Is Swiss and Gruyère shredded cheese Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a cheese product is vegan, we have to look past the starches and look at the base. The primary ingredients in this blend are Swiss cheese and Gruyere cheese. Both of these are traditional cheeses made from milk, specifically cultured pasteurized milk (or part-skim milk). Since the foundation of the product is actual cheese, it is strictly vegetarian at best, but not vegan.

The enzymes used to create the cheese flavor and texture are listed as microbial enzymes. While enzymes can sometimes be plant-derived, in the context of dairy cheese, they are often sourced from animal rennet (though the label specifies microbial). However, this does not change the fact that the milk itself comes from animals.

Finally, the product includes potato starch and tapioca starch. These are added to prevent caking and help the shreds melt together smoothly. Natamycin is also present; this is a natural anti-fungal agent used to prevent mold growth on the surface of the cheese. While these additives are vegan-friendly, they are merely supporting actors to the dairy-heavy main ingredients.

Nutritional Value

Because this product is made from cheese, it is naturally high in fat and protein while containing zero sugar. A standard serving of Swiss and Gruyère shredded cheese typically contains between 90 and 110 calories per quarter-cup serving, with a significant portion of that coming from saturated fat. It fits well into low-carb or Keto diets due to the lack of carbohydrates (the starches are used in very small quantities).

However, for those monitoring sodium intake, this product can be a hidden source of salt. Both Swiss and Gruyère are aged cheeses, which naturally have higher sodium levels. It is not suitable for a low-sodium diet. While it provides a good amount of calcium, the high saturated fat content means it should be consumed in moderation.