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Imitation Cheddar Cheese

Moderate concern

Highly processed cheese substitute; typically uses refined vegetable oils, emulsifiers, and added flavors. Nutritionally inferior to natural cheese (FDA imitation labeling rule).

Found in

77 products

What it is

A cheese-substitute product designed to resemble cheddar; typically uses vegetable oils, starches, and casein or soy proteins instead of butterfat. Per FDA, must be labeled 'imitation' if nutritionally inferior to the food it imitates.

Lower-cost cheese substitute in processed foods.

Why it's flagged

highly processed
may contain refined oils, emulsifiers, artificial flavor or color

What regulators actually say

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Regulatory status

United States — FDA

Subject to imitation labeling rule (21 CFR 101.3(e))

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