How Many Calories are in a Kraft Single?

December 11, 2025 •

3 min read

While a standard Kraft Singles American slice contains approximately 50-60 calories, depending on the specific product and region, variations exist across the brand's product line. Understanding how many calories are in a Kraft single, along with its other nutritional components, can help inform your dietary choices and meal planning.

Quick Summary

Learn the specific calorie and nutritional information for different Kraft Singles varieties, including American, 2% milk, and Sharp Cheddar, and their unique characteristics.

Key Points

Calorie Range: Standard American Kraft Singles typically contain 50-60 calories per slice, with minor variations depending on product size and market.
Reduced-Fat Option: The 2% Milk American cheese single is a lower-calorie alternative, with about 45 calories per slice.
Not Real Cheese: Under FDA regulations, Kraft Singles are a 'pasteurized prepared cheese product' because they contain less than 51% actual cheese.
High in Sodium and Saturated Fat: While a good source of calcium, singles also have notable levels of sodium and saturated fat.
Variations Exist: Other varieties like Sharp Cheddar, Thick Slices, and Deli Deluxe have different calorie counts and nutritional profiles.
Signature Melt: Added emulsifiers like sodium citrate give Kraft Singles their uniquely smooth, meltable texture.

The Calorie Count of a Standard Kraft Single

For the classic, individually-wrapped yellow slice, the calorie count can vary slightly based on the specific American market and product sizing, typically falling in the 50-60 calorie range. For example, some product listings show a 60-calorie count for a 0.7 oz slice, while Kraft's own website for its classic American Slices lists 50 calories per serving. This minor variation is worth noting, especially for those meticulously counting calories. The majority of these calories come from its fat content, followed by protein and a small amount of carbohydrates.

More Than Just Calories: Nutritional Breakdown

Beyond the calorie count, it's important to look at the other nutrients a Kraft single provides. While it is a source of dairy, it is also highly processed. Here's a typical nutritional profile for a standard American slice, based on different versions reported by food databases and Kraft itself:

Total Fat: Around 3-4 grams per slice.
Saturated Fat: A significant portion of the total fat, typically 2-3 grams per slice.
Sodium: A standard slice can contain between 200 and 250 milligrams of sodium.
Protein: Provides 3 to 4 grams of protein per slice.
Calcium: A single slice is also a source of calcium, sometimes fortified to offer a percentage of your daily needs.

Is a Kraft Single Real Cheese?

An important distinction to make is that a Kraft single is not legally classified as real cheese by the FDA. It is labeled as a "pasteurized prepared cheese product" because it contains less than 51% actual cheese curds. This highly processed nature gives it the distinct, uniform, and perfectly meltable texture it is known for, which is achieved through the use of emulsifying agents like sodium citrate. This is a key difference from more natural cheeses, which vary in texture and melt differently depending on their age and type.

Other Popular Kraft Singles Varieties

Kraft offers several varieties beyond the classic American slice, each with its own calorie and nutritional content. This table shows a comparison of some popular options:


Kraft Single Variety	Calories Per Slice	Total Fat (approx.)	Sodium (approx.)	Key Difference
American (Standard)	50-60	3-4g	200-250mg	The classic, iconic square
American (2% Milk)	45	2.5g	220-230mg	Reduced-fat version with fewer calories
Sharp Cheddar	60	4g	240mg	Tangier cheddar flavor
Deli Deluxe American	70	3.5g	300mg	Creamier, thicker slice
Thick Slices	80	5g	440mg	Larger and thicker portion

The Role of Kraft Singles in a Balanced Diet

Because of their high saturated fat and sodium content, health experts recommend consuming processed cheese products like Kraft Singles in moderation, especially if monitoring blood pressure or heart health. However, they can provide a boost of calcium and protein for a relatively low number of calories compared to other foods, as long as they are balanced with nutrient-dense options like whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins.

In the context of a sandwich or cheeseburger, the addition of a single slice can be a small component of the total meal. The key to healthy eating is overall balance, and the occasional Kraft single likely won't derail a nutritious diet. It is, however, wise to be mindful of its processed nature and higher sodium levels compared to less-processed cheeses. For those looking to reduce fat and calories, the 2% milk variety is a useful alternative.

Conclusion

In summary, the number of calories in a Kraft single can range from as low as 45 for a 2% milk version to as high as 80 for a thick-cut slice. The standard American variety typically provides 50 to 60 calories per slice, along with notable amounts of fat and sodium. Though not legally defined as real cheese, these prepared cheese products can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, offering a convenient source of calcium and protein with their signature melt. Ultimately, understanding these nutritional facts allows for informed choices that fit your dietary goals and lifestyle.

Check out the official Kraft product information for specific varieties

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard American Kraft single generally has 50-60 calories, while the 2% milk version contains fewer calories, at about 45 per slice.

No, due to FDA regulations, it is classified as a 'pasteurized prepared cheese product' because it contains less than 51% actual cheese ingredients.

A single slice typically contains a notable amount of sodium, often ranging from 200 mg to 250 mg, which is a significant percentage of the daily value.

Some versions, such as the Sharp Cheddar Slices, are listed as gluten-free, but it is always best to check the specific product's packaging for definitive dietary information.

A standard American Kraft Single provides about 3 to 4 grams of protein per slice.

The smooth melting quality is due to added emulsifying agents, like sodium citrate, which prevent the fats from separating during heating.

Due to their high saturated fat and sodium content, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, despite providing calcium and protein.