American Cheese: Delicious Or Deceitful?

American cheese is a polarizing topic in the culinary world, with some people considering it a staple in their kitchens, while others view it as an abomination. Despite its name, American cheese does not refer to any cheese made in the United States, but rather to a specific type of processed cheese that is known for its melting abilities. This cheese was patented in 1916 by James L. Kraft as a way to sterilize cheese, avoid food waste, and create a product that was easy to slice and stayed fresh for months. While some people appreciate its creamy texture and taste, others criticize it for being overly processed, containing too many ingredients, and having an unnatural texture.

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American cheese is highly processed

The long list of ingredients on a package of American cheese may seem alarming, but it is important to understand the context and realize that just because something sounds like a chemical, it does not mean it is inherently bad. Many natural foods contain compounds that can be considered chemicals. For instance, organic carrots contain dihydrogen monoxide, the main chemical constituent in acid rain.

American cheese is often criticized for being "full of chemicals" and "not real cheese." However, it is worth noting that American cheese does start with real cheese as its base. Once the cheese is made, it is blended with additional ingredients to modify its texture and flavor. These processes can be as simple as mixing it with another cheese or as complex as melting it with extra whey, milk proteins, and emulsifying salts.

The emulsifying agents in American cheese, such as sodium citrate or sodium phosphate, give it the unique ability to melt smoothly without becoming greasy or clumpy. This makes it a popular choice for cheeseburgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, where a smooth, uniform melt is desired. While American cheese may not be the most nutritious option, it certainly has its place in the culinary world, especially when a creamy, meltable cheese is required.

It's good for melting

American cheese is a popular choice for melting, especially for dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches, cheeseburgers, and macaroni and cheese. Its uniform melting qualities are due to its processing, which allows it to stay consistent and prevents the oil from separating. This is achieved by blending real cheese, typically a young cheddar or a blend of cheeses like Colby, cheddar, and Swiss, with extra liquid such as milk, whey, and emulsifiers like sodium phosphate or sodium citrate. The emulsifiers in American cheese allow the oil and water to bind together, resulting in a smooth and creamy melted cheese without the graininess that can occur with other cheeses.

The added liquid in American cheese also gives it a lower melting point, making it ideal for creating a sauce-like texture. This makes it a versatile option for various dishes, as it can be melted easily without becoming tough or stringy. The processing of American cheese also contributes to its uniform texture and appearance, ensuring a consistent product with each use.

While some people may have concerns about the processing of American cheese, it is important to note that it still primarily consists of cheese, with the added ingredients enhancing its melting capabilities. The ability of American cheese to melt uniformly and smoothly makes it a preferred choice for many dishes where melted cheese is desired.

However, it is worth mentioning that not all brands of American cheese perform equally when it comes to melting. Some users have reported issues with Kraft American cheese not melting properly, while others have recommended brands like Land O'Lakes and Walnut Creek for their superior melting qualities.

In conclusion, American cheese is a good choice for melting due to its processing, added liquids, and emulsifiers, which create a uniform, smooth, and creamy melted product. Its versatility and ease of melting make it a popular option for dishes requiring melted cheese, despite its milder flavor compared to more intensely flavored cheeses.

It's an iconic food

American cheese is iconic, there's no doubt about it. It's been around for a long time, since 1916 to be precise, when it was patented by James L. Kraft. It's a staple in fast-food burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, providing that irresistibly melty texture without the grease. It's a scientific marvel, a product of molecular gastronomy that has sustained the masses, from home cooks to soldiers in World War I.

The key to its melting prowess lies in its emulsifying agents, such as sodium citrate or sodium phosphate, which bind the fat, protein, and moisture in the cheese, preventing it from breaking down into a greasy mess when heated. This unique quality sets it apart from other cheeses and makes it a secret weapon in the kitchen for creating sleek, silky cheese sauces.

While some may turn their noses up at American cheese, deeming it overly processed or unnatural, others embrace it as a beloved comfort food. It's a versatile ingredient that can elevate dishes like queso, turkey pot pie, and seven-layer skillet dip.

American cheese has earned its place in the culinary world, and while it may not be the healthiest option, it certainly has its fans and remains a popular choice for those seeking convenience, affordability, and that signature melt.

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It's unhealthy

American cheese is unhealthy. It is highly processed, with Kraft Singles, the most popular brand, containing an astonishing 17 ingredients, including hydrogenated vegetable oils, which are terrible for heart health. A single slice of Kraft cheese has 275 mg of sodium, nearly double that of a slice of Tillamook's cheddar cheese.

American cheese is so heavily processed that it does not meet the FDA's minimum curd requirement, and should technically be referred to as "American pasteurized prepared cheese product". The long list of ingredients in American cheese may include emulsifying salts such as sodium citrate or sodium phosphate, which give it the magical property of melting smoothly without splitting into a greasy mess. However, these additional ingredients do not add to the quality of the product and may pose unknown health risks.

Furthermore, American cheese has a history of food safety issues. In 2015, Kraft recalled 36,000 cases of Kraft Singles because a thin strip of the individual packaging film may have adhered to the slice. This incident raises concerns about the potential presence of harmful chemicals and foreign substances in the cheese.

While some defend American cheese as a convenient and tasty ingredient, the health concerns surrounding its high level of processing and controversial ingredients cannot be ignored. The excessive number of ingredients and processing techniques used to create American cheese suggest that it is a highly engineered product that may be best enjoyed in moderation or avoided altogether for those seeking a more natural and nutritious cheese option.

It's not real cheese

American cheese is often criticised for not being "real cheese". This is because it is heavily processed and contains a long list of ingredients, including additives like emulsifying salts, milk proteins, and whey. Kraft Singles, the most popular brand of American cheese, have been criticised for containing 17 ingredients, including hydrogenated vegetable oils and high levels of sodium, which are considered unhealthy.

The high level of processing and number of ingredients in American cheese have led some people to perceive it as unnatural and unhealthy. The texture of American cheese has been described as plasticky, waxy, and greasy, further contributing to the perception that it is not a "real cheese". Some people also have ethical concerns about the production of American cheese, as it may be imported from countries with less stringent safety standards and oversight.

However, others argue that the perception of American cheese as "not real cheese" is snobbish and classist. They argue that American cheese is a convenient and affordable option for many people and that it has a place in certain culinary applications, such as grilled cheese sandwiches and cheeseburgers, where its melting properties are superior to those of other cheeses.

The debate around whether American cheese is "real cheese" or not is complex and multifaceted, involving considerations of taste, convenience, health, and ethics. Ultimately, the decision to consume American cheese is a personal one, and individuals should make informed choices based on their own values and preferences.

While some people may choose to avoid American cheese due to its processing and ingredient list, others may find it a convenient, tasty, and affordable option that suits their needs and preferences.

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