If you’re a fan of spaghetti with Parmesan cheese on top, you might have noticed that Kraft Grated Parmesan cheese is a go-to option for many. But is it actually real cheese? The answer might surprise you.
What is Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese?
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese is a popular brand of pre-grated cheese that is commonly used for pasta dishes, salads, and other recipes that call for Parmesan cheese. It comes in a green canister and can be found in most grocery stores.
Is it Real Cheese?
The short answer is yes, Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese is made from real cheese. However, it’s important to note that it’s not 100% pure Parmesan cheese.
According to the FDA, any product labeled as “Parmesan cheese” must be made from 100% Parmesan cheese. However, Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese contains added ingredients like cellulose powder and potassium sorbate to prevent clumping and extend its shelf life.
So while Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese does contain real Parmesan cheese, it’s not pure and may contain other additives.
What Are the Ingredients?
Here are the ingredients listed on the back of a can of Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese:
- Parmesan Cheese (Pasteurized Part-Skim Milk, Salt, Less than 2% Enzymes)
- Romano Cheese Made from Cow’s Milk (Pasteurized Part-Skim Milk, Salt, Less than 2% Enzymes)
- Cellulose Powder
- Potassium Sorbate to Protect Flavor
- Contains: Milk
As you can see, while the first two ingredients are real cheeses (Parmesan and Romano), there are also additives like cellulose powder and potassium sorbate.
Is it Safe to Eat?
Yes, Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese is safe to eat. The FDA has approved the use of cellulose powder and potassium sorbate in food products, and they are generally recognized as safe.
However, some people may have sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients, so it’s always a good idea to check the ingredient list before consuming any food product.
The Bottom Line
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese is made from real cheese, but it’s not 100% pure Parmesan cheese. It contains added ingredients like cellulose powder and potassium sorbate. While these additives are safe to consume, some people may prefer to use pure Parmesan cheese without any additional ingredients.