Is Sliced colby jack natural cheese Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a dairy product like Sliced colby jack natural cheese is Kosher, we look beyond the milk. The processing agents are where issues usually arise. Fortunately, the standard ingredient list for this cheese—pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes, and annatto—contains no red flags.

Let's look at the most scrutinized ingredient: enzymes. In natural cheese making, enzymes (specifically rennet) are used to coagulate the milk. Historically, animal rennet from non-Kosher sources was a major issue. However, modern natural cheeses almost exclusively use microbial enzymes (derived from fungi) or vegetable-based enzymes, both of which are inherently Kosher. Unless the label specifies animal rennet, the enzymes in this product are safe.

Next, we examine annatto. This is the vegetable color used to give colby jack its signature orange hue. While annatto is a plant derivative and naturally Kosher, it is sometimes processed on equipment shared with other products. In the case of major brands producing sliced colby jack, the annatto is processed under strict Kosher supervision, ensuring no cross-contamination occurs.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, sliced colby jack natural cheese is a dense source of energy and macronutrients. A standard serving typically contains between 80 to 100 calories, derived mostly from fats and proteins. It is important to note that while it fits into many dietary frameworks, it is calorie-dense due to the milk fat content.

In terms of sugar and carbohydrates, this cheese is very low, usually containing less than 1 gram of sugar per slice. This makes it an excellent option for low-carb or Keto diets. Regarding fat content, it generally provides 6 to 7 grams of fat per slice, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. While it fits within standard diet limits, those monitoring saturated fat intake should consume it in moderation.