Is Sharp Cheddar Cheese Slices Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a cheese is Halal, the focus is almost always on the source of the enzymes used to coagulate the milk. In the case of Sharp Cheddar Cheese Slices, the ingredients list CULTURED PASTEURIZED MILK, SALT, ENZYMES, ANNATTO (COLOR). This is a very clean list that passes the Halal test.

The critical ingredient here is the enzymes. In modern mass-produced cheese, manufacturers almost exclusively use microbial enzymes (derived from fungi or bacteria) or vegetable rennet. Traditional animal rennet comes from the stomachs of ruminants, but it is rarely used in standard sliced cheese due to cost and consistency. Since the label does not specify animal rennet, and microbial enzymes are the industry standard for this product type, it is considered Halal.

The annatto used for color is a plant-derived seed extract. It is 100% natural and vegetarian-friendly, posing no Halal concerns. There are no preservatives or anti-caking agents listed that would typically contain animal products or alcohol.

Nutritional Value

Sharp Cheddar Cheese Slices are a calorie-dense food, primarily due to their fat content. A standard slice typically contains between 70 to 90 calories, with a significant portion coming from saturated fat. While delicious, it should be consumed in moderation, especially if you are monitoring your cholesterol or heart health.

Regarding carbohydrates, cheddar cheese is naturally very low in sugar and contains zero grams of sugar per slice. This makes it an excellent option for those following a Keto or low-carb diet. It also provides a decent amount of protein and calcium, making it a nutrient-dense snack despite the fat content.