If you have been to any grocery store in the United States, you have probably seen a green canister of Kraft Parmesan cheese on the shelf. It is a popular ingredient in many American households, used to sprinkle over pasta dishes, salads, and more. But is Kraft Parmesan real cheese

What is Kraft Parmesan Cheese

Kraft Parmesan cheese is a grated cheese product made by the American food company Kraft Foods. It comes in a green canister and is commonly used as a topping for Italian dishes.

How is it Made

Kraft Parmesan cheese is made using a combination of milk, salt, enzymes, and culture. The milk undergoes pasteurization before being mixed with the other ingredients. The mixture is then heated and pressed into small granules which are dried and aged before being grated into the familiar texture.

Is it Real Cheese

The short answer is no, Kraft Parmesan cheese is not real cheese. This may come as a surprise to many people who have been using it for years without realizing that it is actually an imitation product.

Real Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, comes from Italy and is made using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. It has a distinct nutty flavor and crumbly texture that sets it apart from imitations like Kraft Parmesan.

What are the Differences Between Real and Imitation Cheese

The main difference between real and imitation cheese lies in their ingredients and production methods. Real cheese is made from milk or cream that has been coagulated using natural enzymes or acid-producing bacteria. The curds are then separated from the whey, salted, and aged for a specific period of time to develop flavor and texture.

Imitation cheese, on the other hand, is made using a combination of milk protein concentrate, vegetable oil, and other additives. It is often processed using high heat and pressure to create a uniform texture.

Is Kraft Parmesan Safe to Eat

Yes, Kraft Parmesan cheese is safe to eat. It is made from high-quality ingredients that have been approved by the FDA for use in food products. However, it is important to note that some people may have allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients in the product.

The Bottom Line

Kraft Parmesan cheese may be a convenient and affordable option for adding flavor to your dishes, but it is not real cheese. If you are looking for an authentic Parmesan experience, it is best to opt for the real thing.

  • Real Parmesan Cheese: Made in Italy using traditional methods with milk or cream coagulated using natural enzymes or acid-producing bacteria. It has a distinct nutty flavor and crumbly texture.
  • Kraft Parmesan Cheese: Made by Kraft Foods in the United States using milk, salt, enzymes, and culture. It is an imitation product made using milk protein concentrate, vegetable oil, and other additives.

So next time you’re at the grocery store deciding between real or imitation cheese, remember that there’s no substitute for authenticity when it comes to food.