Cheddar Meat Sticks

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Cheddar Meat Sticks scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Chemical Preservatives (Sodium Nitrite): Synthetic preservatives are UPF indicators.
• Processed Meats (Collagen Casing): Mechanically separated and reformed meats are UPF markers.
• Industrial Enzymes (Pasteurized Processed Cheddar Cheese [Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes], Enzymes): Industrial enzyme use indicates significant processing.
• Other Additives (Sodium Phosphates, Sodium Erythorbate): Miscellaneous additives generally indicate processing.
• Stabilizers & Gums (Powdered Cellulose [Anti-Caking Agent]): Industrial stabilizers common in UPF.

Within Jerky & Meat Snacks, this product is more processed than about 86% of the 2,448 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Cheddar Meat Sticks' ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Natural FlavorsUPF marker

In this product: Monosodium Glutamate.

Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

Natural ColorsProcessing indicator

In this product: Vegetable Color.

Natural sources but still indicate processing.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Potassium Sorbate And Natamycin [Preservatives]Dextrose, Sugar, Maple Sugar.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

MineralsProcessing indicator

In this product: Sodium Phosphate.

Added minerals often compensate for processing.