American cheese is a processed cheese made with milk, powdered milk, and butterfat, and may contain other processed ingredients. The best option depends on the label and personal taste preferences. “Pasteurized cheese food” contains at least 51% American cheese and has a higher melting point, while “pasteurized cheese product” contains less than 51% American cheese and has a lower melting point. Deli cheese is less processed and contains fewer preservatives. The color of American cheese comes from additives such as annatto and apocarotenal.
American cheese is actually a processed version that may or may not contain other types of cheese. It often consists of a myriad of processed ingredients. Choosing the best American cheese largely depends on checking the label and evaluating the ingredients. Of course, your individual taste preferences will also determine which cheese is best.
Generally, the product known as American cheese is not 100% cheese, but rather is made with milk, powdered milk, and butterfat. Many manufacturers also include milk protein concentrate, whey and salt. While the ingredients in most American cheeses might be similar, the tastes and textures vary greatly.
The quickest way to determine the best American cheese is to check the packaging. If the label states that the cheese is a “pasteurized cheese food,” that means it must contain at least 51 percent American cheese along with a certain minimum percent butterfat. Sure, it may still contain other processed ingredients, including dried milk solids and milk protein concentrate, but it will generally have the smooth, creamy taste and texture you might expect from American cheese. On the flip side, however, this type of cheese tends to have a higher melting point, and this could cause some frustration if you’re using it to make grilled cheeses, cheeseburgers, and other foods that require a cheese that melts easily.
On the other hand, if the label states that the product is a “pasteurized cheese product,” it likely contains less than 51 percent American cheese and doesn’t meet the minimum butterfat percentage. These cheeses have a higher amount of processed ingredients and will likely have flavors to match. On the plus side, these products generally have lower melting temperatures, so if you’re looking for a cheese for burgers or sandwiches that quickly produces a melty, gooey texture, this type may be a better choice for you.
Many brands, especially those that are prepackaged or self-identify as a “dairy product,” use added flavors, preservatives, and high amounts of sodium to enhance the taste and keep the cheese fresher for longer. Unfortunately, this sometimes gives the cheese an unnatural taste and texture that some describe as pungent, bitter, or chewy. Also, too much sodium can make the cheese too salty and gritty. If you’re looking for a cheese with a more natural, creamier taste, opt for those sold over the deli counter rather than the prepackaged variety because deli cheese is often less processed and contains fewer preservatives.
You may notice that American cheese also comes in two primary colors, namely white and yellow. Some brands have such a deep yellow color that they appear orange. The color comes from certain additives called annatto and apocarotenal. These additives generally don’t add much taste, but when used in larger quantities, such as in darker, more orange cheeses, some people may detect a slightly tangy or bitter taste. To be on the safe side, if you prefer a more natural flavor, opt for white cheeses over the yellow variety.
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