American Cheese — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
American cheese nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 371 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 6 g | 2.18% |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 1 g | 2% |
| Glycemic Index | 0 | - |
| Protein | 23 g | 46% |
| Sodium | 1395 mg | 60.65% |
| Total Fat | 31 | 39.74% |
*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.
23 g
💪 High Protein Content
American cheese facts & tips
Health benefits
- 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
- 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.
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 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
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
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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