Processed Cheese
Processed cheese products — think nacho cheese, processed cheese slices, and canned cheese dips — aren’t great health choices for a few reasons, says Zumpano.
Processing may add saturated fats and trans fats, sodium, and sugar, all of which could raise cholesterol, she says.
“Processed cheeses also tend to have a creamier and stronger flavor, which makes them more appealing, and therefore more difficult to control your intake,” she says.
If you’re craving cheese, Zumpano suggests choosing fresh mozzarella, feta, ricotta, or goat cheese instead of processed cheese. Those options have less fat and sodium and may contain more protein and calcium.