Distinguishing Natural and Processed Cheese: Benefits for You

Westlife Food World, which operates McDonald’s outlets, has received a major relief. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has now granted permission to use the term ‘cheese’ in its products.

In reality, the company had removed the term ‘cheese’ from its products following the directives of the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA was not satisfied with the use of ‘cheese’ in the preparation of their products. However, they have now received clearance.

So today, in this article, let’s discuss the differences between real and fake cheese.

The Benefits of Eating Cheese

Question: What is cheese, and what are its benefits?

Answer: Cheese is a dairy product used in foods such as pizza, burgers, or sandwiches. Cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, but it also contains saturated fat and sodium. Experts say that consuming 40 to 45 grams of cheese daily is beneficial for health.

Cheese for Keeping the Heart Healthy

Cheese contains calcium, protein, vitamin A, and B-12, which are essential nutrients for the heart and body. Consuming cheese in moderation is highly beneficial for heart and overall health.

Beneficial for the Digestive System

Cheese contains beneficial probiotics that help maintain a healthy digestive system. Eating cheese can improve metabolic processes and alleviate digestive issues.

Strengthens Teeth and Bones

Cheese is highly beneficial for teeth as it contains phosphates and high levels of calcium, which strengthen teeth and bones. It also helps balance the pH level in the mouth.

Controls Cholesterol Levels

If your cholesterol levels are high, you don’t need to avoid cheese. Although cheese contains cholesterol, it is saturated fat that has the most significant impact on your blood cholesterol levels. Including cheese in a balanced diet with other nutritious elements is advisable.

Helps Control Blood Sugar Levels

Cheese is an excellent source of protein and fat, which slows down carbohydrate digestion. This can also help control blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of diabetes complications.

Differences Between Natural and Processed Cheese

Question: What are the differences between natural and processed cheese?

Answer: Natural cheese is made from natural ingredients such as milk, natural cultures, emulsifiers, and high-quality milk. It has a short shelf life due to its moisture content and is prone to spoilage. On the other hand, processed cheese is made from natural cheese but undergoes processing to alter its taste. Processed cheese contains various additives and preservatives, making it less healthy.

Potential Health Risks of Processed Cheese

Question: What kind of health problems can arise from eating processed cheese?

Answer: Processed cheese is less healthy than natural cheese as it contains food colors and chemicals used in processing, which can be harmful to health. Moreover, processed cheese is often used in fast food where it is loaded with toppings in various forms, leading to increased calorie intake and potential weight gain. Additionally, the higher sugar content in processed cheese can increase the risk of high blood pressure.

Potential Health Risks of Spoiled Cheese

Q: What kind of health problems can arise from eating spoiled cheese?

Answer: If your immune system is compromised, consuming spoiled cheese can lead to various problems such as indigestion, allergies, food poisoning, impaired digestion, and gastrointestinal issues.