If you’re a fan of Kraft Parmesan cheese, you may have heard the rumors swirling around that it contains wood chips. But is there any truth to these claims? Let’s take a closer look.

The Background:

The rumors about wood chips in Kraft Parmesan cheese started circulating several years ago. It was alleged that the company was using cellulose, a common plant-based food additive, to bulk up their grated cheese product. Cellulose is often extracted from wood pulp and can be used as a thickener or stabilizer in processed foods.

However, some reports suggested that some manufacturers were using excessive amounts of cellulose and even adding other fillers like wood pulp to their products. This led to concerns about the safety and quality of the food we consume.

Kraft’s Response:

In response to these allegations, Kraft issued a statement clarifying that their Parmesan cheese did not contain any wood pulp or sawdust. They also stated that they use cellulose as an anti-caking agent in their grated Parmesan cheese, but only in small quantities (less than 2%).

What is Cellulose?

Cellulose is a naturally occurring carbohydrate found in the cell walls of plants. It’s a type of fiber that’s commonly used in processed foods like shredded cheese, ice cream, and salad dressings as an emulsifier and thickener.

According to the FDA, cellulose is considered safe for human consumption and has been approved for use in food products for over 50 years. It’s also considered to be a good source of dietary fiber.

The Bottom Line:

After investigating these claims, it seems that the rumors about Kraft Parmesan cheese containing wood chips are unfounded. While they do use cellulose as an anti-caking agent in their grated Parmesan cheese product, it’s only used in small amounts and is considered safe by the FDA.

It’s always important to be aware of the ingredients in the foods we consume, but in this case, it seems that the concerns about Kraft Parmesan cheese were overblown.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Kraft Parmesan cheese does not contain wood chips. While they do use cellulose as an anti-caking agent, it’s a safe and commonly used food additive. As always, it’s important to read ingredient labels and make informed choices about the foods we consume.