If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, chances are you’ve used Parmesan cheese in your recipes. It’s a staple ingredient in dishes like pasta, risotto, and pizza.
But have you ever wondered if the store-bought Parmesan cheese you use is real In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what goes into store-bought Parmesan cheese and whether it’s the real deal or not.
What is Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is a hard, aged cheese that originates from Italy. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a sharp, nutty flavor.
The traditional method of making Parmesan involves heating milk and adding rennet to curdle it. The curds are then cut into small pieces and cooked before being pressed into molds. The cheese is then left to age for several months to develop its distinctive flavor.
What Goes into Store-Bought Parmesan Cheese
While traditional Parmesan cheese is made using only three ingredients – milk, rennet, and salt – store-bought versions often contain additional ingredients. One common additive is cellulose powder, which is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent the cheese from clumping together. Some brands also add other types of cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for flavor.
The use of additives in store-bought Parmesan cheese has been a point of controversy in recent years. In 2016, an investigation by Bloomberg found that some brands were using fillers like wood pulp in their grated Parmesan cheese products.
Is Store-Bought Parmesan Cheese Real
The answer to this question depends on your definition of “real.” If you’re looking for traditional, authentic Italian Parmesan cheese made using only milk, rennet, and salt – then no, store-bought versions are not real. However, if you’re looking for a cheese product that contains Parmesan cheese as an ingredient, then store-bought versions are real.
It’s worth noting that not all store-bought Parmesan cheese products are created equal. Some brands use higher-quality ingredients and fewer additives than others. When shopping for Parmesan cheese, it’s a good idea to read the label carefully to see what ingredients are included.
Conclusion
So, is store-bought Parmesan cheese real The answer is yes and no.
While store-bought versions may contain additional ingredients like cellulose powder or other types of cheeses, they still contain real Parmesan cheese. If you’re looking for authentic Italian Parmesan cheese made using traditional methods, your best bet is to look for products labeled “Parmigiano-Reggiano.” Otherwise, be sure to read the label carefully and choose a brand that uses high-quality ingredients and minimal additives.