dishes where fresh parmesan may not work as well. For example, when sprinkled on pizza, it acts as a seasoning rather than an additional cheese, enhancing the flavour without distracting from the star ingredient—the mozzarella. Similarly, on popcorn, the powdered cheese coats the kernels more effectively than grated parmesan, providing an even and consistent coating of cheesy goodness.
While powdered parmesan may not be a perfect substitute for authentic Parmigiano Reggiano in all dishes, it certainly has its place in the kitchen. Its convenience, affordability, and unique textural properties make it a valuable ingredient for cooks who want to add a cheesy kick to their creations without spending a fortune. So, the next time you're looking for a cost-effective and versatile cheese option, consider giving powdered parmesan a try!
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Powdered parmesan is a good topping for popcorn, pasta, and pizza
Powdered parmesan is a versatile and convenient ingredient that can enhance the flavour of various dishes, including popcorn, pasta, and pizza. While it may not offer the same complexity as a freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, it has its advantages and use cases. Here's why powdered parmesan is a great topping for these foods:
Popcorn
Powdered parmesan is a delightful addition to popcorn. Its fine texture allows it to coat the kernels evenly, especially when butter is involved. It provides a cheesy flavour without the hassle of grating your own cheese, which may not stick to the popcorn as well. The convenience and flavour of powdered parmesan make it a perfect match for popcorn, whether you're enjoying it at home or as a playful appetizer at a wine bar.
Pasta
When it comes to pasta, powdered parmesan shines as a cost-effective and flavourful option. A cup and a half of powdered parmesan can transform a simple pasta dish into a cheesy, satisfying meal. It blends seamlessly into the pasta without becoming stringy or clumpy, which can sometimes happen with fresh parmesan. For a quick and tasty pasta dish, toss cooked pasta in olive oil, garlic, pepper, and other seasonings, then add the cheese and mix thoroughly.
Pizza
Powdered parmesan is an excellent choice for pizza toppings. Its salty flavour and seasoning-like quality make it a perfect complement to the star of the show—the mozzarella. Freshly grated cheese may distract from the main event, but powdered parmesan enhances the overall flavour without stealing the spotlight. It's a subtle yet effective way to add a cheesy kick to your pizza without overwhelming the other ingredients.
While powdered parmesan may not be a direct substitute for a freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, it has its place in the culinary world. It is a convenient, cost-effective, and flavourful option for those seeking a quick cheesy fix without compromising the texture and taste of their favourite dishes. So, the next time you're craving popcorn, pasta, or pizza with a cheesy twist, don't hesitate to reach for the powdered parmesan!
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Frequently asked questions
Powdered Parmesan cheese is an alternative to grated Parmesan cheese. It is finely milled, making it perfect for adding a rich flavor without affecting the texture of the food item.
In the US, the word "Parmesan" doesn't have a regulated meaning, so it can be used to refer to real Parmigiano-Reggiano or imitation cheese. In the European Union, the word "Parmesan" is defined by law as only genuine Parmigiano-Reggiano made according to Italian D.O.C. regulations. Kraft's powdered Parmesan cheese, for example, contains additives like cellulose powder, potassium sorbate, and cheese cultures, which are not found in real Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Powdered Parmesan cheese is convenient, cost-effective, and easy to distribute. It can enhance the flavor of various dishes, such as pizza, pasta, popcorn, and salads, without affecting their texture.
Powdered Parmesan cheese can be used as a stand-in when using nicer cheese is not possible. While it may not have the same complex flavor as real Parmigiano-Reggiano, it serves a purpose in adding a cheesy flavor to dishes where the cheese is not the star ingredient.
