Emek Gouda Sliced Semi-Hard Cheese, 30% Fat 200g

About this product

This semi-hard cheese scores 46% for wellbeing and 87% for safety. The wellbeing score is slightly below the neutral 50% mark, which is typical for a full-fat dairy product meant for occasional, moderate consumption rather than everyday staple eating. The higher safety score indicates that the product’s formulation presents a low overall risk when consumed as part of a normal diet.

The main structural ingredient is Pasteurized Cow's Milk, which provides the cheese’s protein and calcium base. Salt serves a dual role: it acts as a natural preservative and also helps control moisture and develop the characteristic firm texture of a Gouda-style cheese. Food Coloring (Annatto (from A Plant Source)) is used to give the cheese its appealing golden-yellow hue, and it is derived from a natural plant source rather than synthetic dyes.

The most notable concern relates to Pasteurized Cow's Milk, which can trigger reactions in people with a cow milk allergy and may cause lactose overload in sensitive individuals. The Salt content is also worth watching, as high sodium intake is linked to cardiovascular and kidney strain over time. A few preservatives such as E-202, E-235, and E-234 appear in the ingredient list; their safety scores are high, though E-202 carries low-level concerns around skin or eye irritation and reproductive effects only at very low incidence rates.

Overall, this cheese is a reasonably safe traditional dairy product that is best enjoyed in moderate portions within a balanced diet, keeping in mind its sodium and saturated-fat profile.

How we rate

Scores combine ingredient research, exposure routes, and label transparency. Full methodology is in the Zenlo app.