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American Cheese Calories
Melted, processed cheese, popular in sandwiches and burgers.
CALORIES
GI
POTASSIUM
FIBER
American Cheese Nutrition Facts
Selected: 100 g
307
KCAL / 100G
Carbs
7.1g
· 9%
Protein
16.1g
· 20%
Fat
24.6g
· 71%
Fiber
0g
American Cheese Vitamins & Minerals
Vitamins
B12
1.2µg · 50% DV
Vitamin A
260µg · 29% DV
B2
0.34mg · 26% DV
B5
0.4mg · 8% DV
Minerals
Calcium
960mg · 96% DV
Phosphorus
480mg · 69% DV
Sodium
1340mg · 58% DV
Zinc
3mg · 27% DV
American Cheese Glycemic Index
GLYCEMIC INDEX
GLYCEMIC LOAD
Accounts for portion size — a more realistic measure than GI alone.
Is American Cheese Processed?
NOVA 4
Ultra-Processed
1. Unprocessed
2. Minimally Processed
3. Processed
4. Ultra-Processed
NOVA classifies foods into 4 groups by industrial processing. NOVA 1 (unprocessed) is the healthiest.
Does American Cheese Contain Allergens?
Contains these allergens:
Which Diets Is American Cheese Good For?
Vegan
— Not suitable
Vegetarian
✓ Suitable
Gluten-Free
— Not suitable
Dairy-Free
— Not suitable
Mediterranean
— Not suitable
Paleo
— Not suitable
Whole30
— Not suitable
DASH
— Not suitable
Keto
— Not suitable
Low FODMAP
— Not suitable
American Cheese Fat Profile
SATURATED
15.3g
MONOUNSATURATED
6.2g
POLYUNSATURATED
0.7g
Omega 6:3 ratio 6.3:1
Above the ideal 4:1 (6.3:1).
Foods Similar to American Cheese
American Cheese — Frequently Asked Questions
Why does American cheese melt more smoothly than many natural cheeses?
It is typically made with emulsifying salts that help keep fat and water combined. This gives it a smooth, even melt in burgers, grilled cheese, and sauces.
What can I use American cheese for besides burgers and sandwiches?
It works well in omelets, quesadillas, macaroni sauces, baked potatoes, and soups. Add it over low to medium heat for the smoothest result.
Why can American cheese become oily when heated?
Very high heat or prolonged cooking can break its emulsion, causing some fat to separate. Melt it gently and add it near the end of cooking when possible.
How should American cheese be stored after opening?
Keep it tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Minimizing air exposure helps prevent the slices from drying out and absorbing odors.
Can American cheese be frozen?
Yes, but thawing may make the texture softer, wetter, or more crumbly. Frozen and thawed cheese is usually best used in cooked dishes rather than served as slices.
Is American cheese the same as cheddar?
No. Cheddar is a specific aged cheese, while American cheese is generally a processed cheese product made from cheese and other dairy ingredients. American cheese is usually softer and melts more uniformly.
Is American cheese a good everyday cheese choice?
It can fit into an overall balanced diet occasionally, but it is ultra-processed and often high in sodium. Rotating it with less processed cheeses is a practical habit.
Can people with lactose intolerance eat American cheese?
Tolerance varies, and lactose content differs by brand. Because it contains dairy, check the label and use your own tolerance as a guide.
Is American cheese useful after a workout?
It provides some protein, but it is not a complete recovery food on its own. Pair it with a more substantial protein source, carbohydrate-rich foods, and vegetables in a balanced meal.
Is it true that American cheese is not real cheese?
That claim is too simplistic. Many versions are made from cheese, but they may also contain emulsifiers and other ingredients, making them ultra-processed cheese products; the exact recipe varies by brand.
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Nutrition data compiled from USDA FoodData Central and scientific sources.