Does Medium Salsa Con Queso contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains dairy (milk and cheese). It does not contain wheat-based gluten ingredients, but always check for cross-contamination warnings if you have Celiac disease.

Is Medium Salsa Con Queso good for weight loss?

No, it is calorie-dense and high in fat, making it difficult to fit into a strict calorie deficit.

Where can I buy Medium Salsa Con Queso?

You can find it at major grocery chains like Walmart, Target, and Kroger, as well as online retailers like Amazon.

Is Medium Salsa Con Queso safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally safe for children, though the artificial dyes and spice level may be a concern for sensitive toddlers.

Is Medium Salsa Con Queso Vegan?

No, Medium Salsa Con Queso is not vegan. Despite the presence of vegetable oils and peppers, the inclusion of skim milk and cheese firmly places this dip in the dairy category. If you are strictly plant-based, this is a product you need to avoid.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, looking at the label of Medium Salsa Con Queso reveals a classic formulation of a shelf-stable cheese dip. The primary reason this product fails the vegan test is the heavy reliance on dairy derivatives. The first ingredient after water is Skim Milk, followed immediately by Monterey Jack Cheese. This cheese is defined by its use of Cheese Cultures and Enzymes, which are animal-derived in traditional cheese making.

However, the dairy content doesn't stop there. The formulation uses DateM (Diacetyl Tartaric Acid Esters of Monoglycerides) and Sodium Phosphate. While these are often derived from plant sources, in cheese products, they function as emulsifiers to keep the oil and water phases from separating. The presence of Sodium Hexametaphosphate also acts as a texturizer and emulsifier, ensuring that the dip maintains a smooth, creamy consistency without the oil separating out of the jar.

Finally, we must address the additives. The product uses Artificial Color (Yellow 5, Yellow 6) to achieve that signature bright orange cheddar look. While these are synthetic dyes, they are technically vegan. However, for those avoiding highly processed additives, this is a red flag. The flavor profile is bolstered by Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) and Natural Flavors, which provide the savory 'umami' punch that makes the dip addictive.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

milk

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Medium Salsa Con Queso is a calorie-dense, high-fat food. A standard serving contains a significant amount of fat, largely derived from the blend of Corn Oil, Sunflower Oil, and Canola Oil. While these are vegetable oils, they contribute to the overall caloric density without providing a substantial amount of satiety or micronutrients.

The sugar content is relatively low compared to sweet dips, but the sodium levels are high due to the cheese, salt, and MSG. For those monitoring their sodium intake, this dip can consume a large portion of the daily allowance in just a few tablespoons. It fits into a diet only as an occasional indulgence rather than a health food staple.