A recent survey investigated several criteria and revealed the presence of cheeses from prestigious brands in the market Brazilian, providing low quality products, being thus marketed with misleading information in their packaging.
The study identified cheeses with highly dubious quality, out of standards and even with the presence of bacteria. Understand the main measures adopted and the list of cheesesdisapproved.
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questionable quality
In order to make informed decisions when purchasing any perishable product, it is important for consumers to develop the habit of reading labels.
It is also advisable to examine the appearance, checking that the cheese is uniform in color and has no suspicious stains. Many consumers routinely smell the cheese for signs of spoilage or contamination, which is an excellent idea.
Another way to follow is to evaluate the texture, especially when the cheese is too soft, as this may require greater caution, depending on the type. It is essential to check the expiry date on the packaging to avoid buying expired products.
A fundamental tip is to give preference to cheeses that have quality seals, such as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) or Protected Geographical Indication (IGP), as this indicates that they at least meet all production standards – and it would be easier to take appropriate action if any is revealed. infringement.
Regarding the risks for consumers, a study carried out by Proteste, the Brazilian Consumer Defense Association, found low-quality cheeses quality and that did not meet the standards established by the health authorities in Brazil, all of which are normally marketed by large brands.
Brands were identified that contained an excessive amount of bacteria and sodium levels above what was stated on the packaging. Among the 49 brands tested, some had a higher amount of bacteria than tolerated, increasing the risk of diarrhea for consumers.
Faced with the problems identified, Proteste requested the withdrawal of lots from the market. The companies work with different types of cheese, such as curd, gorgonzola, processed and grated.
As an example, brands that exceeded the 20% sodiumand the tolerable limit of bacteria were:
Foundue cheese
- São Vicente – 36.3%
Gorgonzola
- Cruzília – 94%
- Stamina – 80%
rennet cheese
- Tres Marias – 159%
- Godam – 132%
- Bright Sun – 87%
- Creole – 67%
- Purana – 61%
- Scala – 57%
- Sealed Stone – 56%
- Tirolez – 37%
- Brazil – 36%
- Quata – 27%
- President – 21%
Grated cheese
- Gran Romano – 76.6%
- Regina – 51.5%
- Relic – 44%
- Grand Master – 40.3%
- Itambé – 22.3%
The reported percentage refers to the amount of sodium contained in the packaging analyzed within the scope of the study. Keep an eye out for these brands and nutritional values the next time you're shopping for cheese!