Where Did Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese Go?

If you're a cheese lover, you've probably noticed that reduced-fat cheddar cheese has been hard to come by on store shelves. Once a popular option for those watching their calorie intake, this sharp and flavorful cheese seems to have vanished from many grocery lists. So, what happened to it? Did it melt away into obscurity, or is there a more intriguing reason behind its absence? Let's delve into the story of reduced-fat cheddar cheese and uncover the truth behind its disappearance from our fridges.

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Reduced-fat cheddar cheese availability at Target

Target offers a variety of reduced-fat cheddar cheese options. The most common product is the Good & Gather brand, which offers shredded and sliced reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese. The shredded variety comes in a 7oz package, while the sliced cheese comes in an 8oz/12-slice package. Both products are available for same-day delivery, drive-up, or order pickup, with free standard shipping for orders over $35.

In addition to the Good & Gather brand, Target also offers reduced-fat cheddar cheese from other brands such as Kraft, which offers shredded and sliced options, and Babybel, which offers a reduced-fat white cheddar option. Other reduced-fat cheese options available at Target include shredded queso fresco supremo, feta, and BelGioioso Parmesan.

While the availability of reduced-fat cheddar cheese at Target appears to be consistent, it is always a good idea to check the store's website or app for real-time inventory updates, as product availability may vary depending on location and stock levels.

To ensure you get the product you're looking for, you can use the store locator feature on Target's website to find the nearest Target store and check its inventory. Additionally, you can take advantage of Target's convenient delivery and pickup options, making it easy to shop for reduced-fat cheddar cheese without even having to enter the store.

Sargento's shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese

The reduced-fat variety has a bold, sharp flavor that can stand up to stronger ingredients and seasonings. The 7-oz package contains 1-3/4 cups of shredded cheese and features an easy-close FreshLock® package to maintain freshness for up to five days after opening. The cheese is made with pasteurized reduced-fat milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto (a vegetable color), with added ingredients like potato starch and powdered cellulose to prevent caking and natamycin as a natural mold inhibitor.

Sargento's reduced-fat cheddar cheese is ideal for those with specific lifestyle goals who want to reduce their fat intake without sacrificing flavor. While it is not a low-calorie food, it is a better option for those watching their fat intake. The cheese is also available in a medium sharpness variety, which is perfect for sandwiches, grilled cheese, subs, and wraps, and is a convenient option for picnics and parties.

Reduced-fat cheddar cheese ingredients

Reduced-fat cheddar cheese is still available at several major retailers, including Target and Cabot Creamery, which offer shredded and deli bar options, respectively. This cheese is ideal for those with certain lifestyle goals or dietary preferences.

The ingredients in reduced-fat cheddar cheese typically include:

• Pasteurized reduced-fat milk
• Cheese culture
• Salt
• Enzymes
• Annatto (vegetable colour)
• Vitamin A palmitate
• Potato starch (to prevent caking)
• Powdered cellulose (to prevent caking)
• Natamycin (a natural mould inhibitor)

The reduced-fat variety of cheddar cheese has 50% less fat than the regular version, but it still delivers a delicious, smooth taste and a sharp bite. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in casseroles, mac and cheese, cheese soups, omelettes, and as a topping for snacks and dishes like cast iron chicken.

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Recommended daily intake of reduced-fat cheddar cheese

Cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, but it is also high in cholesterol and saturated fat. Eating too much saturated fat and cholesterol increases your risk of high LDL cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to how much cheese you are consuming and stay within the recommended daily amount.

The American Heart Association recommends that no more than 5% to 6% of your daily calories should come from saturated fat. For a person consuming 2,000 calories per day, this means no more than 13 grams (or 120 calories) of saturated fat per day.

A 30g portion of cheddar cheese provides seven per cent of your daily calories and more salt than a packet of crisps. A generous handful of cheddar, weighing around 50g, adds more than 10% of your daily calorie requirement in the form of 230kcal.

Therefore, it is recommended to keep cheese portions small and opt for lower-fat cheeses, such as mozzarella, feta, cottage cheese, or reduced-fat cheeses, to reduce your intake of saturated fat.

Reduced-fat cheddar cheese recipes

Reduced-fat cheddar cheese is a great option for those looking to cut down on fat without compromising on taste. This versatile cheese can be used in a variety of recipes, adding a delicious, smooth taste to your meals. Here are some ideas for recipes using reduced-fat cheddar cheese:

Casseroles and Bakes

Add a creamy, cheesy flavour to your casseroles and bakes by incorporating shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese. It melts beautifully and can be used as a topping for dishes like mac and cheese or a potato bake.

Omelettes and Frittatas

For a protein-packed breakfast or brunch option, reduced-fat cheddar cheese is a perfect addition to omelettes and frittatas. Try a sharp cheddar for extra flavour, and pair it with vegetables like spinach, peppers, or mushrooms for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Soups

Cheese soups, especially those with a cheddar base, are a great way to use reduced-fat cheddar cheese. The cheese adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavour to the soup. Try pairing it with some herbs and spices like thyme or paprika for an extra kick.

Snacks and Appetizers

Reduced-fat cheddar cheese can be a tasty and healthier option for snacks and appetizers. Try making cheese crisps by baking shredded reduced-fat cheddar into crispy, crunchy snacks. You can also use it as a topping for crackers or apple slices, or even make your own cheese dip by melting the cheese with some milk and spices.

Salads

Add some flavour and texture to your salads by sprinkling on some shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese. It pairs well with a variety of salad ingredients, like tomatoes, avocados, or grilled chicken. You can also try making a reduced-fat cheddar cheese dressing by blending it with some yoghurt, milk, and herbs.

With these recipes, you can enjoy the taste of cheddar cheese while staying on track with your lifestyle goals. Reduced-fat cheddar cheese is a versatile and delicious option for those looking to make healthier choices without compromising on flavour.

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