Are you a fan of Parmesan cheese? Do you love sprinkling it on your pasta and salads?
But have you ever wondered what this cheese is made up of or if it contains cellulose? Let’s delve into the world of Parmesan cheese and find out.
What is Parmesan Cheese?
Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard Italian cheese that is commonly used for grating. It is made from cow’s milk and has a nutty and savory flavor.
How is Parmesan Cheese Made?
Parmesan cheese is made by mixing fresh cow’s milk with rennet, which helps coagulate the milk. The curdled milk is then cut into small pieces and heated to remove the whey.
The curdled milk is then placed into round molds, where it is left to age for at least 12 months. During this time, the cheese hardens and develops its distinctive flavor.
Does Parmesan Cheese Contain Cellulose?
Cellulose is a natural polymer that forms the cell walls in plants. It is often used as a food additive to add texture or bulk to processed foods. However, there have been reports of manufacturers adding cellulose to grated cheeses to prevent clumping.
While some lesser quality grated cheeses may contain cellulose as an anti-caking agent, authentic Parmesan cheese does not contain added cellulose. In fact, it would be illegal under European Union law to add cellulose or any other filler to Parmigiano-Reggiano.
How Can You Ensure You’re Buying Authentic Parmesan Cheese?
To ensure that you are buying authentic Parmesan cheese, look for the words “Parmigiano-Reggiano” on the label. This indicates that the cheese was made in accordance with strict regulations that prohibit the use of any additives or fillers.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, authentic Parmesan cheese does not contain cellulose or any other fillers. While some lesser quality grated cheeses may contain cellulose as an anti-caking agent, it is important to check the label and look for “Parmigiano-Reggiano” to ensure that you are getting a high-quality cheese without any additives. So, go ahead and enjoy your Parmesan cheese guilt-free!