Whether You Should Buy Pre-Grated Cheese

Depending on the type of cheese you are eating and how you plan on using it, it can seem like a very convenient option to simply buy a pre-grated or shredded version of it. While this is definitely a convenient choice, it doesn’t usually make sense in regards to other factors. That means that unless you are buying pre-grated cheese from a high-quality cheese shop and know the ingredients and freshness, you should probably stick to the wheels or chunks. Here are just some things to consider.

Cost

One of the first things you’ll notice when you start comparing a chunk of cheese to the same cheese in pre-grated form is the cost. In some cases, it may cost twice or three times as much money to buy it grated and this is because companies can upcharge for the convenience factor. That means that if you have time to grate your own cheese, it will make financial sense.

Ingredients

The real problem with most commercially-produced pre-grated or shredded cheese is that it will contain questionable ingredients. If you buy cheese and grate it yourself, it will simply be the cheese. If, however, you buy shredded cheese from a mass-producer without reading the label, you can find yourself eating natamycin, powdered cellulose, and potato starch. None of those items are necessary in cheese and cellulose is actually a derivative of wood pulp. While none will necessarily harm you, they won’t add any nutritional value to your cheese.

Freshness

The final crucial thing to think about when comparing pre-grated cheese to a block or wheel of it is how fresh the cheese is. Because grated cheese has to go through an extra step before it can be packaged, it will always be at least slightly older. While the natamycin in it should help preserve the cheese and prevent mold growth, fresh cheese will be more flavorful, healthier, and have a better consistency.

When It’s Okay To Buy

Despite all the cautions against buying pre-grated cheese, there are some times when it makes sense to buy it, such as when you are on a very tight schedule. If you really want to buy grated cheese, try to opt for a type that is typically firm and aged anyway, such as grated Parmesan. Even then, you should make a conscious effort to buy it from a specialty cheese retailer as opposed to your local grocery store as it won’t have as many additives and it will be much fresher.