Have you ever wondered if the Parmesan cheese you’ve been buying from Sargento is real? Let’s dive into the topic and find out the truth.

What is Parmesan Cheese?

Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, dry cheese that originated in Italy. It’s made from cow’s milk and aged for at least 12 months, resulting in a nutty and salty flavor. Authentic Parmesan cheese must be made in specific regions of Italy, using traditional methods.

Is Sargento Parmesan Cheese Real?

Yes, Sargento’s Parmesan cheese is real. According to their website, they use 100% real, natural cheese that’s aged to perfection. They also claim that their Parmesan cheese is made with high-quality milk and has no artificial flavors or preservatives.

The Cellulose Controversy

There has been some controversy surrounding the use of cellulose in packaged grated Parmesan cheese products, including some of Sargento’s offerings. Cellulose is a common food additive that’s used as an anti-caking agent to keep grated cheese from clumping together.

However, some manufacturers have been found to use excessive amounts of cellulose in their products as a filler to save costs. In 2016, Bloomberg News conducted an investigation and found that one brand of grated Parmesan contained up to 8.8% cellulose.

Sargento was not implicated in this investigation but did issue a statement saying that they take quality control seriously and regularly test their products to ensure they meet their high standards.

Buying Tips

If you want to be sure you’re getting authentic Parmesan cheese without excessive fillers like cellulose, there are a few tips you can follow:

  • Look for cheeses labeled “Parmigiano-Reggiano” that are imported from Italy.
  • Buy a block of cheese and grate it yourself. This not only ensures you’re getting authentic cheese, but it also tastes fresher and has better texture.
  • Read the ingredient list and avoid products with added fillers or preservatives.

The Verdict

In conclusion, Sargento’s Parmesan cheese is real, made from high-quality milk, and aged to perfection. While there has been some controversy surrounding the use of cellulose in packaged grated Parmesan cheese products, Sargento has not been implicated in any wrongdoing. If you want to be sure you’re getting authentic Parmesan cheese without fillers, look for cheeses labeled “Parmigiano-Reggiano” imported from Italy or grate a block yourself.