Kamil Perry
McDonald's cheese has been described as plastic and processed, with some people expressing disgust at its use in cheeseburgers. However, others consider it delicious, even referring to it as a Golden Gift from the Gods. McDonald's cheese is a processed blend of cheddar and other cheeses, along with ingredients like salt, water, milk solids, emulsifiers, colours, and preservatives. It is designed to melt easily without overpowering the flavour of the beef patty. While some people enjoy the ooey-gooey texture it provides, others criticise the quality and price of McDonald's cheeseburgers. The chain has also introduced innovative cheese-based items, such as the OG Cheese Dunk, where customers can dip their burgers and fries in a cup of cheese sauce.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Cheddar, American Cheese, or a blend of both |
| Texture | Firm |
| Melting properties | Melts well |
| Taste | Salty |
| Brand | First Street |
| Ingredients | Salt, water, milk solids, emulsifier, colours, preservatives |
| Burger pairings | Double Quarter Pounder, Quarter Pounder, Big Mac, Big Arch Burger |
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What You'll Learn
McDonald's cheese is delicious
The closest alternative you can get to McDonald's cheese is said to be Walmart's Great Value Deluxe American cheese, which is made by the same company. However, some people also suggest that Horizon Organic American Cheese melts similarly. If you're looking for pre-sliced pieces, Costco sells thin slices of "ubiquitous yellow cheese squares" that taste like a mix of provolone and cheddar.
McDonald's cheese is also versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. You can add it to your burger, dip your fries in it (as seen in the viral OG Cheese Dunk), or even try it on a pizza. While some people may have different opinions about the quality of McDonald's food, there's no denying that their cheese is a fan favorite and keeps customers coming back for more.
The cheeseburger, in particular, is a classic option that hits the spot for many. The combination of a beef patty, cheese, ketchup, mustard, and pickles creates a simple yet satisfying flavor profile. The Double Quarter Pounder with cheese is another popular choice, featuring two beef patties, two slices of cheese, and the same classic toppings. So, whether you love it or hate it, McDonald's cheese has definitely made an impact on the taste buds of many.
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It's a type of American cheese
McDonald's uses a type of American cheese in its cheeseburgers. It is often referred to as "plastic cheese" due to its texture and appearance, but it does not actually contain any plastic. This type of cheese is made with a blend of cheddar and other cheeses, along with ingredients like salt, water, milk solids, emulsifiers, colours, and preservatives. It is designed to melt easily and has a mild flavour that doesn't overpower the taste of the beef patty.
While some people enjoy the taste of McDonald's cheese, others find it disappointing or artificial. However, it is important to note that the cheese is not marketed as a premium or artisanal product, and it serves its purpose in the fast-food cheeseburgers. The cheese is produced according to McDonald's specifications, and the closest alternative available to consumers is said to be Walmart's Great Value Deluxe American cheese, which is made by the same company.
The texture and melting properties of McDonald's cheese are well-suited for cheeseburgers. American cheese is known for its melting ability, and when used in combination with other cheeses, it can enhance their melting characteristics as well. The mild flavour of American cheese also ensures that it complements the other ingredients in the burger without being too overpowering.
While some may criticise McDonald's cheese for not being "real cheese", it is essential to understand that it belongs to the category of processed cheeses. Processed cheeses are manufactured by blending different types of cheeses and adding emulsifiers and preservatives, resulting in a product with a longer shelf life and consistent flavour and texture. This type of cheese is commonly used in the food service industry due to its convenience and ability to meet strict food safety standards.
In conclusion, McDonald's cheese is a type of American cheese that has been specifically designed for their cheeseburgers. While it may not be to everyone's taste, it serves its purpose in creating a recognisable and consistent product. The cheese's melting properties and mild flavour contribute to the overall sensory experience of the cheeseburger, demonstrating that even seemingly basic ingredients can play a crucial role in the appeal of fast-food items.
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It's made with cheddar and other ingredients
McDonald's uses cheese in many of its burgers, including the Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese, the Quarter Pounder with Cheese, the Big Mac, and the Big Arch Burger. The cheese used in McDonald's cheeseburgers has been described as ""plastic" and ""American".
McDonald's cheese is made with cheddar and other ingredients. It is a processed cheese that includes a blend of other cheeses and ingredients such as salt, water, milk solids, emulsifiers, colours, and preservatives. The exact blend is a proprietary recipe, but one source mentions that it includes bacon flavouring.
The cheese used in McDonald's burgers has a distinctive texture and melting quality that some people enjoy, while others find unappetising. Some people have compared it to Kraft Singles, Kraft Deluxe deli slices, Land O Lakes slices, and Velveeta. However, others have stated that McDonald's cheese is firmer than these options and more closely resembles a light cheddar.
While some people criticise the quality of McDonald's burgers and cheese, others appreciate the unique taste and texture that the cheese adds to the burgers. Ultimately, the appeal of McDonald's cheese may depend on individual preferences and expectations.
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It's processed and has additives
McDonald's uses processed cheese in its cheeseburgers, which is a blend of cheddar cheese and other cheeses, along with various additives. This includes ingredients such as salt, water, milk solids, emulsifier, colours and preservative. While some people enjoy the taste of McDonald's cheese, referring to it as a "Golden Gift from the Gods", others have less favourable opinions, describing it as ""plastic".
Processed cheese is made by blending different types of cheeses and adding emulsifiers, which help to create a smooth and consistent texture. This type of cheese is designed to be easily meltable and have a long shelf life. While it is safe to consume, processed cheese has been criticized for being highly processed and containing additives.
One of the main concerns with processed cheese is the presence of emulsifiers, which are added to improve meltability and texture. Common emulsifiers include sodium citrate and potassium citrate, which are generally recognized as safe in small quantities. However, some people prefer to avoid these additives due to potential health concerns and the desire for more natural food options.
Another issue with processed cheese is the potential for lower-quality ingredients. In some cases, processed cheese may contain high levels of fat and sodium, as well as fillers and artificial ingredients, to reduce costs and extend shelf life. This can result in a less nutritious product compared to unprocessed cheese.
The additives in processed cheese, such as colours and preservatives, have also come under scrutiny. While these additives are approved for use in food products, some people prefer to avoid them due to potential health and nutritional concerns. Natural cheese, for example, contains colour variations depending on the type of milk and ageing process, whereas processed cheese often has a uniform colour achieved through artificial means.
In summary, while McDonald's cheese is a popular topic of discussion and has its fans, the processed nature and use of additives are points of concern for some individuals. These criticisms are part of a broader debate about the role of highly processed foods in our diets and the preference for more natural, additive-free options.
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It's not considered 'real cheese'
McDonald's cheese is often referred to as "plastic cheese" by consumers, and while it is not literally made of plastic, it is highly processed. McDonald's cheese is made from a combination of cheddar cheese, other cheeses, and ingredients such as salt, water, milk solids, emulsifiers, colours, and preservatives. It is considered "processed pasteurized American cheese" by the company, which is made from milk, cream, water, sodium citrate, salt, cheese cultures, citric acid, enzymes, soy lecithin, and added colour.
According to the FDA, McDonald's cheese is not considered "real cheese." The organization defines American cheese as "pasteurized process cheese," which only needs to contain a minimum of 51% real cheese. McDonald's UK site, however, claims that their cheese slices are composed of 60% real cheddar and other cheese, which meets FDA standards.
Despite not being considered real cheese, many people enjoy the taste and texture of McDonald's cheese, especially on their cheeseburgers. Some describe it as "delicious," with a nice "ooey gooey texture" that complements the flavour of the beef patty without overpowering it. The cheese also melts well, contributing to the overall sensory experience.
While some may not consider it "real cheese," McDonald's cheese serves its purpose in enhancing the flavour and texture of their cheeseburgers, and for many consumers, that is what matters the most. It is important to note that highly processed foods, when consumed in large quantities, may have negative health implications. However, when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, McDonald's cheese can be enjoyed without significant health concerns.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not made of plastic. It is processed cheese made with cheddar cheese blended with other cheeses and ingredients such as salt, water, milk solids, emulsifiers, colours, and preservatives.
McDonald's cheese is processed cheese, made with a blend of cheddar cheese and other ingredients.
Some people think McDonald's cheese is delicious, while others dislike it. It is a matter of personal preference.
McDonald's Philippines introduced the cheese dunk, a cup of cheese sauce for dipping burgers or fries.
