Frederic Melton
Fake cheese, or processed cheese, is a cheese product that is not 100% cheese. It is usually made by blending other fats or proteins with cheese to create a product that melts easily and is cheaper to produce. While fake cheese is not necessarily unhealthy, it often contains preservatives, salt, food dyes, emulsifiers, and other artificial ingredients. The inclusion of these ingredients can make the cheese last longer on the shelf, but it also means that the product is less nutritious than real cheese. Some popular fast-food chains that use fake cheese include McDonald's and Pizza Hut.
Is Fake Cheese Healthy?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Fake cheese is a product used as a culinary replacement for cheese. |
| Ingredients | Vegetable oil, food colouring, emulsifiers, sugar, salt, food dyes, preservatives, extra dairy, etc. |
| Types | Vegan cheese, dairy-containing products that don't qualify as traditional cheese (processed cheese), cheese analogues. |
| Examples | McDonald's cheese slices, Subway's processed cheese, Pizza Hut's blend of real and processed cheese, Kraft Singles, Daiya cheese, Chao Creamy Original Slices, Smart Beat Imitation Pasteurized Process Cheese Food. |
| Health Impact | Fake cheese is not 100% unhealthy. It is fine to consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is lower in fat and cholesterol compared to dairy cheese, and often a source of soy protein and isoflavones. |
| Advantages | Longer shelf life, uniform melt, cheaper, consistent flavour, more craveable. |
| Disadvantages | Lack of nutritional value, highly processed, contains unhealthy fats, contains additives and artificial ingredients. |
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What You'll Learn
Fake cheese is not 100% cheese
Fake cheese, or processed cheese, is not 100% cheese. It is a blend of real cheese and non-cheese ingredients. These non-cheese ingredients can include salt, food dyes, preservatives, extra dairy, emulsifiers, vegetable oils, and other artificial ingredients.
Processed cheese is designed to have a longer shelf life, better meltability, and a more consistent texture and flavour than real cheese. It is also cheaper to produce and sell, making it a popular choice for food manufacturers and consumers. However, the addition of these non-cheese ingredients means that processed cheese is not as healthy as real cheese. While it is fine to consume processed cheese in moderation, it is important to be aware of its nutritional content and potential negative health effects.
The amount of real cheese in processed cheese can vary, but it typically hovers around 50%. In the United States, for example, "pasteurized process cheese" must contain at least 47% milk fat, while "pasteurized process cheese food" only needs to contain 23%. There are also "cheese analogues" that look and taste like cheese but contain none of its ingredients. These products are made from blending other fats or proteins and are often used in convenience foods.
Some popular fast-food chains, such as McDonald's and Subway, have been known to use processed cheese in their products. While this may provide cost-effectiveness and ease, it sacrifices the genuine taste and nutritional value of real cheese.
It is important to note that not all synthetic or artificial ingredients are inherently harmful. For example, vitamin C tablets contain the same chemical compound as natural vitamin C, but are synthetic and man-made. However, consuming too much processed cheese can be unhealthy due to its high levels of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
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It's cheaper to make and lasts longer
Fake cheese, or processed cheese, is often designed to be cheaper to make and longer-lasting than real cheese. It is made with a base of real cheese, which is usually around 50%, and blended with other non-cheese ingredients. These ingredients can include vegetable oil, food colouring, emulsifiers, sugar, salt, preservatives, extra dairy, and other artificial ingredients.
The addition of preservatives and other ingredients means that processed cheese has a much longer shelf life than real cheese. It can sit at room temperature for a long time, and grocers and distributors don't need to care for it in the same way as real cheese, making it cheaper for producers, sellers, and consumers. This makes it a popular choice for fast-food chains and busy consumers, as it is cost-effective and convenient.
For example, McDonald's uses processed American cheese slices, which are individually wrapped and melt into a uniform layer, giving it a certain charm. Subway is also known for using processed cheese in its toasted subs, providing a consistent melt and making it a go-to for many customers. Pizza Hut also incorporates processed cheese products to achieve its signature look and taste, blending real cheese with processed options to meet the demands of consumers who want a perfect slice.
While processed cheese has its advantages in terms of cost and convenience, it is important to note that it is not as healthy as real cheese. It contains processed ingredients, added sugars, and salt, and the production process limits its flavour possibilities compared to real cheese. It is fine to consume in moderation, but it should not be a replacement for real cheese due to its lower nutritional value.
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It's not as healthy as real cheese
Fake cheese, or processed cheese, is not as healthy as real cheese. While it is fine to consume processed cheese in moderation, it is not the healthiest option. Processed cheese is not 100% cheese and often contains other non-cheese ingredients such as salt, food dyes, preservatives, extra dairy, emulsifiers, vegetable oils, and other artificial ingredients. These ingredients are added to extend the shelf life of the product, making it cheaper for producers, sellers, and consumers. However, they also add unnecessary processed ingredients and unhealthy fats to the cheese.
For example, Kraft Singles, a popular processed cheese product, contains 200 milligrams of sodium and only three grams of protein per slice. In comparison, a slice of real cheese, such as cheddar, typically contains around 170 milligrams of sodium and seven grams of protein. While the difference in protein content may not seem significant, the additional sodium in processed cheese can contribute to excess sodium intake, which can have negative health effects.
Another concern with processed cheese is the presence of additives and preservatives. While the additives in modern processed cheese are not considered more toxic than the organic compounds in natural cheese, the combination of various artificial ingredients can create a highly processed product that lacks the nutritional benefits of real cheese. Real cheese is a nutritious food that can provide protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, depending on the variety.
Additionally, the production process of real cheese allows for more flavour possibilities and unique textures that processed cheese cannot replicate. The craftsmanship and variability in real cheese-making result in a diverse range of flavours and qualities that processed cheese, with its focus on absolute consistency, cannot match.
In conclusion, while processed cheese may be convenient and appealing for its melting abilities and extended shelf life, it is not as healthy as real cheese. Processed cheese often contains unhealthy fats, excessive sodium, and artificial ingredients, while lacking the nutritional benefits and flavour diversity of its natural counterpart. As with everything in life, balance is key, and consuming processed cheese in moderation alongside a variety of healthier options can be a reasonable approach.
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Vegan cheese is a popular alternative
Vegan cheese is typically made from plant-based ingredients such as coconut oil, cashews, nutritional yeast, and starches from corn and potatoes. These ingredients help replicate the fattiness and texture of dairy cheese. Some popular brands offering vegan cheese include Violife, known for its Camembert-style cheese, and Green Vie, which offers a Greek-style block with oregano and olive oil.
Vegan cheese has come a long way in terms of taste and texture, with some varieties boasting a recognisable ingredients list and a sharp, pungent, mature cheddar flavour. These options melt well, providing a creamy texture similar to dairy cheese. However, not all vegan cheeses are created equal, and some may fall short in terms of flavour and quality.
When choosing a vegan cheese, it's essential to consider your intended use. For example, some vegan cheeses may not spread easily, making them less suitable for certain dishes like tacos or breakfast burritos. Additionally, the behaviour of vegan cheese during cooking can vary, with some melting well while others may split or grate differently from dairy cheese.
While vegan cheese may not be completely healthy due to the inclusion of vegetable oils and modified starches, it offers a dairy-free alternative for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant. It's important to read the ingredients and make informed choices based on your dietary preferences and health considerations.
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Some fast-food chains use fake cheese
Fast food is a staple in many people's diets, and cheese is a common ingredient in many of these meals. However, some fast-food chains have been known to use fake or processed cheese in their dishes. This practice is often done to cut costs, improve shelf life, and create a consistent melting effect. While it may be convenient and appealing to some consumers, the use of fake cheese raises concerns about the nutritional value and authenticity of these meals.
McDonald's is one of the most well-known fast-food chains that use processed cheese. Their cheeseburgers are iconic, and the individually wrapped squares of processed American cheese slices melt into a uniform layer of goo. While it adds to the charm of their burgers, it is important to note that this cheese is highly processed and built for melting rather than nutritional value. Similarly, Burger King has been accused of serving "cheese product" instead of real cheese on many of its burgers, particularly those with American cheese.
Subway is another popular chain that has been criticised for its use of processed cheese. Their famous Toasted Subs use processed cheese slices that can withstand high temperatures, resulting in a uniform melt. While this decision provides cost-effectiveness and convenience, it falls short in terms of authenticity and may disappoint cheese purists. Pizza Hut, a leading pizza chain, also blends real cheese with processed options to achieve a consistent quality and appeal, raising questions about the purity of their ingredients.
On a positive note, some fast-food chains are committed to using real, non-processed cheese. Wendy's, for example, uses natural cheddar cheese in their burgers, providing a refreshing change in the fast-food landscape. Taco Bell also uses a blend of real cheddar and mozzarella in their tacos, adding a burst of zest and tradition to their dishes. In-N-Out Burger and Five Guys are also known for their dedication to using real cheese and fresh ingredients, setting them apart in the fast-food industry.
While the use of fake cheese in fast food may be unavoidable due to cost and convenience, it is essential to be aware of its potential health implications. Processed cheese often contains fillers, additives, and unhealthy fats, especially when consumed in large amounts. Therefore, it is advisable to be mindful of the ingredients in your food and make informed choices, especially if you prioritise authenticity and nutritional value.
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Frequently asked questions
Fake cheese, or processed cheese, is not 100% cheese. It is a blend of real cheese and other non-cheese ingredients.
Fake cheese is not the healthiest option, but it is fine to consume in moderation. It contains preservatives and artificial ingredients, and the fat content can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
Some popular fast-food chains like McDonald's and Pizza Hut use processed cheese. McDonald's uses processed American cheese slices, while Pizza Hut blends real cheese with processed options.
Fake cheese is often used because it is cheaper and has a longer shelf life. It also melts more uniformly and consistently than real cheese.
Yes, vegan cheese is a popular alternative made from soybeans, rice, almonds, nutritional yeast, and other non-dairy ingredients. It is lower in fat, cholesterol-free, and often a source of protein and calcium.
