Bushra Griffith
There are various opinions on whether shredded cheese is bad for you or not. Some sources claim that the additives in pre-packaged shredded cheese, such as cellulose, a common anti-caking agent derived from wood pulp or other plant fibers, may raise health concerns for some consumers. Others argue that shredded cheese is perfectly safe to consume and that the small amount of cellulose added has no negative impact on human health. While shredded cheese may offer a longer shelf life and is more convenient, some people prefer shredding their own cheese to have greater control over the ingredients and enjoy fresher flavors. Ultimately, the decision to consume shredded cheese depends on individual preferences, convenience, and health considerations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Freshness | Pre-shredded cheese may lose its freshness and flavour over time |
| Additives | May contain additives such as cellulose (powdered cellulose, cellulose gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, or microcrystalline cellulose), potato starch, or natamycin |
| Health Concerns | No evidence that pre-shredded cheese is toxic or harmful to health. Cellulose is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. |
| Texture | May have a different texture when melted, affecting the final dish. |
| Cost | Pre-shredded cheese is more affordable and convenient than block cheese. |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- Shredded cheese contains additives like cellulose, a common anti-caking agent
- Cellulose is generally recognised as safe and is found in fruits, vegetables, grains, etc
- Pre-shredded cheese may have been sitting on a shelf for weeks, losing freshness
- Shredded cheese is convenient and easy to use, but it may not be the best option for melting
- Block cheese is recommended for those who value flavour, freshness, and a simple ingredients list
Shredded cheese contains additives like cellulose, a common anti-caking agent
Shredded cheese is often coated with an additive called cellulose, a common anti-caking agent. This additive is used to prevent shredded cheese from clumping together in its packaging. It also helps to absorb excess moisture, thus preventing mould growth and extending the shelf life of the product.
Cellulose is an organic structural compound derived from wood pulp or other plant fibres. It is sometimes listed on ingredient labels as cellulose gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, or microcrystalline cellulose. While it is generally recognised as safe by the Food and Drug Administration, some people may prefer to avoid it in their diet. This is because cellulose is derived from wood pulp, and some people may be sensitive to this ingredient.
In addition to its anti-caking properties, cellulose is also used as a calorie reducer, thickener, and texture additive. It is added to a variety of food products, including shredded cheese, to increase insoluble fibre. While it is not toxic, the inclusion of cellulose can negatively impact certain culinary uses of shredded cheese. For example, when added to sauces, the powdery substance of cellulose can alter the texture of the dish.
The inclusion of additives like cellulose in shredded cheese has raised concerns about its potential health implications. While shredded cheese with additives is generally considered safe to consume, some people may prefer to avoid these additives and opt for block cheese instead. Block cheese allows for greater control over ingredients and can be shredded at home, ensuring freshness and flavour. However, it is important to note that shredded cheese with additives can be a convenient and cost-effective option for home cooking, and the differences in taste and texture may not be significant for some applications.
How Long Does Parmesan Cheese Last?
You may want to see also
Cellulose is generally recognised as safe and is found in fruits, vegetables, grains, etc
There has been some concern about the health impact of consuming shredded cheese, with some viral videos claiming that the cheese is covered in "wood shavings", "bark", or "sawdust". However, these claims are unfounded. The substance in question is called powdered cellulose, a naturally occurring organic compound found in fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds. It is also added to many other food products to increase insoluble fiber. While some people may prefer to avoid additives in their diet, cellulose is "generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration".
According to Jen Messer, a registered dietitian and president of the New Hampshire Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, cellulose is safe for human consumption. Humans lack the enzymes to break down cellulose, so it simply passes through the digestive system without being absorbed. In larger quantities, naturally occurring cellulose can have several health benefits, including improved digestive health, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and increased feelings of fullness.
The cellulose in shredded cheese serves an important function, preventing the cheese from clumping together and absorbing excess moisture, which helps to prevent mold growth and extends the product's shelf life. It is also used as a calorie reducer, anti-caking agent, thickener, and to add texture.
While shredded cheese is safe to consume, some people may prefer to shred their own cheese to have greater control over the ingredients in their food and to ensure the freshest, most vibrant flavors.
Easy Cheese: Is It Unhealthy?
You may want to see also
Pre-shredded cheese may have been sitting on a shelf for weeks, losing freshness
Pre-shredded cheese may be convenient, but it could have been sitting on a shelf for weeks, losing its freshness. This is because shredded cheese has a larger surface area than a block of cheese, and it is therefore more prone to losing moisture and drying out. It can also be exposed to excess oxygen, which can cause the cheese to become rancid.
The shelf life of shredded cheese can be extended by adding preservatives and anti-caking agents, such as cellulose or potato starch. These additives help to absorb moisture and prevent mould growth, but they can also affect the texture and taste of the cheese. Some people may prefer to avoid these additives, as they are derived from wood pulp or plant fibres, and are not considered natural.
The use of anti-caking agents means that pre-shredded cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two months, whereas freshly grated cheese will only last for a few days. However, this extended shelf life comes at the cost of flavour and texture. Freshly grated cheese has a more vibrant flavour and a better mouthfeel.
For cheese enthusiasts, the choice is clear: shred your own. Not only does this ensure a superior flavour and texture, but it also guarantees a straightforward ingredients list, with no added preservatives or anti-caking agents. By shredding your own cheese, you can also be sure that it is of the highest quality and has been stored correctly, maintaining its freshness.
Mozzarella and Gout: Is This Cheese Safe to Eat?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Shredded cheese is convenient and easy to use, but it may not be the best option for melting
Shredded cheese is undoubtedly convenient and easy to use. It's a popular choice for those seeking a quick and simple option, without the hassle of grating a block of cheese. However, it's important to consider that shredded cheese may not be the ideal choice when it comes to melting.
The melting behaviour of shredded cheese can be influenced by several factors. Firstly, shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents like potato starch or cellulose to prevent clumping and extend shelf life. While these additives are generally recognized as safe, they can impact the melting properties of the cheese. The starch or cellulose coating may cause the cheese to brown without melting properly, resulting in an uneven or undesirable texture. This is especially noticeable in dishes like macaroni and cheese, casseroles, or when using larger quantities of cheese.
Another factor is the cheese's freshness. Pre-shredded cheese may have been sitting on store shelves for a while, losing freshness and flavour. When cheese is shredded from a fresh block, it melts more evenly and smoothly, contributing to a better overall texture in melted cheese dishes.
Additionally, the type of cheese used in shredded cheese products can vary in quality and fat content. For example, pre-shredded mozzarella is often made with skim milk, resulting in a drier texture that may not melt as well as whole milk mozzarella.
Lastly, some people prefer to avoid the additives in pre-shredded cheese, such as cellulose, derived from wood pulp or plant fibres, and natamycin, a mould inhibitor. While these additives are considered safe, some individuals may prefer a more natural diet or wish to have greater control over the ingredients in their food.
In conclusion, while shredded cheese offers convenience and ease of use, it may not be the best option for melting due to its anti-caking agents, reduced freshness, varying cheese quality, and additives that can impact the melting behaviour and overall texture of the dish. For optimal melting results, grating cheese from a fresh block is generally recommended.
Babybel Cheese: How Long Does it Last?
You may want to see also
Block cheese is recommended for those who value flavour, freshness, and a simple ingredients list
There are several reasons why block cheese is recommended for those who value flavour, freshness, and a simple ingredients list. Firstly, shredding cheese from a block ensures that you experience the flavour as intended by the cheesemaker. Pre-packaged shredded cheese may have been sitting on a shelf for weeks, losing its freshness and flavour due to prolonged refrigeration. In contrast, a block of cheese stored in optimal conditions will retain its quality, resulting in fresher and more vibrant flavours each time you shred it.
Block cheese also offers the advantage of a straightforward ingredients list. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives like cellulose or potato starch to prevent clumping and extend shelf life. While these additives are generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to avoid them, especially those seeking a more natural diet. By choosing block cheese and shredding it yourself, you have greater control over the ingredients and can ensure that your cheese is free from additives that may impact flavour or texture.
In addition to flavour and ingredient considerations, block cheese is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Pre-shredded cheese tends to be more expensive, and the additional packaging contributes to plastic waste, a significant concern in the context of global plastic pollution. By purchasing a block of cheese and shredding it as needed, you can save money and reduce your environmental impact.
Lastly, block cheese provides more versatility in terms of texture and melting behaviour. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and melting characteristics, leading to a less desirable outcome in dishes like macaroni and cheese or pizzas. With block cheese, you can grate or shred it to your desired consistency and achieve a smoother melt, enhancing the overall quality of your culinary creations.
Cheese Left Out Overnight: Safe or Not?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
No, shredded cheese is not bad for your health. Claims that cellulose, a powder found on shredded cheese, is unhealthy are unfounded. Cellulose is generally recognized as safe by the FDA and is naturally found in fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts.
Cellulose is an organic structural compound that is sometimes labelled as cellulose gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, or microcrystalline cellulose.
Cellulose is added to shredded cheese as an anti-caking agent to prevent the cheese from clumping together in packaging. It also helps to extend the shelf life of the product by preventing mould growth.
Some people may prefer to avoid shredded cheese due to the additives it contains, such as cellulose and natamycin, a mould inhibitor. Shredded cheese may also be less fresh than block cheese, as it has often been sitting on a store shelf for weeks.
Shredded cheese is more convenient and cheaper than block cheese, as it does not require grating and has a longer shelf life.
