Randy Chandler
Kraft's Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese is a popular product, but is it suitable for those avoiding gluten? The short answer is yes, Kraft cheese is considered gluten-free. This includes the Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese with Hot Jalapeno Peppers, which blends natural cheddar with real jalapenos for an irresistible spicy flavour. Kraft's cheese products are made from milk, enzymes, and salt, with no gluten ingredients.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8 oz |
| Ingredients | Cultured Pasteurized Milk, Jalapeno Peppers, Salt, Enzymes, Natamycin |
| Allergens | Milk |
| Additives | Cellulose, Potato Starch, Natamycin |
| Sodium Content | 210.0 grams |
| Gluten-Free | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
Kraft Jalapeño Cheddar Cheese ingredients
Kraft Jalapeño Cheddar Cheese is a blend of rich, natural cheddar cheese and real jalapeño peppers. The cheese is made from fresh milk, sourced from cows that are not treated with artificial growth hormones, such as rbST. In addition to milk, the product contains cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and natamycin, a natural mould inhibitor.
The milk used in Kraft shredded cheese is the primary ingredient, and it is combined with other ingredients to create the distinctive flavour and texture of the final product. The cheese culture, also known as cultured pasteurized milk, is essential for the fermentation process, which transforms milk into cheese. Salt is added to enhance flavour and act as a preservative, while enzymes aid in the cheese-making process by promoting milk curdling.
The jalapeño peppers in the cheese provide a spicy kick and a unique flavour. These peppers are carefully selected and blended into the cheese to create a consistent heat level rated as 3 out of 4 peppers on the Kraft heat scale. The addition of jalapeño peppers not only enhances the taste but also gives the cheese a signature spicy aroma.
Kraft Jalapeño Cheddar Cheese is also made without gluten-containing ingredients, making it a gluten-free option for consumers. While ingredients can change, Kraft cheese products are generally considered safe for people with celiac disease or those following a gluten-free diet. This is important for consumers with gluten intolerance or allergies, ensuring they can enjoy the product without concern.
The absence of gluten in Kraft Jalapeño Cheddar Cheese is advantageous for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary preferences that require gluten avoidance. It provides an option for those who want to incorporate spicy, cheesy flavours into their meals without compromising their dietary restrictions. This gluten-free aspect adds to the versatility of the product, making it suitable for a wider range of consumers.
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Gluten-free ingredients
Kraft Jalapeño Cheddar Cheese with Hot Jalapeño Peppers is made with natural cheddar cheese and jalapeño peppers. The cheese is made from milk, enzymes, and salt, and the milk comes from cows that are not treated with artificial growth hormones. This product is also free from gluten ingredients and is considered safe for people with celiac disease.
- Rice: White rice, brown rice, wild rice, and rice flour are all gluten-free alternatives to wheat-based products.
- Corn: Corn is naturally gluten-free, and corn flour, cornmeal, and cornstarch can be used as substitutes for wheat flour.
- Quinoa: A gluten-free grain that is high in protein and can be used in place of rice or other grains.
- Buckwheat: Despite its name, buckwheat is not related to wheat and is gluten-free. It can be used to make buckwheat flour, which is commonly used in gluten-free baking.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, and potato starch is often used as a thickener or stabilizer in gluten-free products.
In addition to these primary ingredients, there are several additives and preservatives in Kraft cheese that are also gluten-free. These include cellulose, a plant-derived fiber that prevents the cheese from clumping, and natamycin, a natural mold inhibitor.
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Additives and preservatives
Kraft cheddar cheese with jalapeño peppers contains a number of additives and preservatives, which are commonly found in Kraft shredded cheese products. These additives and preservatives are naturally gluten-free and safe for people with celiac disease.
One of the most common additives in Kraft shredded cheese is cellulose, a type of plant-derived fibre that prevents the cheese from clumping together. Cellulose is gluten-free and is often used in food products to add texture and bulk. Another additive used in Kraft shredded cheese is potato starch, which acts as a thickener and stabilizer. Potato starch is also gluten-free and is commonly used in gluten-free baking and cooking.
Kraft shredded cheese also contains natamycin, a natural mold inhibitor that helps keep the cheese fresh. Natamycin is produced by bacteria and is often used as a food preservative, particularly in dairy and meat products. It is effective at inhibiting the growth of mold and other microorganisms, helping to extend the shelf life of the product.
In addition to these additives and preservatives, Kraft cheddar cheese with jalapeño peppers contains other ingredients such as cultured pasteurized milk, jalapeño peppers, salt, and enzymes. These ingredients work together to create a rich and spicy flavour that is perfect for adding to tacos, crackers, or a game-day cheese platter.
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Celiac disease and gluten
Kraft's Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese with Hot Jalapeno Peppers is a convenient way to spice up your meals. This cheese block is easy to shred, slice, or cut into cubes, making it a versatile addition to various dishes, from tacos to mac and cheese. The product is made with cultured pasteurized milk, jalapeno peppers, salt, and enzymes, and it contains milk. While this product contains no gluten, those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance must be cautious about their food choices.
Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder affecting about 6% of the US population. When people with celiac disease consume gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, their bodies mount an immune response that attacks the small intestine. These attacks damage the villi, small finger-like projections lining the small intestine, which are responsible for promoting nutrient absorption. As a result, untreated celiac disease can lead to serious health problems, including other autoimmune disorders such as type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis, dermatitis herpetiformis, anemia, osteoporosis, infertility, neurological conditions, heart disease, and intestinal cancers.
The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict, lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet. People with celiac disease must avoid foods containing wheat, rye, and barley, such as bread and beer. Even ingesting small amounts of gluten, like crumbs from a cutting board or toaster, can trigger damage to the small intestine. Therefore, it is crucial for those with celiac disease to be vigilant about their food choices and ensure a strict gluten-free diet to manage their condition effectively.
It is important to note that gluten-free diets are not always healthier. Many grains containing gluten also provide essential vitamins and iron, which may be lacking in gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, gluten-free products can be higher in ultra-processed grains, refined carbohydrates, and sugars, which can alter the gut microbiome. As a result, it is recommended that gluten-free diets be medically prescribed and accompanied by efforts to incorporate adequate vitamin D, vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and fiber through other foods or supplements.
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Kraft cheese sodium content
Kraft's Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese with Hot Jalapeno Peppers contains 210 grams of sodium per 8-ounce block. The product is made with natural cheddar cheese and jalapeno peppers, and it delivers an irresistibly spicy flavor. This block cheese can be shredded, sliced, or cubed, making it a versatile addition to various dishes.
While this particular variety of Kraft cheese offers a convenient way to add spice to meals, it's important to consider the sodium content in relation to a healthy diet. Sodium intake is an essential part of nutrition, but excessive consumption can have negative health consequences. The recommended daily sodium intake for adults is less than 2,300 milligrams, which is equivalent to about one teaspoon of table salt.
The Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese contains a significant amount of sodium, with 310 milligrams per slice, contributing to 13% of the recommended daily value. This relatively high sodium content is a common feature of processed cheese products, and it's one of the reasons why nutritionists have criticized Kraft's "Kids Eat Right" campaign, arguing that these products are not exactly "health foods."
When incorporating Kraft cheese into your diet, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and to balance it with other nutritious options. For children, the American Heart Association provides guidelines indicating that their calorie needs vary based on age, with daily fat intake ranging from 25% to 35% of total calories, and saturated fat making up no more than 10% of calories. A single slice of Kraft cheese can provide 4 grams of fat, which is a considerable proportion of a child's daily allowance. Therefore, it's crucial to offer a variety of healthy fat options, such as milk, yogurt, avocados, nuts, lean meat, and beans, while also considering the overall nutritional needs of growing children.
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Frequently asked questions
Kraft Cheddar Cheese with Jalapeño Peppers is made without gluten ingredients and is considered naturally gluten-free. It is safe for people with celiac disease. However, ingredients can change without notice, so always read the ingredient labels and avoid gluten ingredients and allergen warnings.
Kraft Cheddar Cheese with Jalapeño Peppers is made with cultured pasteurized milk, jalapeño peppers, salt, enzymes, and natamycin (a natural mold inhibitor). The milk used is sourced from cows that are not treated with artificial growth hormones.
Kraft rates this cheese 3 out of 4 peppers on their heat scale.
Kraft Cheddar Cheese with Jalapeño Peppers should be kept refrigerated. Once opened, it should be used within 5 days.
