We have all grabbed that bag of shredded cheddar for convenience on taco night. It saves us the time and effort of getting out the grater and cleaning it later. However, that convenience comes with hidden costs that affect both your wallet and your cooking. Once you switch back to grating your own cheese, you will realize that the bag was never worth it. Here are the reasons why you should leave the pre-shredded bags on the shelf.
1. The Cellulose Coating
If you look at the ingredients on a bag of shredded cheese, you will see “cellulose” listed. This is essentially wood pulp added to prevent the cheese strands from clumping together in the bag. While it is safe to eat, it means you are paying for filler rather than pure cheese. It also creates a gritty texture that does not melt smoothly in sauces. Grating your own ensures you are eating 100% cheese.
2. It Melts Poorly
Because of the anti-caking agents, pre-shredded cheese resists melting and often breaks into a greasy mess. If you have ever tried to make mac and cheese with bagged shreds, you know the sauce turns grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts instantly and creates a smooth, emulsified sauce. The difference in texture for grilled cheese or pizza is night and day. Your cooking improves immediately with this one change.
3. It Costs More
When you buy pre-shredded cheese, you are paying a premium for the processing and packaging. A block of cheese almost always costs less per ounce than the shredded version. You are essentially paying the factory to do a job that takes you thirty seconds. Over a year, that “laziness tax” adds up to a significant amount of money. Buying the block stretches your grocery budget further.
4. It Spoils Faster
Shredded cheese has a massive amount of surface area exposed to air, which promotes mold growth. Once you open the bag, the clock is ticking much faster than with a solid block. A block of cheddar can last for weeks in the fridge if you wrap it properly. You end up throwing away less food when you buy the block. It is a more efficient way to store dairy.
5. The Taste is Muted
The preservatives and coatings on bagged cheese dull the sharp flavor. Freshly grated cheese releases aromas and oils that taste vibrant and strong. You often need to use less fresh cheese to get the same flavor impact as the bagged stuff. This makes your meals tastier and healthier at the same time. There is simply no comparison in flavor quality.
The Grater Good
Grating your own cheese is a small effort that yields massive rewards in taste and savings. You avoid unnecessary additives and get a product that performs better in every recipe. It allows you to control exactly what goes into your body. You should invest in a good box grater and never look back.
Block or Bag?
Are you loyal to the convenience of the bag, or have you made the switch to grating your own? Do you have a favorite cheese that you always buy in block form? Let us know your preference in the comments below.
What To Read Next
How to Find One Dollar Gourmet Cheeses in the Deli
Seasonal Holiday Cheese Boards That Cost Less With Stacked Deals
These 6 Popular Restaurants Don’t Use Real Cheese
9 Cheese Blocks That Are Labeled “Fresh” but Travel Thousands of Miles
3 Things You Need to Know Before Eating Velveeta Cheese
The post Why You Should Stop Buying Pre-Shredded Cheese appeared first on Grocery Coupon Guide.
