Are Kraft singles low in FODMAP? The surprising truth about processed cheese

November 4, 2025 •

4 min read

Did you know that the low FODMAP diet often provides relief for up to 75% of people with IBS symptoms? This makes scrutinizing ingredients crucial, and many people on this diet wonder: are Kraft singles low in FODMAP? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no, depending largely on processing, portion size, and an individual's tolerance to lactose.

Quick Summary

The low-FODMAP status of Kraft Singles is complex due to its processed nature and potential for higher lactose content than aged cheeses. While a very small serving might be tolerable for some, the specific ingredients and processing methods can make it problematic. Aged, hard cheeses and certified low-FODMAP products are generally safer alternatives.

Key Points

Processed, Not Aged: Kraft Singles are a processed cheese food, not natural aged cheese, meaning their lactose content is less reliable for a low FODMAP diet.
Risky Ingredients: Added dairy components like skim milk, whey, and milk protein concentrate re-introduce lactose, increasing the FODMAP content.
Portion Size is Critical: While a very small serving (e.g., two slices) might be tolerated, larger amounts exceed the low-FODMAP threshold for lactose.
Aged Cheeses Are Safer: Hard, aged cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, and Swiss are naturally low in lactose and are a better choice for managing FODMAP symptoms.
Use the Monash App: The most reliable way to check verified low-FODMAP servings for various cheeses and products is through the Monash University app.
Individual Tolerance Varies: Response to lactose can differ from person to person, so a very small portion may be tolerable for some, but not a guaranteed safe food.

Understanding FODMAPs and Dairy

The low FODMAP diet is designed to manage symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by reducing the intake of certain short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed by the gut. When it comes to dairy products like cheese, the primary FODMAP of concern is lactose, a disaccharide (sugar) found in milk.

The level of lactose in cheese depends largely on how it is processed and aged. The longer a cheese is aged, the more time bacteria have to break down the lactose into lactic acid. This is why aged, hard cheeses are often well-tolerated on a low FODMAP diet, even by those with lactose sensitivity. Conversely, fresh, soft cheeses tend to retain more lactose.

The Processing of Kraft Singles

Kraft Singles are not a traditional, aged cheese but a pasteurized processed cheese food. Their manufacturing process involves melting and blending real cheese with other dairy components, emulsifiers, and preservatives. Critically, the ingredients list often includes elements like skim milk, whey, and milk protein concentrate. The addition of these dairy solids and whey after the initial cheese making can re-introduce lactose, increasing the final FODMAP content. This differs significantly from the process for aged cheese, where lactose is naturally reduced over time.

The Impact of Ingredients

An examination of the ingredient list is crucial for anyone following a low FODMAP diet. For example, some analyses have flagged multiple ingredients in Kraft American Singles as potentially high FODMAP. The presence of milk solids and whey, which are both potential sources of lactose, raises a red flag. While these ingredients may not contain a high concentration of lactose individually, their combined presence in a processed product makes it a more uncertain choice than a natural, aged cheese.

Portion Size and Individual Tolerance

Individual tolerance to lactose varies, and a very small portion of a product with some lactose may not trigger symptoms in everyone. For Kraft Singles, some sources suggest that a very small serving, such as two slices, may be compatible with the low-FODMAP diet. However, consuming more than this amount could increase the lactose to a problematic level for those with lactose sensitivity. This is different from a hard cheese like parmesan, where a much larger portion is considered low-FODMAP due to its near-zero lactose content. It's important to remember that this is based on analysis and not official testing by a body like Monash University.

Safer, Low-FODMAP Cheese Alternatives

If you're looking for a low-FODMAP cheese for your sandwich or recipe, you have many excellent and safer options.

Aged, hard cheeses: These are generally low-lactose and considered safe. Examples include cheddar, parmesan, Swiss, and Monterey Jack.
Certain semi-soft cheeses: Some semi-soft cheeses are also suitable in moderate portions, such as brie and camembert, due to their aging process.
Feta cheese: A moderate serving of feta cheese (around 40g) is considered low FODMAP, though be mindful of the portion.
Lactose-free products: For the taste and texture of cheese while minimizing lactose, look for explicitly labeled lactose-free cheeses.

A Comparison of Cheeses and Their FODMAP Potential


Type of Cheese	Processing	Lactose Content	Low-FODMAP Suitability	Typical Example
Aged Hard	Aged for months/years	Very low to negligible	High; generally safe even in larger quantities	Cheddar, Parmesan
Fresh Soft	Minimal aging	Higher	Can be high FODMAP; portion size is crucial	Ricotta, Cottage Cheese
Processed Slices	Melted and blended	Moderate	Questionable; very small, specific portions only	Kraft Singles
Lactose-Free	Special enzymes added	Very low to negligible	High; designed for lactose intolerance	Lactose-free Cheddar

Practical Tips for Enjoying Cheese on a Low FODMAP Diet

Stick to aged, hard cheeses: These are your safest bet. Their strong flavor means you often need less for a big impact.
Be mindful of portion sizes: Even with moderate-FODMAP cheeses like feta or haloumi, limiting your intake is essential for managing symptoms.
Check the label: Always scrutinize ingredient lists for added dairy components like whey or milk solids, which can increase lactose content.
Use the Monash app: For the most up-to-date and accurate information on specific brands and verified portion sizes, refer to the Monash University FODMAP app.

Conclusion: Navigating Cheese on the Low FODMAP Diet

So, are Kraft singles low in FODMAP? In a nutshell, no, they are not a reliable low-FODMAP food. While some might tolerate a very small, specific portion, their processed nature and added dairy ingredients make them a risky choice for someone with lactose sensitivity. Unlike natural, aged hard cheeses, which have very low lactose and are generally well-tolerated, Kraft Singles' composition can be problematic. For effective symptom management, it is best to opt for aged cheeses, lactose-free varieties, or stick to officially tested servings of moderate-FODMAP cheeses. Ultimately, paying close attention to ingredients and portion sizes is the most reliable strategy for enjoying cheese while following a low-FODMAP diet. For additional resources, consider checking the Monash University FODMAP website.

Frequently Asked Questions

According to some analyses, a very small, specific serving size (like two slices) of Kraft Singles might be considered low-FODMAP based on its estimated lactose content. However, exceeding this amount can cause symptoms in individuals with lactose sensitivity.

Aged cheeses, such as cheddar and parmesan, undergo a fermentation process that naturally breaks down most of the lactose. Processed cheese slices, however, often have additional dairy products like whey and milk solids added back in, increasing the lactose content.

The primary FODMAP in cheese and other dairy products is lactose, a type of sugar. When following a low FODMAP diet, the goal is to limit the intake of this carbohydrate.

While some online tools analyze ingredients, products like Kraft Singles have not been specifically tested and certified by Monash University. For reliable, tested options, consult the official Monash FODMAP app.

Yes, you can. The low FODMAP diet is not dairy-free, but it restricts foods high in lactose. Aged, hard cheeses like cheddar and parmesan are naturally low in lactose and generally well-tolerated.

Good alternatives include aged hard cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, and parmesan. Some semi-soft cheeses like brie and camembert are also low-FODMAP in specific portions. For non-dairy options, look for plant-based cheeses without high-FODMAP additives.

A quick way to check is to look at the nutrition information panel. The sugar listed on the panel for a plain dairy product indicates its lactose content. Generally, firmer, less-processed cheeses will have lower sugar content than spreads or processed slices.