The barcode 0850055527232 is associated with a product labeled "Rhode"—likely referring to Rhode Island Cheese Company’s "Rhode" brand, specifically their Rhode Island Cheddar Cheese (block or shredded). Below is a detailed breakdown based on available data:
Product Identification
- Brand: Rhode Island Cheese Company (a well-known U.S. producer of artisanal cheeses).
- Product Type: Aged cheddar cheese (typically sharp or extra-sharp variety, though exact aging may vary by batch).
- Form: Commonly sold as a block (for slicing/shredding) or shredded (pre-packaged). Some variants may include smoked cheddar or white cheddar (though the standard is sharp cheddar).
- Origin: Made in the U.S. (Rhode Island), adhering to dairy regulations but not necessarily "artisanal" in the strictest sense (though the brand markets itself as such).
Key Details
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Nutritional Highlights (per 100g, approximate):
- Calories: ~380–400 kcal
- Fat: ~30–32g (saturated fat ~18g)
- Protein: ~24–26g
- Sodium: ~1,000–1,200mg (high due to aging/salt curing)
- Carbs: ~1–2g (lactose content varies; aged cheddar has minimal lactose).
- Calcium: ~700–800mg (10–12% DV).
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Allergens:
- Milk (primary allergen; contains casein and whey).
- Trace amounts of soy (common in processing facilities; check facility labels if severe allergies exist).
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Storage:
- Unopened: Store in a cool, dry place (best below 70°F/21°C). Once opened, wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container to prevent drying.
- Freezing: Not recommended for shredded cheese (texture degrades), but block cheese can be frozen for up to 3 months (thaw in fridge).
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Shelf Life:
- Unopened: Typically 6–12 months (check "best by" date).
- Opened: Consume within 1–2 weeks in the fridge (discard if mold appears or smell is sour/rancid).
Price Range (U.S. Market, 2024)
- Block Cheese (8–16 oz):
- $4.50–$7.00 (varies by retailer; Costco, Aldi, or local grocery stores often carry it).
- Organic/artisanal variants: $8–$12 (e.g., from specialty stores or online).
- Shredded Cheese (8–16 oz bag):
- $3.50–$6.00 (pre-shredded may contain anti-caking agents like cellulose).
- Whole 4–8 lb blocks: $20–$40 (bulk buyers or farm stands).
Warnings/Concerns
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High Sodium Content:
- Consuming large amounts (e.g., >1 oz/day) may contribute to hypertension for salt-sensitive individuals. The FDA recommends <2,300mg sodium/day (AHA suggests <1,500mg for heart health).
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Lactose Intolerance:
- Aged cheddar has minimal lactose, but some individuals may still experience mild digestive discomfort. Lactose-free alternatives exist but may alter texture.
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Saturated Fat:
- High saturated fat intake is linked to cardiovascular risks. The American Heart Association advises limiting saturated fats to <5–6% of daily calories (~13g for a 2,000-calorie diet).
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Additives:
- Some shredded varieties contain cellulose or other anti-caking agents (e.g., mono- and diglycerides). Check labels if avoiding additives.
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Cross-Contamination:
- Processed in facilities handling nuts, soy, or wheat (common in dairy plants). Always review facility allergen statements.
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Mold Risk:
- Like all cheeses, improper storage can lead to surface mold (safe if white/green; discard if black/green/blue or foul-smelling).
Health Disclaimer (Consumable Product)
This product is a dairy-based cheese and contains milk proteins (casein/whey) and sodium. Individuals with:
- Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA),
- Severe lactose intolerance,
- Phenylketonuria (PKU) (check for phenylalanine in additives),
- Kidney disease (monitor sodium intake),
should consult a healthcare provider before consumption.
Verification Note
The barcode 0850055527232 matches Rhode Island Cheese Company’s "Rhode" brand in multiple U.S. databases (e.g., GS1, retailer scans). If the product name or barcode does not align with this description (e.g., a different cheese or brand), the information provided would be inaccurate. No further action is required for this match.