Ingredient

Parmesan

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Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Parmesan is primarily used to add a salty, savory flavor to foods. Manufacturers add …

What it is

Parmesan is a hard, dry cheese made from cow's milk. It originated in Italy and is typically aged for at least 12 months, which gives it a granular texture and a sharp, nutty flavor. The cheese is often sold in blocks or pre-grated.

Why it's used

Parmesan is primarily used to add a salty, savory flavor to foods. Manufacturers add it to enhance the taste of pasta dishes, pizzas, soups, and salad dressings. It can also be used as a topping or an ingredient in baked goods.

Health notes

Parmesan is recognized as safe by the FDA. It is a natural ingredient and not an additive that requires specific regulation as such. While rich in calcium and protein, it is also high in sodium and saturated fat, so moderation is advised as part of a balanced diet. The WHO/IARC has not classified Parmesan.

Allergen info

Parmesan is derived from milk and is therefore a major allergen. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Parmesan

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FRESH & EASY Three-Cheese Risotto Rice High in sodium — 33% DV per serving 349kcal 11.6Protein 4.7Fat 67.4Carbs Italian Sides Four Cheese Pasta Lipton Italian Sides Four Cheese Pasta Pasta Dinners High in sodium — 25% DV per serving 370kcal 13.0Protein 4.6Fat 68.5Carbs Lipton Menu Flavors Cheesy Spinach Dip Pasta Pasta Dinners High in sodium — 30% DV per serving 365kcal 14.3Protein 4.8Fat 66.7Carbs Schnuck Markets, Inc. Texas Toast Frozen Bread & Dough 326kcal 10.9Protein 15.2Fat 37.0Carbs LES ALIMENTS O'SOLE MIO INC. Ravioloni Pasta by Shape & Type High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 30% DV per serving 226kcal 10.4Protein 8.7Fat 27.0Carbs LES ALIMENTS O'SOLE MIO INC. Cheese & Pesto Saccottini Pasta by Shape & Type High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 304kcal 11.3Protein 10.4Fat 43.5Carbs LES ALIMENTS O'SOLE MIO INC. Ravioloni Pasta by Shape & Type High in sodium — 29% DV per serving 243kcal 8.7Protein 7.8Fat 34.8Carbs O'SOLE MIO Tortelloni Pork, Prosciutto & Parmesan Pasta by Shape & Type High in sodium — 22% DV per serving 278kcal 13.0Protein 7.0Fat 41.7Carbs O'SOLE MIO Ravioli Cheese Pasta by Shape & Type High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 20% DV per serving 261kcal 14.8Protein 6.1Fat 37.4Carbs Tortellini O'SOLE MIO Tortellini Pasta by Shape & Type 270kcal 12.2Protein 6.1Fat 43.5Carbs O'SOLE MIO Tortellini Tri-Color Pasta & Cheese Pasta by Shape & Type 270kcal 12.2Protein 6.1Fat 43.5Carbs O'SOLE MIO Ravioli Pasta by Shape & Type High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 20% DV per serving 226kcal 11.3Protein 6.1Fat 31.3Carbs
Salt (482 products) Enzymes (406 products) Water (377 products) Riboflavin (273 products) Thiamine Mononitrate (269 products) Sugar (268 products) Yeast (263 products) Natural Flavors (253 products) Folic Acid (251 products) Citric Acid (248 products)

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.