Product HUB

American Cheese — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

American cheese photo

Listonic Team

September 4, 2024

American cheese is a processed cheese famous for its smooth texture and melting qualities. Explore its nutritional content, potential health impacts, and the best ways to store it to preserve flavor and texture.

American cheese nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of american cheese, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 371 kcal

Nutrition per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs6 g2.18%
Fiber0 g-
Sugars1 g2%
Glycemic Index0 -
Protein23 g46%
Sodium1395 mg60.65%
Total Fat31 g39.74%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes american cheese stand out:

23 g

💪 High Protein Content

American cheese facts & tips

🛒
Opt for lower-sodium varieties if available, especially if you're monitoring salt intake.
😋
American cheese, a type of processed cheese, is higher in sodium and lower in protein and other nutrients compared to traditional cheeses​​.
📦
Keep American cheese wrapped in its original plastic or wax paper in the refrigerator; use within two weeks.

Health benefits

Explore how American cheese can be part of a balanced diet and contribute to your overall health.
  • High in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
  • Rich in calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
  • Contains healthy fats, which provide energy and support cell function.
  • Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, and phosphorus, supporting overall health and well-being.

Health risks

Recognize the concerns linked to American cheese.
  • High sodium content which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks when consumed frequently.
  • High fat content particularly in full-fat American cheese, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed frequently.
  • Potential for artificial additives such as preservatives, flavorings, or colorings in some American cheeses, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
  • Low nutrient density as processed American cheese often contains fillers and stabilizers, offering fewer vitamins and minerals compared to natural cheeses.
Conversion widget image

Add american cheese to your digital grocery list!

How to choose american cheese

American cheese should be soft and creamy, with a mild flavor that melts easily. The slices should be uniform in size and thickness and separate easily without sticking together.

Avoid American cheese that is discolored or has a dry edge, as these are signs of exposure to air and aging. Cheese that has a plastic-like taste or does not melt properly should also be avoided, as it may contain fillers or additives that affect quality.

How to choose american cheese

How to store american cheese

American cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in its original packaging or an airtight container. Refrigeration maintains its texture and flavor for up to a month.

Air exposure can cause American cheese to dry out and lose its quality. Avoid leaving it uncovered, and always reseal the packaging tightly. Proper storage keeps it soft and delicious.

✅ Extra Tip

To prevent slices from sticking together, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between them before storing in an airtight container.

How long does it last?

American cheese can last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator once opened. Unopened, it can last for 1-2 months. For longer storage, American cheese can be frozen for up to 6 months.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover American cheese can be used in a variety of savory and comforting dishes. Use it to make grilled cheese sandwiches by layering slices between bread and toasting until melty, or mix it into a macaroni and cheese with cooked pasta and a creamy sauce. American cheese is also great when added to burgers, sandwiches, or wraps for a classic, cheesy flavor.

Use American cheese as a topping for pizzas, flatbreads, or nachos, where it adds a creamy texture and mild flavor. If you have a lot of American cheese, consider making a batch of cheese sauce by melting the cheese with butter and milk, perfect for drizzling over vegetables, fries, or baked potatoes. American cheese can also be used in a breakfast scramble with eggs, sausage, and vegetables, or mixed into a cheese dip with salsa and jalapeños. For a quick snack, enjoy American cheese with crackers, or melt it over popcorn for a cheesy treat.

👨‍⚕️️  Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Discover products from other categories