Is Extra Sharp Yellow Cheddar Cheese Cuts Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a cheese is safe for a gluten-free diet, we look strictly at the additive list rather than the dairy base. The primary ingredient, PASTEURIZED MILK, is naturally gluten-free. The fermentation process relies on CHEESE CULTURE, which consists of bacteria; these cultures do not contain gluten.

For salt and texture, SALT is used, which is a mineral and safe. The binding agent in hard cheese is created by ENZYMES. In the context of cheddar, these are microbial enzymes (rennet) used to coagulate the milk. They are derived from non-gluten sources and pose no risk. Finally, ANNATTO is used to achieve that signature yellow color. Annatto is a natural seed extract and is completely free of gluten. While cross-contamination is always a theoretical risk in manufacturing facilities, the absence of wheat, barley, rye, or malt ingredients in this specific formulation indicates it is inherently gluten-free.

Nutritional Value

Extra Sharp Yellow Cheddar Cheese Cuts are a nutrient-dense food, primarily providing high-quality protein and calcium. A standard serving contains a significant amount of saturated fat and sodium, which is typical for aged hard cheeses. However, it is naturally very low in carbohydrates and contains zero sugar, making it an excellent fit for Keto, Paleo, and low-carb diets. While it is calorie-dense, the high protein and fat content promotes satiety, helping to curb hunger effectively.