mybest
Parmesan cheesesHelping You Find the Best
mybest
Parmesan cheesesHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Parmesan Cheeses in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 1
  • 10 Best Parmesan Cheeses in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 2
  • 10 Best Parmesan Cheeses in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 3
  • 10 Best Parmesan Cheeses in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 4
  • 10 Best Parmesan Cheeses in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 5

10 Best Parmesan Cheeses in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian

Whether it's for making your spaghetti extra special or enhancing the signature taste of your sandwich, you can never go wrong with adding some Parmesan cheese! It adds a whole new layer of flavor to your dish and has become one of many home cooks' go-to types of cheese because of its relatively affordable price as compared to other imported cheeses.

 
However, with the growing number of Parmesan cheese products in the market, choosing the best one can be challenging. You don't have to worry because this article gives our top 10 product recommendations as well as a buying guide fact-checked by registered nutritionist-dietitian Samantha Morales.

Last updated 07/14/2023

Quick List - Top Parmesan Cheeses

1

Real Formaggi

Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese
Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese

Taste the Rich Flavor of Authentic Italian Parmesan

2

Dolce Vita

Italiana Formaggi Grated Parmesan Cheese
Italiana Formaggi Grated Parmesan Cheese

Enjoy Exquisite Cheese With Effortless Preparation

3

Gran Moravia

Parmesan Cheese Wedge
Parmesan Cheese Wedge

A Naturally Lactose-Free Cheese from an Eco-Sustainable Farm

4

Emborg

Shredded Parmesan Cheese
Shredded Parmesan Cheese

Traditional Parmesan Cheese Pre-Shredded for Added Texture

5

The Bowtie Duck PH

Parmiggiano-Reggiano
Parmiggiano-Reggiano

Flavor-Enhancing Authentic Parmesan for Many Delicacies

Samantha Morales
Expert
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Samantha Morales

Samantha began her career in clinical nutrition and weight management at a tertiary hospital in Manila, Philippines. Her practice allowed her to give nutrition counseling and plan modified diets for patients with medical conditions. Presently, she does private practice to focus on true holistic wellness - an approach that believes in aligning one's mind, body, and spiritual well-being.

Samantha Morales's Profile
…Continue reading
Editorial Team
Guide
mybest
Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

Editorial Team's Profile
…Continue reading
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Parmesan Cheese - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Differentiate Parmigiano-Reggiano from other types of Parmesan cheese.
  2. Decide between a cheese block or pre-shredded cheese.
  3. See the Parmesan cheese's aging.
  4. Select the appropriate container for proper storage.
  5. Check out the different textures of Parmesan cheese.
  6. Purchase the right amount of cheese you need.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
1

Differentiate Parmigiano-Reggiano from Other Types of Parmesan Cheese

Differentiate Parmigiano-Reggiano from Other Types of Parmesan Cheese

Strictly speaking, Parmesan and Parmigiano-Reggiano are protected designations of origin or PDO by the European Union and Italian law to preserve their cultural culinary identity. It is made from skimmed cow’s milk in certain Italian provinces like Emilia and Parma and went through at least two years of aging to achieve a rich and sharp flavor.


Outside those Italian regions and elsewhere, the Parmesan that's often referred to is one that is patterned after the Parmigiano-Reggiano and can't claim the entire title though they can use the name Parmesan. Think of it as being similar to the regulation of Champagne. 

 
If you find Parmigiano-Reggiano too expensive, affordable versions called imitation Parmesan are also available. They are neither bad-tasting nor unsafe, it’s just that they have a more mellowed flavor than the original. Then, we have vegan Parmesan cheeses made from almonds and cashews for non-meat eaters.

2

Decide Between a Cheese Block or Pre-shredded Cheese

You can get Parmesan cheese in both blocks and pre-shredded forms. Both have benefits and setbacks, but in either way, they enhance the flavors of your dishes. Parmesan cheeses are undeniably versatile ingredient that you can add in pasta sauces, viands, and even salads.

Parmesan Blocks or Wedges Maintain Richer Flavor

Parmesan Blocks or Wedges Maintain Richer Flavor

A Parmesan cheese block preserves a fuller flavor because of its compact structure, locking in the aroma and taste. Parmesan cheeses in fancy buffet restaurants also come in whole blocks where they are only shredded upon consumption.


Parmesan cheese blocks are considered to be more natural because they only incorporate milk, salt, and rennet. Despite being pricey, it is well worth the money if you want to level up the quality of your pasta and other recipes.

Pre-shredded Parmesan Cheeses Save Prep Time and Effort

Pre-shredded Parmesan Cheeses Save Prep Time and Effort

If you are after convenience, we recommend using the pre-shredded ones. You don't have to shred or grate the cheese manually and painstakingly. Plus, it is considerably cheaper than a block of cheese. However, grated Parmesan cheese is processed with cellulose powder and potassium sorbate as preservatives.


Another setback of pre-shredded Parmesan cheeses is that they prematurely release some aroma and taste in a way, resulting in a milder flavor. With this, it is best to look for products from trusted brands or those are authentically produced in Italy.

3

See the Parmesan Cheese's Aging

With premium cheeses like Parmesan, age does matter. Cheese aging is a process done from 10 to 90 months, resulting in varying intensities of flavor. When ordering online, the product descriptions usually state how long the cheese is aged. But, if you can't find any further info, you can send the seller a direct message to inquire.

Aged Parmesan Cheese Goes Through a Long Maturation Process

Aged Parmesan Cheese Goes Through a Long Maturation Process

If you want a Parmesan cheese with a much bolder and funkier flavor, go for aged varieties. These Parmesan cheese went through more than 3 years of aging to mature and give a sharper and more intense flavor. 


You can serve them as appetizers at your cocktail parties, and they are best paired with red or white wine to cleanse your palate before the main course and to remove umay. Aged Parmesan cheeses are usually available in specialty stores.

Mild Parmesan Cheese Undergoes a Shorter Aging Period

Mild Parmesan Cheese Undergoes a Shorter Aging Period

Not everybody likes bold flavors. But thankfully, some Parmesan cheeses don’t go through a long aging process. Their aging process range from 12 to 36 months to have a more mellow flavor, perfect for kids’ favorites like meaty spaghetti or mac-and-cheese. 


Most mild-flavored Parmesan cheeses are the common products we see in grocery stores. They are already pre-grated for convenience, and since they come in smaller quantities, you can try buying a few brands and do a taste test for a better judgment.

4

Select the Appropriate Container for Proper Storage

Select the Appropriate Container for Proper Storage

Whether you are purchasing a block or pre-grated cheese, good packaging is a must. For example, most Parmesan cheese blocks are wrapped in plastic and then placed in a box for safety and branding. But you also have to make sure that the package has no dents or holes to avoid food contamination.


Shakers work best for fine and powdery pre-shredded Parmesan cheese. They come in handy because you gain more control over the amount of cheese you place in the dish.

 
But suppose you prefer buying Parmesan cheese with chunkier shreds or in large quantities. In that case, Parmesan cheeses in jar containers are cost-effective. Sometimes, they come with a spoon inside for easy scooping and measuring. 

5

Check Out the Different Textures of Parmesan Cheese

Check Out the Different Textures of Parmesan Cheese

As previously mentioned, Parmesan cheeses come in many forms. And each one of them is vital to your dishes and can affect its overall flavor. The most common you can find is a finely shredded Parmesan cheese. It is the best for dish toppings like chicken parmigiana or spaghetti. It usually comes in a shaker for even distribution.


You can also get chunky shreds or shavings of Parmesan. This type is excellent as an ingredient when you need to have more textured bites and bolder taste in your recipes. Use it in recipes like pizza, casserole, or lasagna. Alternatively, you may get slivers of Parmesan for bread or direct consumption paired with ham and wine.

6

Purchase the Right Amount of Cheese You Need

Purchase the Right Amount of Cheese You Need

To avoid wasting money on leftovers and unused ingredients, you need to gauge how much Parmesan you need. If you need cheese for business or party-size servings, we recommend buying a large portion of an entire cheese wheel because it is more cost-effective.


Alternatively, many stores offer Parmesan cheese slices or triangle wedges. They weigh as little as 200 grams, so you can assess if you like the flavor of the cheese without spending too much. But if you are already sold with that particular Parmesan cheese, then you can buy as much as 500 grams or even more.


However, if you are really tight on budget, you can always go for pre-shredded cheese instead. The flavor might not be as close as freshly shredded Parmesan, but it is great as a more affordable alternative. So, choose wisely depending on your budget and needs.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Parmesan Cheese to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Real Formaggi

Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese

Real Formaggi Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese 1

Taste the Rich Flavor of Authentic Italian Parmesan

2

Dolce Vita

Italiana Formaggi Grated Parmesan Cheese

Dolce Vita Italiana Formaggi Grated Parmesan Cheese 1

Enjoy Exquisite Cheese With Effortless Preparation

3

Gran Moravia

Parmesan Cheese Wedge

Gran Moravia Parmesan Cheese Wedge 1

A Naturally Lactose-Free Cheese from an Eco-Sustainable Farm

4

Emborg

Shredded Parmesan Cheese

Emborg Shredded Parmesan Cheese 1

Traditional Parmesan Cheese Pre-Shredded for Added Texture

5

The Bowtie Duck PH

Parmiggiano-Reggiano

The Bowtie Duck PH Parmiggiano-Reggiano 1

Flavor-Enhancing Authentic Parmesan for Many Delicacies

6

Kraft

100% Grated Parmesan Cheese

Kraft 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese 1

Grated Parmesan Cheese from Premium Milk

7

All About Cashew

Classic Vegan Parmesan Cheese

All About Cashew  Classic Vegan Parmesan Cheese 1

A Fantastic Non-Dairy Cheese Made for Vegans

8

Marca Pina

Parmesan Grated Cheese

Marca Pina Parmesan Grated Cheese 1

Flavorful Condiment That's Easy to Serve at Parties

9

Mazza

Italiana Formaggi Grated Parmesan Cheese

Mazza Italiana Formaggi Grated Parmesan Cheese 1

Adds a Flavorful Kick to Your Favorite Homemade Dishes

10

Dolce Vita

Grated Truffle Parmesan Cheese

Dolce Vita  Grated Truffle Parmesan Cheese 1

A Fusion of Two Strongly-Flavored Ingredients

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Real Formaggi
Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese

Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese 1
Source:shopee.ph
Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese 2
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱200
Low Mid
Reference price
₱200
Low Mid

Taste the Rich Flavor of Authentic Italian Parmesan

Parmiggiano-Reggiano cheese is dubbed the "King of Cheeses," where even the European Union has legally protected its name by designating its origin to particular Italian provinces. This is why you can never go wrong with Real Formaggi's Parmesan Cheese!


One look at the etched words on the packaging, and you can guarantee its seal of authenticity. It is made up of rich, strong, and beautifully complex flavors and aromas. It has notes of fruits, nuts, butter, and hay because of the cow's diet. In terms of texture, it has a gritty surface and flakes quickly when grated. 


Not only does Parmiggiano-Reggiano add flavor, but it also enhances the flavor of other ingredients like meat. Grate and sprinkle it onto your favorite recipes such as pasta, lasagna, chicken, potatoes, and so much more to upgrade your dining experience! 

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Dolce Vita
Italiana Formaggi Grated Parmesan Cheese

Reference price
₱840
High

Enjoy Exquisite Cheese With Effortless Preparation

Dolce Vita's Italiana Formaggi has been a famous product line for serving delicious cheeses all over the globe, and it's not surprising that they have one of the best Parmesan cheeses for sale. It comes pre-grated so you can say goodbye to numbed hands you usually get when you grate the cheese yourself. 


This Parmesan cheese has a nutty taste with subtle hints of toasty and fruity flavors incorporated into it. It is salty with a touch of sweetness that balances the overall taste, perfect to use as a pizza topping as well as to add a burst of flavor to sauces and salads.


The product weighs a kilo, so you can prepare more meals you and your family can enjoy. Not to mention, you can be sure of its quality as it is imported from Italy. Make ordinary dishes extra special with a sprinkle of this cheesy dust!

No.3

Gran Moravia
Parmesan Cheese Wedge

Reference price
₱130
Low

A Naturally Lactose-Free Cheese from an Eco-Sustainable Farm

For both cheese and nature lovers, this cheese follows old Italian tradition using an eco-sustainable chain. They only use milk from sustainable Italian dairy farms, and you'll be pleased to know that the cows are fed organic grass and natural sweet groundwater with no artificial irrigation! 


Gran Moravia is made the same way Parmesan cheese is made, and it bears similarity in taste and texture. It makes for a great substitute for Parmesan cheese if you are on a budget or can't source out authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano. 


This is a long-aged, hard cheese, which explains its strong flavor. It is ideal as both a table, grated cheese, and an ingredient in recipes. It complements many pasta sauces such as pesto, meatballs, marinara, or Alfredo. This naturally lactose-free cheese will surely level up your Italian-inspired meals!

No.4

Emborg
Shredded Parmesan Cheese

Reference price
₱245.98
Mid

Traditional Parmesan Cheese Pre-Shredded for Added Texture

When used as toppings, pre-grated Parmesan cheese retains its flavor but not its texture, which is not ideal for some who do not like it too fine and powdery. Good thing that this pre-shredded Parmesan from Emborg is a stand-out product on the list. 


The brand opted to manufacture the traditional Parmesan as shave-shredded cheese with larger granules, so you're sure to see and taste it on your homemade pasta or classic Ceasar salad.


Their Parmesan has a savory-umami taste, but you can identify the subtle notes of nutty and buttery flavors. You can mix it to enhance the meatiness of bolognese, ragu, or carbonara sauces. It is also a great topping to provide an extra layer of bite for your all-time favorite recipes!

No.5

The Bowtie Duck PH
Parmiggiano-Reggiano

Reference price
₱890
High

Flavor-Enhancing Authentic Parmesan for Many Delicacies

Whether it is for potato gratin casserole or simple scrambled eggs, these dishes will not be as flavorful without dashes of authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano grated cheese! This brand's version of the King of Cheeses has a distinct salty, nutty, and fruity flavor with a slight hint of sweetness in it to balance the overall taste. 


Since it's offered in wedge form, it comes in handy to use at potluck parties should your guests prefer to add more cheese to their food instead of busting out the entire wheel. It is also a wonderful addition to your charcuterie board, alongside cold cuts and a glass of red or white wine.

No.6

Kraft
100% Grated Parmesan Cheese

Reference price
₱179
Low Mid

Grated Parmesan Cheese from Premium Milk

Kraft is a well-known brand for various food products, including dairy. So if you want shredded Parmesan cheese without having second thoughts about the quality, you should definitely consider ordering this one! 


It has a sharp and salty taste with a tangy kick, perfect for upgrading your chicken parmigiana or garlic Parmesan chicken wings. It also works like magic to enhance the flavors of vegetable recipes like roasted Parmesan green beans—just sprinkle it generously on top of the vegetables before roasting. 


One of the best things about this Kraft product is that it comes pre-grated which means less time and effort during kitchen prep. You'll also love that it comes in a plastic shaker, so it's definitely more convenient when you want to add more to your plates. 

No.7

All About Cashew
Classic Vegan Parmesan Cheese

Reference price
₱340
Mid

A Fantastic Non-Dairy Cheese Made for Vegans

Are you on a vegan diet but miss the taste of delightful cheese? Frown no more because All About Cashews is a brand that offers non-dairy cheese perfect for vegans or people who want to live a healthy lifestyle! 


This cheese is one hundred percent plant-based, wherein no animal product was used to produce it. Instead, they mainly use cashew milk, added with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and sea salt. Not only is it perfect for people who have plant-based diets, but it is also great for keto, paleo, low-carb, and Mediterranean diets. 


Despite being cashew-based, it replicates the texture and taste of real Parmesan—nutty and toasty. This is a healthier alternative and complements well with vegetable salads. The product on display is the classic version, but it is also available in a smokey vegan variant, ideal for a grilled vegan barbecue.

No.8

Marca Pina
Parmesan Grated Cheese

Reference price
₱249.75
Mid

Flavorful Condiment That's Easy to Serve at Parties

Grated Parmesan cheese has become a staple condiment in the kitchen because of the continuously growing love of Pinoys for spaghetti, macaroni, and other pasta dishes. Because it's freshly grated, you'll be sure that the taste is preserved. 


It's affordable and will help bring out the best taste in your food, such as your Ceasar salad, omelets, pasta, steamed vegetables, and many more! You'll love having this with you during parties and get-togethers held at your place, especially since it comes in a plastic shaker that your guests can easily use to top their favorite dishes! 

No.9

Mazza
Italiana Formaggi Grated Parmesan Cheese

Reference price
₱260
Mid

Adds a Flavorful Kick to Your Favorite Homemade Dishes

Italiana Formaggi is one of the most coveted products by those who love authentic Italian taste and this product from Mazza does not disappoint! It also comes in a grated form so you'll love topping it off of your favorite dishes, whether they be Italian, Filipino, or American.


It is the perfect addition to your shopping list since it's packaged in a plastic shaker, so you'll be sure it's gonna be a hit with your guests and family members. This grated Parmesan cheese is made in Italy and will surely add a flavorful kick to your favorite meals

No.10

Dolce Vita
Grated Truffle Parmesan Cheese

Reference price
₱236
Mid

A Fusion of Two Strongly-Flavored Ingredients

If you love both Parmesan and truffle, you're in for the biggest treat of your life! This Grated Truffle Parmesan Cheese from Dolce Vita will be the stuff of your dreams since it brings together two well-loved ingredients at such an affordable price, considering how expensive both of these are on their own.


This product is made in Italy and combines both the bold earthy flavors you'll find in a black summer truffle as well as the rich and tangy deliciousness of Parmesan cheese. This will definitely be a condiment staple if you're looking to upgrade your cheese experience! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.

Is Parmesan Cheese Vegetarian?

No, Parmesan cheese is not vegetarian since it uses rennet, which is an intricate set of enzymes that are usually found in the stomachs of a goat or a calf. You can, however, purchase vegetarian cheese instead which uses rennet from fungal or genetically modified micro-organisms instead of animals.

Is Parmesan Cheese Gluten-Free and Lactose-Free?

Most dairy products, including Parmesan cheese, generally do not contain gluten. However, it still pays to look at the label as some flavoring may contain gluten. It may also be produced in a facility where they process gluten, so there may be traces of gluten in the cheese.


As for the lactose content, the long aging process of Parmesan cheese breaks down the lactose into lactic acid, making it essentially lactose-free. This means that the lactose content is negligible that it can be enjoyed by people with the highest levels of lactose intolerance.

How Long Does Parmesan Cheese Last?

If you properly store an unopened package of Parmesan cheese in the fridge, it can last for two to four months. However, if you store an opened package of Parmesan cheese, it may only be able to last six weeks in the fridge. 

Author: Roel Pillas Malubay

Editor and Re-Editor: J. Cuizon, Andi Sanchez

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Parmesan Cheeses

No. 1: Real FormaggiParmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese

No. 2: Dolce VitaItaliana Formaggi Grated Parmesan Cheese

No. 3: Gran MoraviaParmesan Cheese Wedge

No. 4: EmborgShredded Parmesan Cheese

No. 5: The Bowtie Duck PHParmiggiano-Reggiano

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

Most Viewed
Featured Rankings Similar to Parmesan cheeses

Cheddar Cheese

10 Best

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.