Andy Montoya
Kraft offers a wide variety of cheese products, including shredded, sliced, grated, and block cheeses. One of their popular products is the Kraft Finely Shredded Natural Sharp Cheddar Cheese, which is made with over 100 years of cheese-making experience. While some people may have differing opinions on the quality of Kraft cheese, it is important to note that Kraft does produce natural cheese products, including their Extra-Sharp Cheddar, which is well-regarded by some cheese enthusiasts and judges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural, processed, block, sliced, shredded, grated, cube, cracker cut, stick, string |
| Flavour | Sharp, extra-sharp, creamy |
| Texture | Melts well, gooey |
| Ingredients | Milk, whey, preservatives, emulsifying salt |
| Quality | Consistent, good value, not high-quality |
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What You'll Learn
Kraft's Cracker Barrel brand is considered high-quality cheese
The Cracker Barrel brand by Kraft is considered high-quality cheese. The brand was born in 1954 from a love for quality cheese and a passion for cheddar-making heritage and values. Cracker Barrel cheese is regarded highly by some of the top cheese judges in the world. It is also known for its consistency in taste.
Kraft's Cracker Barrel cheese is a staple in many households. The cheese is aged and graded multiple times during the cheese-making process. Only the finest cheese is wrapped in the brand's iconic foil packaging, which protects the cheese from light oxidation and moisture changes. The brand has been making consistently rich, full-flavored cheddar cheese for more than half a century.
While some people may not consider Kraft's Cracker Barrel cheese to be high-quality, it is important to note that the brand has a dedicated following. Some people have expressed disappointment with the taste and texture of the cheese, describing it as soft, greasy, and tasteless. However, others have defended the brand, stating that it is a perfectly fine medium cheddar that cooks well and is great for grilled cheese sandwiches and omelets.
The debate around the quality of Kraft's Cracker Barrel cheese is not just limited to online forums and personal preferences. In 2013, Kraft sued Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores to block them from selling a new line of branded products in grocery stores. Kraft argued that the restaurant chain's planned move into supermarkets would unfairly infringe on its "Cracker Barrel" trademark, create confusion among consumers, and damage its cheese brand. The lawsuit highlights the value and recognition of the Cracker Barrel brand in the cheese industry.
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Kraft cheese is consistent in taste
While some may debate the quality of Kraft cheese, the product is known for its consistency in taste. Kraft cheese is a highly recognisable brand, with its distinctive orange colour and square shape. The cheese is made with a combination of basic cheese, extra milk, and whey, which results in a consistent flavour and texture that has become familiar to consumers.
Kraft cheese is often chosen for its convenience and affordability, and the fact that it melts well, making it a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, and other melted cheese dishes. While it may not be considered a high-quality cheese by some, it is a reliable option that delivers the same taste experience every time.
One of the key advantages of Kraft cheese is its consistency across different batches and locations. As one commentator notes, Kraft cheese will taste the same today as it will next year, and it will taste the same in New York as it does in California. This level of consistency is challenging to achieve in the food industry and requires a significant amount of expertise and quality control.
The consistency of Kraft cheese can be attributed to the company's large-scale manufacturing processes and strict standards. The cheese is produced in controlled environments, ensuring that each batch meets the same specifications. This standardised production method results in a product that consumers can rely on to deliver the expected taste and performance.
Kraft cheese's consistency in taste also extends to its various forms. Whether shredded, sliced, grated, cubed, or in blocks, Kraft cheese maintains its signature flavour. This versatility, combined with its consistent taste, makes Kraft cheese a convenient and reliable option for a wide range of dishes and occasions, from quick snacks to family meals.
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Kraft cheese melts well
While opinions vary on the quality of Kraft cheese, one thing that many people agree on is that it melts well. Kraft cheese is often described as a good melting cheese due to its high milk and whey content, which improves its texture and meltability. The addition of emulsifying salts such as sodium citrate also contributes to its gooey, melty consistency.
Kraft offers a range of shredded, sliced, grated, cube, block, cracker cut, stick, and string cheeses, all of which can melt well when used appropriately. Their Signature shreds, for example, offer a restaurant-style blend with a thicker cut for a better melt and a rich, creamy flavor. The Finely Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese is another variety that is known for its ease of melting and is commonly used to sprinkle over salads, casseroles, pizzas, and pasta dishes.
The melting capability of Kraft cheese is also attributed to its consistency as a processed cheese. While some may argue that it is not a "great" cheese, it is recognized for its ability to melt uniformly and predictably. This makes it a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, as it provides a familiar, comforting taste and texture.
In addition to its melting properties, Kraft cheese is also praised for its convenience and affordability. It is widely available and provides a consistent product that can be easily incorporated into various dishes, making it a go-to option for many households. While some may prefer more artisanal or natural cheeses, Kraft cheese fills a specific niche in the market and has its own dedicated fan base.
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Kraft cheese is not regarded as great cheese
While Kraft does offer a wide range of cheese products, including shredded, sliced, grated, cubed, and block cheeses, their products are not generally regarded as great cheese. Kraft cheese is often seen as a more convenient and affordable option, but it may not meet the expectations of those seeking high-quality, traditional cheese.
Kraft cheese products, such as their famous American slices, are designed to melt easily and have a consistent taste and texture. This consistency is achieved by adding extra milk and whey, which also improves their shelf life. While some consumers appreciate the reliability and convenience of Kraft cheese, others may find it lacking in flavour and authenticity.
One of the main criticisms of Kraft cheese is that it is highly processed. The addition of preservatives and emulsifying salts, such as sodium citrate, contributes to its meltability but may detract from the natural taste and quality expected from traditional cheese. This has led some cheese enthusiasts to view Kraft cheese as a "scary freak food".
However, it is worth noting that Kraft does offer some block cheeses that are regarded more highly. For example, their Cracker Barrel brand, including the Extra-Sharp Cheddar variety, is considered by some cheese judges to be "pretty good stuff". This suggests that while Kraft may not be known for artisanal or specialty cheeses, they do offer some options that are a step above their more basic, processed offerings.
In conclusion, while Kraft cheese may not be regarded as great cheese by connoisseurs, it serves a purpose in the market. It provides a convenient, affordable, and consistent product that meets the needs of those seeking a quick fix of melted cheese without the fuss of traditional, higher-maintenance varieties.
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Kraft Natural Finely Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese is easy to melt and has a creamy flavor
While some people have differing opinions on the quality of Kraft cheese, the brand does offer a wide range of cheese products, including shredded, sliced, grated, and block cheese. One of their popular products is the Kraft Natural Finely Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese, which is known for its ease of melting and creamy flavor.
Kraft Natural Finely Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese is a convenient option for those who want a cheese that melts easily and evenly. It can be used to sprinkle over a variety of dishes, such as casseroles, salads, pizzas, and pasta, adding a creamy and gooey texture. The cheese is shredded into fine pieces, making it ideal for layering or sprinkling, and enhancing the flavor of the dish.
The product is a part of the Kraft Natural Cheese brand, which offers a range of cheese options for consumers. Kraft is known for its consistency in taste across different locations and over time. While some may have differing opinions on the quality of Kraft cheese, the brand has a long history of cheese-making experience, with over 100 years in the industry.
Kraft Natural Finely Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese is positioned as a versatile product that can be used to elevate everyday meals. It is marketed towards families, emphasizing its ability to appeal to a range of tastes and its convenience as a pre-shredded cheese. The cheese is described as having a rich, creamy flavor, adding a gooey texture to dishes without the need for additional preparation.
Overall, Kraft Natural Finely Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese is a convenient, versatile, and easy-to-melt cheese option with a creamy flavor. It is designed to enhance the taste of various dishes and cater to a wide range of consumers, especially those seeking convenience and a creamy, gooey texture in their meals.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Kraft grated cheddar cheese is made of cheese. However, some of their products may contain additional ingredients such as extra milk and whey to improve texture and meltability, as well as preservatives.
Kraft grated cheddar cheese is made primarily of milk, milk solids, and whey.
While Kraft grated cheddar cheese is not considered to be of exceptionally high quality, it is a good option for those seeking convenience and consistency. The cheese has a long shelf life and can be easily stored, making it a popular choice for families.
Kraft grated cheddar cheese is a versatile product that can be used in a variety of dishes, including casseroles, salads, pizzas, and pasta. It melts easily and has a rich, creamy flavor, making it a good option for adding cheese to your favorite meals.
