10 Best Parmesan Cheeses in the Philippines 2026 | 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.
Quick List - Top Parmesan Cheeses
Parmigiano Reggiano
Authentic Aged Flavor From Italy for Everyday Meals With DOP Certification
Grana Padano
Robust Italian Taste for Family Dishes With Versatile Grating Sizes
Santini
Convenient Ready-to-Sprinkle Texture for Quick Meals With Pre-Grated Ease
Fattorie Cremona
Sharp 12-Month Aging for Flavorful Cooking With Balanced Sharpness
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.
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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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How to Choose a Parmesan Cheese - Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Differentiate Parmigiano-Reggiano from other types of Parmesan cheese
- Decide between a cheese block or pre-shredded cheese
- See the Parmesan cheese's aging
- Select the appropriate container for proper storage
- Check out the different textures of Parmesan cheese
- Purchase the right amount of cheese you need
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
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.
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
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
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
10 Best Parmesan Cheese to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Parmesan Type | Form | Aged | Package | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese DOP from Italy +/- 60g, 125g, 250 grams | | Authentic Aged Flavor From Italy for Everyday Meals With DOP Certification | Parmigiano-Reggiano | Block | 18 Months | Plastic Wrap | 60 g, 125 g, 250 g | |
2 | Grana Padano Parmesan Cheese (+/-) 60g, 125g, 250g From Italy | | Robust Italian Taste for Family Dishes With Versatile Grating Sizes | Grana Padano PDO | Block | unknown | Plastic Wrap | 60 g, 125 g, 250 g | |
3 | Santini 100% Parmesan Cheese 227g | | Convenient Ready-to-Sprinkle Texture for Quick Meals With Pre-Grated Ease | Santini Parmesan Cheese | Pre-Shredded/Grated | unknown | Plastic Shaker Bottle | 227 g | |
4 | Fattorie Cremona Parmesan Aged 12mos 150g | | Sharp 12-Month Aging for Flavorful Cooking With Balanced Sharpness | Parmigiano-Reggiano | Block | 12 Months | Plastic Wrap | 150 g | |
5 | Gran Moravia Italian Parmesan Cheese (+/-) 60g, 125g, 250g | | Bold Imported Profile for Versatile Toppings With Flexible Portions | Grana-Style Parmesan | Block | unknown | Plastic Wrap | 60 g, 125 g, 250 g | |
6 | Marca Pina Parmesan Grated Cheese 227g | | Smooth Grated Finish for Busy Kitchens With Reliable Melt | Parmesan | Pre-Shredded/Grated | 10 Months | Plastic Shaker Bottle | 227 g | |
7 | Chiz Boy Grated Processed Cheese – Parmesan Flavor 350g | | Affordable Flavor Boost for Pasta Nights With Generous Volume | Processed Parmesan | Pre-Shredded/Grated | Plastic Pack (Single Retail Pouch) | 100 g, 200 g, 350 g | ||
8 | Kraft Parmesan Cheese Grated 453g | | Large-Pack Convenience for Frequent Use With Consistent Texture | Parmesan | Pre-Shredded/Grated | 12 Months | Jar | 453 g | |
9 | SJX Garlic Parmesan Powder and Grated Cheese - 100g, 250g, 500g | | Garlic-Infused Kick for Savory Dishes With Powdered Blend | Garlic-Infused Parmesan | Powder and Grated | unknown | Plastic Pouch | 100 g, 250 g, 500 g | |
10 | Greendahan Grated Parmesan Cheese 75g | 150g | | Keto-Friendly Protein Option for Low-Carb Diets With High-Protein Content | Parmesan | Finely Grated | unknown | Resealable Pouch | 75 g, 150 g | |
Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan Cheese DOP from Italy +/- 60g, 125g, 250 grams
Authentic Aged Flavor From Italy for Everyday Meals With DOP Certification
Features and benefits:
Delivers protected DOP designation for genuine Italian taste and quality
Offers granular texture that melts smoothly over pasta or into risottos
Provides versatile grating in 60 g, 125 g, or 250 g sizes for portion control
Maintains freshness through vacuum-sealed packaging for longer storage
Reviews mention:
Many find that the rich, nutty flavor elevates simple dishes like spaghetti aglio olio. People note its crumbly texture grates easily without clumping. Several mention the authentic profile compared to local alternatives.
| Parmesan Type | Parmigiano-Reggiano |
|---|---|
| Form | Block |
| Aged | 18 Months |
| Package | Plastic Wrap |
| Net Weight | 60 g, 125 g, 250 g |
Grana Padano Parmesan Cheese (+/-) 60g, 125g, 250g From Italy
Robust Italian Taste for Family Dishes With Versatile Grating Sizes
Features and benefits:
Provides similar aging process to premium Parmesans at a more accessible price
Delivers firm, flaky texture ideal for shaving over salads or soups
Supports multiple sizes from 60 g to 250 g for flexible home use
Ensures consistent flavor from Italian production standards
Reviews mention:
People note that the milder tang works well in family recipes without overpowering. Many find it grates evenly for toppings on pizza or garlic bread. Several mention its value for frequent cooking.
| Parmesan Type | Grana Padano PDO |
|---|---|
| Form | Block |
| Aged | unknown |
| Package | Plastic Wrap |
| Net Weight | 60 g, 125 g, 250 g |
Santini 100% Parmesan Cheese 227g
Convenient Ready-to-Sprinkle Texture for Quick Meals With Pre-Grated Ease
Features and benefits:
Offers pre-grated convenience in a 227 g shaker for instant sprinkling
Delivers Parmesan composition with essential fillers for clean taste
Provides convenient packaging to preserve flavor during repeated use
Supports fast addition to pastas, salads, or steamed vegetables
Reviews mention:
Several mention the no-grate ease for busy weeknight dinners. Many find that the fine consistency blends seamlessly into sauces. People note reliable nationwide delivery options.
| Parmesan Type | Santini Parmesan Cheese |
|---|---|
| Form | Pre-Shredded/Grated |
| Aged | unknown |
| Package | Plastic Shaker Bottle |
| Net Weight | 227 g |
Sharp 12-Month Aging for Flavorful Cooking With Balanced Sharpness
Features and benefits:
Delivers 12-month aging for subtle nuttiness without intense sharpness
Offers 150g block size perfect for small household grating needs
Provides balanced moisture for easy crumbling over antipasti or breads
Ensures quality from controlled Italian aging processes
Reviews mention:
Many find that the gentler flavor suits beginners to hard cheeses. Several mention it pairs well with fruits or light pastas. People note the compact size for trial without waste.
| Parmesan Type | Parmigiano-Reggiano |
|---|---|
| Form | Block |
| Aged | 12 Months |
| Package | Plastic Wrap |
| Net Weight | 150 g |
Gran MoraviaItalian Parmesan Cheese (+/-) 60g, 125g, 250g
Bold Imported Profile for Versatile Toppings With Flexible Portions
Features and benefits:
Delivers imported Italian authenticity in practical 60 g to 250 g portions
Offers fine, dry texture that stores well without refrigeration immediately
Provides robust umami for enhancing Filipino-Italian fusion recipes
Supports easy portioning for weekly meal preps or entertaining
Reviews mention:
People note that the consistent shave quality for carbonara or pesto. Many find it holds up in humid storage better than softer cheeses. Several mention smooth melting in baked dishes.
| Parmesan Type | Grana-Style Parmesan |
|---|---|
| Form | Block |
| Aged | unknown |
| Package | Plastic Wrap |
| Net Weight | 60 g, 125 g, 250 g |
Smooth Grated Finish for Busy Kitchens With Reliable Melt
Features and benefits:
Offers 227 g grated volume for generous toppings on family pizzas
Delivers ready-sprinkle format made in the USA for steady supply
Provides shaker design for mess-free use straight from the fridge
Maintains bold flavor for fries, popcorn, or casseroles
Reviews mention:
Several mention the larger size is economical for group meals. Many find the no-prep convenience helpful during holidays. People note even distribution without sticking.
| Parmesan Type | Parmesan |
|---|---|
| Form | Pre-Shredded/Grated |
| Aged | 10 Months |
| Package | Plastic Shaker Bottle |
| Net Weight | 227 g |
Affordable Flavor Boost for Pasta Nights With Generous Volume
Features and benefits:
Delivers Parmesan taste in 350 g bulk for pizza nights or fries
Offers processed blend for smoother melt on hot foods
Provides generous size ideal for shared snacks or party platters
Supports local production for fresher stock in Philippine stores
Reviews mention:
Many find that great value for everyday pasta or baked potatoes. People note it melts quickly without graininess. Several mention suitability for kids' cheesy favorites.
| Parmesan Type | Processed Parmesan |
|---|---|
| Form | Pre-Shredded/Grated |
| Aged | |
| Package | Plastic Pack (Single Retail Pouch) |
| Net Weight | 100 g, 200 g, 350 g |
Large-Pack Convenience for Frequent Use With Consistent Texture
Features and benefits:
Delivers 453 g capacity for extended use in heavy cooking rotations
Offers iconic grated texture that integrates into creamy sauces
Provides resealable canister for grab-and-go kitchen convenience
Maintains recognizable flavor profile from established brand standards
Reviews mention:
People note reliability for lasagna layers or Alfredo bases. Many find that the size reduces repurchase frequency. Several mention no-mess shaking for salads.
| Parmesan Type | Parmesan |
|---|---|
| Form | Pre-Shredded/Grated |
| Aged | 12 Months |
| Package | Jar |
| Net Weight | 453 g |
SJX Garlic Parmesan Powder and Grated Cheese - 100g, 250g, 500g
Garlic-Infused Kick for Savory Dishes With Powdered Blend
Features and benefits:
Combines grated Parmesan with garlic in 100 g to 500 g options
Delivers pre-mixed convenience for popcorn, fries, or garlic breads
Offers powder form that adheres well to oily surfaces
Provides versatile sizes for pantry stocking or gifting
Reviews mention:
Several mention that the garlic kick enhances simple snacks effortlessly. Many find that the all-in-one shaker is helpful for rushed cooking. People note strong aroma that perks up steamed veggies.
| Parmesan Type | Garlic-Infused Parmesan |
|---|---|
| Form | Powder and Grated |
| Aged | unknown |
| Package | Plastic Pouch |
| Net Weight | 100 g, 250 g, 500 g |
Keto-Friendly Protein Option for Low-Carb Diets With High-Protein Content
Features and benefits:
Delivers high-protein grated cheese in 75 g or 150 g packs
Offers keto-compatible profile for salads or zucchini noodles
Provides fine grate that adds savoriness without carbs
Supports compact sizing for health-focused meal plans
Reviews mention:
Many find that the macro-friendly label is useful for diet tracking. Several mention the clean ingredient list for conscious eaters. People note it boosts flavor in air-fried meats.
| Parmesan Type | Parmesan |
|---|---|
| Form | Finely Grated |
| Aged | unknown |
| Package | Resealable Pouch |
| Net Weight | 75 g, 150 g |
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.
Cheesy Overload in Your Pantry
When it comes to keeping cheeses in your kitchen: "The more, the merrier!". With this, we have provided article reviews of other types of cheeses that you can pair with wine or bread, or use as an ingredient in your recipes. Click the links below to find out some of the best cheeses to order online!
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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: Parmigiano Reggiano ｜Parmesan Cheese DOP from Italy +/- 60g, 125g, 250 grams
No. 2: Grana Padano ｜Parmesan Cheese (+/-) 60g, 125g, 250g From Italy
No. 3: Santini ｜100% Parmesan Cheese 227g
No. 4: Fattorie Cremona ｜Parmesan Aged 12mos 150g
No. 5: Gran Moravia｜Italian Parmesan Cheese (+/-) 60g, 125g, 250g
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.