Is Cheddar Style Dairy-Free Cheese Shredded Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, the first thing I look for in a dairy-free cheese is the base structure. Without casein (milk protein), manufacturers must rely on starches and oils to mimic that melt and texture. In this specific Cheddar Style Dairy-Free Cheese Shredded, the base is a blend of filtered water, organic coconut oil, and expeller-pressed canola oil. These fats are naturally free of gluten and provide the necessary richness.

The binding agents are crucial here. We see potato and corn starch listed. Both of these are naturally gluten-free carbohydrates. They act as the thickener to give the cheese its semi-firm structure before melting. Additionally, potato protein is added to boost the protein content, which helps with the 'chew' of the cheese. None of these potato-derived ingredients pose a gluten risk.

A common point of confusion is the natural flavors. In the food industry, 'natural flavors' can sometimes hide derivatives of wheat or barley. However, in this product, the natural flavors specifically contain autolyzed yeast. While yeast is a flavor enhancer, it is typically derived from sugar cane or molasses in vegan cheeses, not from gluten grains. There is no indication of wheat-based yeast extract here.

Finally, the additives are standard for the industry and safe. Sodium citrate and citric acid regulate acidity and help the cheese melt smoothly. Calcium phosphate is a mineral fortifier. The color comes from annatto, beta carotene, and paprika extract, all of which are plant-based and gluten-free. We found absolutely no flags in this formulation.

Nutritional Value

When evaluating the health profile of this Cheddar Style Dairy-Free Cheese Shredded, it is important to view it as a processed fat source rather than a protein powerhouse. The primary caloric source is organic coconut oil and canola oil. This means the product is high in fat, specifically saturated fat from the coconut oil. While this fits a Keto or Paleo diet, it is calorie-dense.

Regarding carbohydrates, the potato and corn starch contribute to the carb count. However, the serving size usually keeps this manageable. There is a small amount of organic vegan cane sugar listed, but it is minimal—likely less than 1 gram per serving—used to balance the acidity of the citric acid. This is not a high-sugar product.

Is it healthy? It depends on your goals. It is an excellent alternative for eliminating dairy allergens. However, if you are strictly counting calories or saturated fat, you should measure your portions. It lacks the B12 and calcium naturally found in dairy unless fortified (calcium phosphate is present, but amounts vary). It fits well into a gluten-free or vegan diet, but should be treated as an indulgence rather than a staple vegetable.