Is Monterey Jack Cheese With Jalapeno Peppers Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a cheese is safe for a gluten-free diet, we look at the core components. The beauty of Monterey Jack Cheese with Jalapeno Peppers lies in its simplicity. The primary ingredient is pasteurized milk, which is naturally gluten-free. The milk undergoes a coagulation process using cheese culture and enzymes, neither of which typically contain gluten.

The spicy kick comes from red and green jalapeno peppers. Fresh peppers are a whole food and are naturally gluten-free. The only potential risk in flavored cheeses is if flavor enhancers or anti-caking agents added to the peppers contain gluten, but in this specific formulation, salt is the only additive used. There are no modified food starches, hydrolyzed vegetable proteins, or malt vinegar used here that would flag gluten concerns.

Nutritional Value

Monterey Jack with Jalapeno Peppers is a high-fat, moderate-protein food. A standard serving typically contains between 90 to 110 calories, with the majority coming from fat (approx. 7-9 grams). While it is not a low-calorie food, it is very low in carbohydrates (usually less than 1 gram per serving) and contains zero sugar. This makes it an excellent choice for those following a Keto or low-carb diet. However, due to the saturated fat content, it should be consumed in moderation if you are monitoring heart health or strict calorie intake.