If you are a cheese lover, you might have heard the news that some brands of Parmesan cheese contain wood pulp. This revelation has caused concern among many consumers who are wondering which Parmesan cheese has wood pulp and how to identify it.
First of all, let’s clarify what wood pulp is. Wood pulp is a type of cellulose that is extracted from trees and used as a filler in many food products. It is considered safe for human consumption by the FDA and is commonly used in processed foods like ice cream, salad dressing, and shredded cheese.
However, the use of wood pulp as a filler in Parmesan cheese has been controversial. Some manufacturers add cellulose to their grated Parmesan to prevent clumping and increase shelf life. While this may seem harmless, some brands have been caught using excessive amounts of cellulose – up to 8% – in their products.
So which Parmesan cheese brands have been found to contain wood pulp? In 2016, an investigation by Bloomberg News found that several major brands sold in the US contained high levels of cellulose. These brands include:
– Kraft
– Walmart’s Great Value
– Whole Foods 365
– BelGioioso
These brands all claimed to sell “100% grated Parmesan” but were found to contain up to 8.8% cellulose.
To avoid buying Parmesan cheese with added wood pulp, it is important to read the label carefully and choose brands that do not list cellulose or other fillers as an ingredient. Look for authentic Parmigiano Reggiano or other high-quality cheeses that are made with only milk, salt, and rennet.
In addition to checking the label, there are a few other ways to test if your grated Parmesan contains wood pulp. One method is to sprinkle some onto a damp paper towel – if it leaves behind an oily residue or clumps together rather than spreading out evenly, it may contain cellulose.
Another way to check is to taste the cheese – if it has a gritty or powdery texture, it may contain fillers. Authentic Parmesan cheese should have a smooth and slightly grainy texture.
In conclusion, while some brands of Parmesan cheese do contain wood pulp as a filler, it is possible to avoid these products by reading the label carefully and choosing high-quality cheeses made with only natural ingredients. By being informed and vigilant, you can ensure that your Parmesan cheese is both delicious and authentic.