What To Know
- While it may serve as a convenient and budget-friendly cheese substitute, it falls short of the culinary and nutritional standards of traditional cheese.
- American cheese contains non-dairy ingredients, is not aged, has a higher sodium content, and lacks the fermentation process that gives real cheese its flavor and nutritional value.
- American cheese is high in sodium and contains additives that may disrupt the natural balance of flavors and nutrients in the cheese.
Why is American Cheese Not Cheese?
American cheese, often referred to as “plastic cheese” or “processed cheese,” has sparked a long-standing debate about its true nature. While it may bear the name “cheese,” it falls short of meeting the traditional definition of a cheese product. Here’s a closer examination of why American cheese is not considered genuine cheese:
1. Lack of Natural Ingredients
Traditional cheese is made from milk, cultures, and rennet, an enzyme that helps coagulate the milk proteins. American cheese, on the other hand, contains a blend of milk solids, whey proteins, vegetable oils, and emulsifiers. These additives alter the texture and flavor of the cheese, giving it a more artificial feel.
2. Absence of Aging
Genuine cheese undergoes an aging process that allows the flavors to develop and deepen. American cheese, however, is not aged at all. Instead, it is quickly processed and packaged, resulting in a bland and monotonous flavor.
3. High Sodium Content
American cheese is notoriously high in sodium, with a single slice containing around 10% of the recommended daily intake. This high sodium content can contribute to hypertension and other health issues.
4. Emulsifiers and Stabilizers
American cheese relies heavily on emulsifiers and stabilizers to maintain its smooth, uniform texture. These additives can disrupt the natural balance of flavors and nutrients in the cheese.
5. Limited Nutritional Value
Compared to traditional cheese, American cheese offers minimal nutritional value. It contains less protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients due to the addition of non-dairy ingredients.
6. Lack of Fermentation
The fermentation process, which is crucial for developing the complex flavors and aromas of cheese, is absent in American cheese. As a result, it lacks the depth and richness of genuine cheese.
7. Government Regulations
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the definition of cheese. According to the FDA, cheese must be made from milk, contain at least 50% milk fat, and be aged for a minimum of 60 days. American cheese does not meet these criteria, hence its classification as a “processed cheese product.”
Conclusion: The Verdict is Clear
Based on the aforementioned factors, it becomes evident that American cheese does not qualify as a genuine cheese product. Its lack of natural ingredients, absence of aging, high sodium content, reliance on additives, limited nutritional value, and failure to meet FDA regulations all contribute to its status as a processed cheese product. While it may serve as a convenient and budget-friendly cheese substitute, it falls short of the culinary and nutritional standards of traditional cheese.
FAQ
Q: What are the main differences between American cheese and real cheese?
A: American cheese contains non-dairy ingredients, is not aged, has a higher sodium content, and lacks the fermentation process that gives real cheese its flavor and nutritional value.
Q: Why is American cheese so cheap?
A: American cheese is cheaper than real cheese due to the use of non-dairy ingredients and the lack of aging, which reduces production costs.
Q: Is American cheese unhealthy?
A: American cheese is high in sodium and contains additives that may disrupt the natural balance of flavors and nutrients in the cheese. It should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Q: Can American cheese be used for cooking?
A: American cheese can be used for cooking due to its melting properties. However, it may not provide the same flavor or nutritional value as real cheese.
Q: What are some healthier alternatives to American cheese?
A: Healthier alternatives to American cheese include low-sodium natural cheeses, such as Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella, which offer higher nutritional value and a more authentic cheese experience.
