Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese
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What it is
Reduced fat cheddar cheese is a type of cheese made from cow's milk where a portion of the milk fat has been removed before or during the cheesemaking process. This results in a product with less fat and fewer calories than traditional cheddar cheese. It retains the characteristic sharp, tangy flavor of cheddar.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use reduced fat cheddar cheese to provide a cheesy flavor and texture in a variety of foods while lowering the overall fat content. It is commonly found in savory bakery products, processed cheese products, canned soups, and frozen meals. Its milder flavor profile compared to aged cheddar makes it versatile in many applications.
Health notes
Reduced fat cheddar cheese is a dairy product and a source of protein and calcium. The FDA considers dairy products to be generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Like all cheeses, it contains sodium. The WHO/IARC has not classified cheese or reduced fat cheese specifically. Evidence regarding the health effects of reduced-fat dairy products is mixed, with some studies suggesting benefits for weight management and others showing no significant difference compared to full-fat dairy. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many cheese products and their components.
Allergen info
Reduced fat cheddar cheese is derived from milk, which is one of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.