Is Gouda Cheese Block Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a cheese is Halal, the focus is almost always on the source of the Enzymes and the presence of alcohol. Let's look at the specific profile of this Gouda Cheese Block.

The primary ingredient is PASTEURIZED MILK, which is naturally Halal. This is followed by CHEESE CULTURE and SALT. The critical component here is the Enzymes. In modern industrial cheesemaking, these are often microbial or fermentation-produced enzymes (FPC), which are entirely plant-based or synthetic and Halal. They are not derived from animals, eliminating the need for religious slaughter certification.

Finally, the cheese uses ANNATTO (COLOR). Annatto is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is a plant product and is considered Halal. There are no animal-based colorings like cochineal used here.

Nutritional Value

Gouda is a semi-hard cheese, meaning it has a relatively low moisture content compared to soft cheeses. This impacts its caloric density. A standard serving of Gouda Cheese Block is high in protein and calcium, making it an excellent choice for bone health and muscle maintenance.

However, because it is a dairy product, it is naturally high in saturated fats and sodium. If you are monitoring your cholesterol or blood pressure, you should consume this in moderation. It contains zero sugar, which makes it a great option for low-carb or Keto diets.