Is Cheese Parmesan & Romano Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why this cheese blend is safe for a gluten-free diet, we need to look closely at what goes into the bottle. As a food scientist, I look for hidden gluten sources like modified food starch or hydrolyzed wheat protein, but you won't find them here.

The primary ingredients are pasteurized part-skim cow's milk, cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes. This is the standard foundation for hard Italian cheeses. Milk is naturally gluten-free, and the cultures and enzymes used in cheesemaking are typically derived from non-gluten sources or are highly purified.

The ingredient that often raises questions is powdered cellulose. This is added to prevent the cheese from clumping together in the shaker. Powdered cellulose is a plant fiber, usually derived from wood pulp or cotton. While it is a processed additive, it is chemically distinct from gluten and does not trigger immune responses in celiacs. It acts as a microscopic sponge to absorb moisture, ensuring the cheese flows freely.

Nutritional Value

When evaluating a product like this, the nutritional profile is just as important as the allergen status. A standard serving of this cheese blend is calorie-dense, primarily due to the fat content from the milk. It fits well into diets that monitor fat intake, provided portion sizes are controlled.

Regarding carbohydrates and sugar, this product is very low. Hard cheeses naturally contain minimal lactose, which is good news for those who are lactose intolerant. There is no added sugar in the ingredient list. For those on Keto or low-carb diets, this cheese blend is generally considered a 'free' food, as the carb count is negligible. It provides a savory flavor boost without spiking blood sugar levels.