Kamil Perry
American cheese is a polarizing food product that has been described as plasticky, greasy, and salty. It is highly processed and does not meet the FDA's minimum curd requirement to be classified as cheese, hence the label pasteurized prepared cheese product or cheese food. While some people enjoy its smooth, creamy taste and melty texture, others find it disgusting and argue that it is not real cheese due to the addition of emulsifiers and other additives. The high sodium content of American cheese has also been criticized as a contributing factor to cardiovascular health risks. However, it is important to note that American cheese does have some nutritional value, and whether it is good or bad for one's health depends on various factors, including individual health challenges and lifestyle choices.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Texture | Plasticky, rubbery, unnatural |
| Taste | Smooth, creamy, salty, sweet |
| Ingredients | Cheese, vitamins, nutrients, emulsifiers, gelatin, additives |
| Nutritional value | High in saturated fat, calcium, phosphorus, sodium |
| Health effects | May increase risk of prostate cancer, heart disease, and stroke |
| Food industry classification | Pasteurized prepared cheese product, cheese food, cheese product |
| Perceived advantages | Melts easily, affordable |
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What You'll Learn
It's highly processed
American cheese is highly processed, which is off-putting to many consumers. It is often referred to as a "cheese product" or "cheese food" rather than cheese because it does not meet the FDA's minimum curd requirement. It is made with less than 50% real cheese, and contains additives and emulsifiers to give it a smooth and creamy texture. This high level of processing gives American cheese an unnatural appearance, with some comparing it to plastic or a toy.
The processing also affects the taste of American cheese, resulting in a weirdly slightly sweet and salty flavor that some find unappealing. It is also greasier than other cheeses, which contributes to its unpopularity. The high sodium content of American cheese is a health concern, as it can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
The high level of processing in American cheese also affects its durability. An average slice can last up to six months due to the addition of preservatives. While this extended shelf life can be convenient, it also indicates the presence of artificial ingredients that may not be healthy or natural.
Some consumers are moving away from highly processed foods like American cheese and towards more natural and nutritious options. This shift has led to a decline in the sales of processed cheese products like Kraft Singles. However, there are still those who enjoy the unique taste and texture of American cheese, especially in grilled cheese sandwiches and burgers.
While American cheese is highly processed, it does have some nutritional value. It contains vitamins, calcium, and phosphorus, which can contribute to bone health. However, it is also high in saturated fat, which can increase LDL ("bad") cholesterol. As with any food, the health impact of consuming American cheese depends on various factors, including the amount consumed, individual health, and overall diet and exercise habits.
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It's not considered real cheese
American cheese is often criticized for not being considered "real cheese". While it is made with cheese and contains vitamins and nutrients, it is highly processed and contains other additives. In fact, American cheese does not meet the FDA's minimum curd requirement and is therefore legally required to be labelled as a "pasteurized prepared cheese product" or "pasteurized process cheese food".
The level of processing in American cheese is reflected in its texture and appearance, with some describing it as plasticky, greasy, and resembling a toy rather than something edible. Its unnatural sheen makes it look like it belongs in a Lego set rather than on a sandwich.
The processing also affects the taste of American cheese, with some describing it as having an indistinguishable, slightly sweet flavor. While it is known for its melty texture, this is attributed to the addition of gelatin rather than the properties of natural cheese.
The high level of processing in American cheese also contributes to its long shelf life. An average slice can last up to six months due to the number of additives, which can include emulsifiers, unhealthy fats, and excess sodium. In fact, a slice of American cheese contains 468 mg of sodium, significantly more than the 174 mg found in a slice of cheddar.
The combination of high processing, unnatural appearance and texture, and high sodium content leads many to consider American cheese as not being "real cheese".
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It's too salty
While some people enjoy the smooth and creamy taste of American cheese, others find it too salty. This salty taste comes from the high sodium content in American cheese. A single slice of American cheese contains 468 mg of sodium, which is significantly higher than the 174 mg found in a slice of cheddar.
The high sodium content in American cheese can have negative health effects, such as raising blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. For this reason, it is recommended that American cheese be consumed only occasionally and in moderation.
The high salt content in American cheese may also be due to the fact that it is highly processed. American cheese is often referred to as a "cheese product" or "cheese food" because it contains less than 50% real cheese. The processing and added ingredients give American cheese its distinctive texture and flavour, but also contribute to its high sodium content.
Some people may be particularly sensitive to the salty taste of American cheese, especially when compared to other cheeses or foods with lower sodium levels. This can be off-putting for those who are trying to reduce their sodium intake or who are sensitive to salty flavours.
In conclusion, the high salt content in American cheese can be off-putting for some people and can have negative health effects when consumed in large quantities. While American cheese has its fans, its salty flavour is a common criticism and may be one of the reasons why some people choose to avoid it.
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It's greasy
American cheese is often criticised for being greasy. While it is true that American cheese has a high fat content, there are several other factors that contribute to the greasiness of a dish that includes American cheese.
Firstly, the choice of bread is important. Thicker, crusty breads tend to absorb more butter and oil, resulting in a heavier, greasier sandwich. Lighter breads, such as sourdough or whole grain, provide a more satisfying texture without becoming overly greasy.
Secondly, the amount of butter used can significantly impact the greasiness of a grilled cheese sandwich. Excessive butter can easily lead to a greasy sandwich. A light, even coating of butter on the outside of the bread will create a crust without making the sandwich greasy.
Thirdly, the cooking temperature matters. Cooking at a lower temperature allows the bread to crisp up without burning, reducing greasiness.
Finally, the type of cheese used can also affect the greasiness of a dish. Some cheeses have a higher fat content than others, and when melted, these cheeses can release excess oil, leading to a greasy sandwich. For example, while cheddar is a popular choice for grilled cheese, it has a high fat content. Using aged cheddar or a mix of cheeses can add flavour without being overly greasy.
Despite the criticism, American cheese remains a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches due to its excellent melting properties.
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It's unhealthy
American cheese is unhealthy because it is highly processed and contains many added ingredients. Kraft Singles, the most popular brand of American cheese, contain an alarming 17 ingredients, including hydrogenated vegetable oils, which are known to be detrimental to heart health.
American cheese is also high in sodium, with one slice containing 468 mg of sodium, which is nearly double that of a slice of cheddar. High sodium diets are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. American cheese is also high in saturated fat, with 5 grams of saturated fat per slice, accounting for 25% of the recommended daily intake.
American cheese has been described as greasy, plasticky, and too salty, and some have even likened its texture to rubber. It is also not considered "real" cheese, as it contains less than 50% actual cheese and does not meet the FDA's minimum curd requirement.
While American cheese does provide some nutritional benefits, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals, these are outweighed by the negative aspects. It is important to consume American cheese only occasionally and in moderation, as part of a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
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Frequently asked questions
American cheese is highly processed and contains additives, giving it an unnatural plasticky texture and appearance. It is also very high in sodium, which can be unhealthy.
American cheese is made from a combination of cheeses and other products, including emulsifiers and gelatin. It is classified as a "pasteurized prepared cheese product" or "pasteurized process cheese food" by the FDA.
While American cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium, it also contains vitamins, nutrients, calcium, and phosphorus, which can be beneficial for bone health. It is also a good melting cheese.
