Bushra Griffith
Cheddar and American cheese are two of the most popular cheeses, but they are also among the highest in cholesterol and saturated fat. While both types of cheese can be enjoyed in moderation, they differ in nutritional value and health benefits. Cheddar cheese is a natural cheese with a better nutritional profile, while American cheese is more processed and has a higher sodium content.
Cheddar Cheese vs. American Cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fat Content | Cheddar cheese contains 7.1 g of fat per slice, while American cheese contains 5.9 g per slice. |
| Saturated Fat | Cheddar cheese contains 4 g of saturated fat per slice, while American cheese contains 3.4 g. |
| Sodium | Cheddar cheese is lower in sodium, with 137 mg per slice, while American cheese contains 317 mg. |
| Calories | Cheddar cheese is denser in nutrients and higher in calories, with 404 calories per 100 g serving, compared to 371 calories in American cheese. |
| Protein | Cheddar cheese is higher in protein, with 6 g per slice, while American cheese contains 3 g. |
| Carbohydrates | American cheese contains more carbohydrates. |
| Vitamins | Cheddar cheese is richer in vitamins, such as folate and vitamins B1, B2, and B5. American cheese has higher levels of vitamin D (8% DV) and vitamin B12. |
| Minerals | American cheese has higher levels of calcium, vitamin D, iron, potassium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, and choline. Cheddar cheese is higher in selenium, zinc, and other minerals. |
| Processing | American cheese is more processed than cheddar cheese, which is made naturally. |
| Lactose | Cheddar cheese has less lactose due to the removal of whey during processing. |
| Moisture Content | Cheddar cheese has a maximum moisture content of 39%, while American cheese allows up to 40%. |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar has less sodium and is less processed
When it comes to choosing between American cheese and cheddar cheese, several factors come into play, including taste preferences, nutritional content, and health considerations. While both types of cheese can be part of a balanced diet, there are some key differences worth noting, especially when it comes to fat content, sodium levels, and processing.
Cheddar cheese is known for its dense nutrient content, which contributes to higher calorie, protein, and fat levels compared to American cheese. However, when it comes to sodium, cheddar cheese takes the lead in being the lower-sodium option. A single slice of American cheese contains approximately 317 mg of sodium, while the same amount of cheddar cheese has significantly less, at around 137 mg. This difference is primarily due to the processing methods used for each cheese. American cheese is a processed cheese, often made from a combination of different types of cheese, including cheddar, washed curd, Colby, or granular cheese. The processing involved in making American cheese can increase the sodium content. On the other hand, cheddar cheese is a natural cheese that undergoes a slower manufacturing process, which helps reduce the need for additional salt as a preservative.
The lower sodium content in cheddar cheese is particularly advantageous for individuals who are mindful of their sodium intake. Excessive sodium consumption has been linked to various health concerns, including increased blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. By choosing cheddar cheese over American cheese, individuals can reduce their sodium intake and potentially lower their risk of these health issues. Additionally, the lower processing of cheddar cheese aligns with dietary preferences that emphasize whole, minimally processed foods.
While cheddar cheese boasts a lower sodium content, it's important to note that not all cheddar cheeses are created equal. The sodium levels in cheddar can vary depending on factors such as the aging process, manufacturing techniques, and added ingredients. Aged cheddar cheeses, for example, tend to have higher sodium levels due to the longer brining process. Therefore, when selecting a cheddar cheese, it's advisable to read the nutrition label and opt for low-sodium or reduced-sodium varieties whenever possible.
In summary, when considering the differences between American cheese and cheddar cheese, cheddar cheese emerges as the winner in terms of lower sodium content and reduced processing. This information can guide consumers in making informed choices, especially those who are conscious of their sodium intake and prefer less processed food options. However, it's important to remember that moderation is key, and enjoying either cheese in moderation, alongside a balanced diet, can be acceptable for most individuals.
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American cheese has more calcium, iron, and vitamin D
While Cheddar cheese is denser in nutrients and higher in calories, protein, and fats, American cheese has a higher content of calcium, iron, and vitamin D.
American cheese is a processed cheese made from cheddar cheese, washed curd cheese, Colby cheese, granular cheese, or any mixture of these. It has a milder taste and a slightly salty flavour. Cheddar cheese, on the other hand, is a hard and dry cheese with a higher moisture content.
In terms of nutritional value, American cheese contains 317mg of sodium, 8% DV of vitamin D, and 15% DV of calcium. Cheddar cheese, being less processed, has lower sodium content at 137mg and is higher in selenium, with 11% DV compared to 7% DV in American cheese.
The higher content of calcium, iron, and vitamin D in American cheese may be due to the processing and fortification of the cheese. Fortification is a process where nutrients are added to food to increase their nutritional value. This process is commonly used in dairy products, including cheese, to enhance their nutritional profile.
Both American and Cheddar cheese can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. Monitoring your total fat, saturated fat, and sodium intake from other foods will help you enjoy these cheeses without exceeding recommended limits.
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Cheddar is denser in nutrients and natural ingredients
Cheddar cheese, originating from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England, has been a popular cheese worldwide since the 12th century. It is considered a tasty addition to many comfort foods, such as mac and cheese, burgers, and quesadillas. While it has some nutritional drawbacks, such as its high-calorie count and saturated fat content, it also provides several essential nutrients and natural ingredients that make it a more nutrient-dense option than American cheese.
Firstly, cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, providing 200mg or 20% of the daily recommended value per ounce. Calcium is critical for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis, a condition that involves the harmful degeneration of bone density. In comparison, American cheese provides only 8% DV of calcium.
Secondly, cheddar cheese contains a range of other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, and riboflavin. Specifically, one ounce of cheddar provides 10% of the daily recommended vitamin A intake and 14% of phosphorus. On the other hand, American cheese is lower in selenium, providing only 7% DV compared to 11% DV in cheddar.
Additionally, cheddar cheese is a great source of protein, with 7 grams per ounce, contributing significantly to your daily protein intake. While American cheese is also high in protein, it is important to note that it is a processed cheese product, made by mixing several types of cheese and other ingredients. These additional ingredients may include acidifying agents, water, salt, artificial coloring, emulsifying agents, and spices or artificial flavors. As a result, American cheese is often higher in sodium, with 317mg, compared to 137mg in cheddar cheese.
In summary, while both cheeses have similar calorie counts, cheddar cheese offers a more diverse range of nutrients and natural ingredients. It is a better source of calcium, selenium, and several other vitamins and minerals. Additionally, its lower sodium content and lack of processing make it a healthier option than American cheese. Therefore, when choosing between the two, cheddar cheese is a denser and more nutritious option, contributing more significantly to your daily intake of essential nutrients.
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American cheese is a processed blend of milk, fats, and whey protein
American cheese is a good source of dietary fats, calcium, and vitamin D. It is also a low-carb food, with only 1 gram of carbohydrates per slice, and provides high-quality protein in the form of whey and casein. These milk proteins offer all nine essential amino acids, which are necessary for various bodily functions such as muscle building and energy production.
While American cheese offers some nutritional benefits, it is also high in sodium and saturated fat. A single slice of American cheese contains around 342 milligrams of sodium, classifying it as a high-sodium food. It also has a high-fat content, with 68% of the calories in a slice coming from fat. As such, it is recommended to consume American cheese in moderation to avoid potential adverse health effects associated with excess sodium and saturated fat intake.
When compared to Cheddar cheese, American cheese has a milder taste and a slightly salty flavor. It also has a lower fat content, with 5.9 grams of total fat compared to 7.1 grams in Cheddar. However, Cheddar cheese is denser in nutrients and considered more natural since it is less processed. It is also lower in sodium, with 137 milligrams compared to 317 milligrams in American cheese.
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Cheddar is harder to overeat due to its strong flavour
Cheddar cheese is a versatile dairy product with a strong flavour and a rich nutritional profile. While it is important to monitor total fat intake when consuming cheese, cheddar's strong flavour can make it harder to overeat compared to milder cheeses like American cheese.
Cheddar cheese is known for its distinct, sharp flavour, which can vary depending on the aging process and the type of milk used. The longer cheddar cheese is aged, the sharper and more complex its flavour becomes. This ageing process also affects the texture, making cheddar a hard and dry cheese with a longer shelf life. The strong flavour of cheddar means that a little can go a long way, and you may find yourself satisfied with smaller portions.
In contrast, American cheese tends to have a milder taste and a slightly salty flavour. It is a processed cheese, often made from a blend of different cheeses, milk, milk fats, and solids. This processing gives American cheese a softer texture and higher moisture content than cheddar. The milder flavour of American cheese may make it easier to consume larger quantities, potentially leading to overconsumption.
When it comes to fat content, both cheeses contain similar amounts of total fat and saturated fat per slice. However, American cheese tends to have a slightly higher fat content overall. Cheddar, being a harder cheese, has less lactose as the whey is removed during processing. Additionally, cheddar is denser in nutrients, including protein and essential vitamins like folate and vitamins B1 and B2.
So, while both cheeses should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, cheddar's stronger flavour can act as a natural portion control mechanism, making it harder to overeat. This, coupled with its denser nutrient content, can make cheddar a more satisfying and nutritious choice compared to American cheese.
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Frequently asked questions
American cheese has a slightly lower fat content than cheddar cheese. A single slice of American cheese contains 5.9g of fat, while a slice of cheddar cheese contains 7.1g of fat. However, it is worth noting that both cheeses are high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.
American cheese is more processed than cheddar cheese. Cheddar cheese is made naturally, while American cheese is a processed cheese product made from a blend of milk, milk fats, solids, and other fats and whey protein concentrates.
The key differences between American cheese and cheddar cheese lie in their nutritional content and processing methods. American cheese has a higher content of calcium, potassium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, and choline, while cheddar cheese is richer in zinc, selenium, and protein. Cheddar cheese is also a natural cheese with lower sodium and trans fat content.
