Nacho cheese is a cheese sauce typically used for nachos and other Mexican-inspired dishes. La Preferida is a popular brand of nacho cheese that can be found in many grocery stores. Consumers who are interested in the ingredients contained in La Preferida nacho cheese can find the complete list printed on the product’s packaging.
Ingredients List
According to the product label, the ingredients in La Preferida nacho cheese are as follows:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
| Water | Provides moisture and liquid base |
| Vegetable oil | Adds fat and flavor |
| Whey | Dairy protein that helps thicken and stabilize |
| Milk | Provides dairy flavor, fat, and protein |
| Cheese culture | Gives distinctive cheese flavor |
| Salt | Enhances flavor and acts as preservative |
| Enzymes | Aids in developing texture |
| Artificial color | Provides bright orange color |
| Spices | Adds unique seasoning and flavor |
| Natural flavor | Enhances cheesy, savory taste |
As you can see, the primary ingredients in La Preferida nacho cheese are water, oils, dairy products, and a variety of natural and artificial flavors. Let’s explore some of these key ingredients in more detail.
Water
Water is listed as the very first ingredient in La Preferida nacho cheese. This indicates that water makes up the largest percentage of the product by weight. Water is essential for creating the smooth, pourable consistency of nacho cheese sauce. It also allows the other dairy ingredients like milk and whey to blend properly. Without adequate moisture, the cheese would be thick, clumpy, and difficult to use on nachos.
Vegetable Oil
The type of vegetable oil used in La Preferida nacho cheese is not specified. However, it likely consists of oils such as canola, soybean, corn, or sunflower oil. Vegetable oils add important fat and richness to the nacho cheese. The oil carries fat-soluble flavor compounds and gives the cheese a smooth, creamy mouthfeel. Oils help balance out the texture of the watery liquid base.
Whey
Whey is a byproduct of cheese manufacturing. It is the liquid part of milk that separates from the curds during cheesemaking. Whey protein remains in the liquid whey and has many functional properties. In La Preferida nacho cheese, the whey proteins help emulsify the fats and thicken the liquid into a smooth, cheese-like sauce. Whey proteins also provide nutritional value.
Milk
In addition to whey, nonfat milk is used in La Preferida nacho cheese. Milk provides extra dairy flavors, nutrients, and proteins. The lactose in milk also plays a role in giving nacho cheese its thick, scoopable texture. When heated, lactose reacts with milk proteins to increase viscosity. Milk fat in whole or reduced-fat milk varieties would also contribute a creamy richness.
Cheese Culture
To give La Preferida nacho cheese that quintessential cheese flavor, live bacterial cheese cultures are added during production. These cultures are similar to those used when making aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda. The bacteria feed on lactose and produce lactic acid and other compounds that replicate the taste of real cheese. But unlike aged cheeses, nacho cheese sauce is not actually fermented long enough to develop that tangy bite.
Salt
Salt is a fundamental ingredient that is found in virtually every cheese and dairy product. Besides enhancing the flavor of nacho cheese, salt also acts as a preservative. It works by lowering water activity so microbes cannot grow. Salt also slows down chemical reactions that lead to spoilage. The right amount of salt is crucial for both the taste and shelf stability of La Preferida nacho cheese.
Enzymes
Enzymes play a critical role in developing the smooth, gooey texture of nacho cheese sauce. By breaking down proteins and creating peptides, enzymes change the physical properties of the cheese mixture. Normally, heat would cause milk proteins to denature and clump together. Enzymes make the proteins unravel more gradually for a consistent liquid texture.
Artificial Color
To achieve that vibrant, neon orange hue, La Preferida relies on artificial color additives. Without artificial coloring, the nacho cheese would have a pale, dull yellow appearance. Annatto and paprika oleoresins are commonly used natural colorants for other cheese products. But for canned nacho cheese, synthetic FD&C Yellow #6 provides the bright, bold vibrancy that consumers expect.
Spices
Spices add complexity of flavor beyond basic cheese notes. According to customer reviews, La Preferida nacho cheese seems to be seasoned with a blend of paprika and cumin. Other bloggers guess that chili powder and garlic powder may also be included. Without access to the proprietary formula, the exact spices remain a mystery.
Natural Flavors
Natural flavors are also included in La Preferida nacho cheese, in addition to the spices. Food scientists can isolate and extract flavor compounds from real food sources like cheese, milk, and cultured cream. These complex mixtures enhance the overall cheese flavor. Natural flavorings allow La Preferida to tout a more natural ingredient list, while still achieving the robust cheesy taste consumers love.
Preservatives
Interestingly, La Preferida does not appear to contain any added preservatives beyond salt. Many shelf-stable foods include potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, or calcium propionate to prevent microbial growth. The fact that La Preferida has a relatively short shelf life of just 10 months suggests that the cheese relies on pasteurization and refrigeration rather than food additives for preservation.
Nutritional Profile
Now that we’ve explored the key ingredients that give La Preferida cheese sauce its unique taste, texture, and color, let’s examine its nutritional value. The table below displays the nutrition facts for a 2 tablespoon (30g) serving of La Preferida nacho cheese.
| Calories | 80 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
| Sodium | 240mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 2g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Total Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Calcium | 110mg |
| Vitamin A | 35IU |
With 80 calories per serving, La Preferida is a high-calorie condiment. Over 75% of those calories come from fat. Still, the 7g of total fat is relatively modest compared to some cheese dips. There is also some protein from the milk and whey. However, nacho cheese sauce is lacking in nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It also contains a hefty dose of sodium at 240mg per serving. So enjoy La Preferida nacho cheese in moderation as an occasional treat.
Milk Allergies
Those with milk allergies or sensitivities should avoid La Preferida nacho cheese due to the milk and whey ingredients. Even though it’s processed, nacho cheese can still cause reactions in lactose intolerant individuals. According to the FDA, La Preferida contains no major food allergens beyond dairy. But the facility also processes wheat, soy, and egg products. So there is a minor risk of cross-contamination.
Vegetarian Status
Since it contains both milk and whey, La Preferida nacho cheese is considered vegetarian but not vegan. No meat, fish, or egg ingredients are present. Vegetarians who eat dairy can enjoy La Preferida cheese sauce without issue. But vegans and strict vegetarians should choose a certified vegan cheese sauce instead.
Kid Friendly
With its mild, inoffensive flavor and creamy texture, La Preferida nacho cheese is a hit with kids. It makes the perfect topping for kid favorites like nachos, taquitos, pizza, and fries. The eye-catching orange color also appeals to children. La Preferida cheese sauce is definitely a smart choice for picky eaters. Although moderation is still advised due to the high sodium and fat content.
Gluten Free Status
La Preferida nacho cheese is certified gluten free by the Gluten Free Certification Organization (GFCO). This rigorous 3rd party certification guarantees the product contains less than 10ppm gluten. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can safely consume certified gluten-free foods like La Preferida cheese sauce.
Common Uses
In addition to classic nachos, La Preferida cheese sauce can elevate all kinds of snacks and dishes:
- Quesadillas
- Taquitos and flautas
- Tacos
- Burritos and enchiladas
- Tortilla chips
- Baked potatoes
- French fries or tater tots
- Burgers and hot dogs
- Pizzas
- Casseroles like mac and cheese
- Popcorn
- Crackers
La Preferida cheese sauce is a versatile pantry staple. Drizzle it over wraps, sandwiches, baked potatoes, omelets, steamed vegetables, and more. Use it as a dip for everything from chicken strips to mozzarella sticks. Let your creativity run wild!
Storage Tips
After opening, La Preferida recommends using cheese sauce within about 10 days. Keep the nacho cheese refrigerated at all times for food safety. Cover the container tightly or transfer to a sealed jar to prevent drying out. Microwave in 30 second intervals to reheat, stirring between each session. Avoid boiling to prevent separation. Discard if mold develops.
Where to Buy
La Preferida nacho cheese can be purchased at major grocery chains across the United States. Check Mexican or Latin food aisles for the best selection. Stores like Walmart, Target, Kroger, Safeway, ShopRite, Publix, and Food Lion typically carry La Preferida cheese sauce. It’s also available online from Walmart, Amazon, Jet, and various supermarket delivery services.
Price
A 12-ounce can of La Preferida nacho cheese retails between $1.50-$3.00. Larger bulk cans are more cost effective for frequent nacho eaters. Watch for sales and promotions. At full price, it’s one of the more budget-friendly canned cheese sauces available. Store brands offer even lower prices, though the quality may not compare.
Alternatives
For those wishing to avoid artificial colors or preservatives, or who have allergies, check out these alternatives:
- Tostitos Cheese Dip – no artificial colors/flavors, shorter ingredient list
- Frito Lay Nacho Cheese – no artificial colors, whey-free
- Ricos Nacho Cheese Sauce – gluten-free, lactose-free
- Tribe Classic Nacho Cheese – vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free
- Making your own – full control over ingredients
Nutrition Comparison
To see how La Preferida stacks up against other popular nacho cheese brands, here is a nutrition facts comparison per 2 tablespoon serving:
| Brand | Calories | Fat | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Preferida | 80 | 7g | 240mg |
| Tostitos | 45 | 2.5g | 250mg |
| Frito Lay | 90 | 7g | 320mg |
| Ricos | 35 | 2g | 260mg |
While sodium content is similar across the board, La Preferida has more calories and fat than some competitors. But flavor and texture also matter, so taste test to find your favorite!
Reviews
La Preferida earns positive reviews for its bold, artificial cheese flavor that kids and adults enjoy on nachos and more. Fans call it “highly addictive” with the perfect “ooey-gooey” texture. Many prefer it over leading brands for having superior taste and better value. Some feel the spice blend gives it a “little kick” not found in milder cheese dips. Negative feedback focuses on the unnatural color and long ingredients list. But most agree La Preferida satisfies cheesy cravings in an affordable and convenient way.
Conclusion
La Preferida nacho cheese gets its distinctive flavor, texture, shelf life, and vibrancy from common processed cheese ingredients like water, oils, dairy products, milk proteins, flavorings, enzymes, salt, and artificial colors. It offers bold, comforting cheese flavor that makes nachos, tacos, potatoes, and more tastier. While it’s not the most natural or nutritious choice, La Preferida remains a top cheesy, convenient snack dip for the price. Use the nutrition facts and ingredients list to decide if it suits your individual dietary needs and preferences.