How many calories are in a slice of American processed cheese? A nutritional breakdown

October 22, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a single slice of American processed cheese typically contains between 60 and 75 calories, but this can vary slightly by brand and slice size. This variation is a key factor for anyone counting calories or trying to manage their intake within a specific nutrition diet plan.

Quick Summary

A single slice of American processed cheese averages 60 to 75 calories, with the exact amount influenced by brand and slice size. The nutritional profile includes fat, saturated fat, protein, and a notable amount of sodium, along with significant calcium content.

Key Points

Calorie Range: A single slice of American processed cheese typically contains 60 to 75 calories, depending on the brand and size.
High in Sodium: Processed cheese generally has a high sodium content due to emulsifying salts and additives, which can impact individuals with blood pressure concerns.
Contains Saturated Fat: The majority of calories in processed cheese come from fat, including a significant amount of saturated fat.
Rich in Calcium: American cheese is often fortified with calcium, contributing to bone health despite its processing.
Nutritional Difference: Processed cheese differs from natural cheese by its added ingredients, smoother meltability, and higher sodium content.
Read the Label: The specific nutritional details can vary significantly between brands, so always check the product packaging.
Explore Alternatives: For healthier options, consider natural cheeses like Swiss or part-skim mozzarella, or plant-based substitutes.
Practice Moderation: Due to its calorie and fat density, it is best to consume processed cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Understanding the Calorie Count in Processed Cheese

Determining exactly how many calories are in a slice of American processed cheese can be tricky, as there isn't one universal answer. The calorie count depends on the brand, the size of the slice, and whether it's a 'cheese product' or a 'cheese food'. Most standard-sized slices (around 3/4 ounce or 20 grams) fall into a fairly consistent range, making it a predictable addition to meals or snacks.

For example, popular brands like Kraft Singles are often cited with around 60 to 70 calories per slice, while other generic versions might have slightly more. The macronutrient distribution is generally consistent, with the majority of calories coming from fat, a moderate amount from protein, and very few from carbohydrates.

The Nutritional Landscape Beyond Calories

While the calorie count is a key metric for a nutrition diet, it's not the full story. A slice of American processed cheese also contributes other nutrients and components to your intake, both beneficial and less so. A typical nutritional breakdown per slice includes:

Fat: Processed cheese is a significant source of fat, particularly saturated fat. This can contribute a large percentage of a person's daily recommended saturated fat intake.
Sodium: A notable component of processed cheese is its high sodium content. The emulsifying salts and other additives used in processing substantially increase the sodium level, which is a consideration for those monitoring blood pressure.
Protein: Each slice offers a modest amount of protein, an essential macronutrient for muscle repair and overall bodily function.
Calcium: On the positive side, American cheese is often fortified with calcium, making it a good source of this mineral for bone health.
Other vitamins and minerals: It may also contain smaller amounts of vitamins A and D, and minerals like phosphorus and zinc.

Processed vs. Natural Cheese: A Calorie and Composition Comparison

For those on a nutrition diet, understanding the difference between processed and natural cheese is critical. Natural cheese is made directly from milk, while processed cheese is a blend of natural cheese with emulsifiers, oils, and other additives. This fundamental difference impacts their nutritional profiles, calorie density, and overall health implications.


Feature	American Processed Cheese (approx. per 1 oz slice)	Natural Cheddar Cheese (approx. per 1 oz slice)	Natural Swiss Cheese (approx. per 1 oz slice)
Calories	60-75	~114	~111
Sodium	High (~240-470 mg)	Lower (~190 mg)	Lowest (~54 mg)
Saturated Fat	High (3-5g)	High (5g)	High (5g)
Protein	Moderate (~3-5g)	Higher (~6g)	Higher (~8g)
Ingredients	Blended natural cheeses, emulsifiers, oils, additives	Primarily milk, enzymes, salt	Primarily milk, enzymes, salt
Meltability	Melts smoothly and uniformly due to emulsifiers	Melts but can separate more easily	Melts well with distinct characteristics

As the table illustrates, while American processed cheese might have a slightly lower calorie count per standard slice size compared to denser natural cheeses like cheddar or swiss, it is considerably higher in sodium. The trade-off is often higher protein and fewer additives in natural cheeses.

Making Healthier Choices with Cheese

For those watching their calorie and saturated fat intake, moderation is key when it comes to any type of cheese. Here are some strategies for a balanced approach:

Portion Control: Instead of multiple slices, using just one or even half a slice can provide the desired flavor without excess calories and sodium.
Opt for Natural Cheeses: If you prefer a richer, more complex flavor, consider natural cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, or provolone. A little bit of a stronger-flavored cheese can go a long way.
Choose Lower-Fat Varieties: Many cheese brands offer low-fat or reduced-fat options that can significantly decrease your calorie and saturated fat intake. Part-skim mozzarella and low-fat cottage cheese are excellent examples.
Explore Plant-Based Alternatives: For those with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet, there are many plant-based cheeses available. Alternatives made from cashews, almonds, or nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor with different nutritional benefits.
Use Cheese as a Flavor Accent: Instead of a main ingredient, use cheese sparingly as a garnish to add flavor to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. Cheeses with stronger flavors, like sharp cheddar or blue cheese, allow you to use less.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a slice of American processed cheese typically contains between 60 and 75 calories, with brands and sizes causing slight variation. While it can be a quick and convenient source of calcium, its high levels of saturated fat and sodium are important to consider within a balanced diet. Individuals managing their nutrition, particularly those concerned with sodium and fat intake, should be mindful of portion sizes or explore alternatives like natural, lower-fat, or plant-based cheeses. For specific dietary guidance, it is always best to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional. With careful choices, cheese can be an enjoyable part of a healthy eating plan.

Key Takeaways for Your Diet

Know the Calorie Range: A standard slice of American processed cheese typically contains 60-75 calories.
Check the Label: Always review the nutrition facts on the specific brand you are buying, as calories and sodium can vary.
High Sodium Content: Be mindful of the high sodium in processed cheese, especially if you have concerns about blood pressure.
Consider Alternatives: Explore natural cheeses like Swiss or low-fat options and plant-based substitutes for potentially healthier profiles.
Practice Moderation: Portion control is key to fitting processed cheese into a balanced diet without exceeding daily limits for fat and sodium.

Frequently Asked Questions

The calorie difference can vary based on the manufacturer, but 'American cheese food' and 'American cheese product' can have different compositions. Products labeled as 'cheese food' contain at least 51% actual cheese, whereas 'cheese product' can have less and may include more additives, potentially affecting the calorie count per serving.

A standard slice of American processed cheese typically has fewer calories than a standard 1 oz slice of natural cheddar cheese. However, a slice of natural cheddar often contains more protein and has less sodium, making the nutritional trade-offs important to consider.

While processed American cheese does contain protein, it is not a primary source. A slice provides a modest amount, typically 3-5 grams, which is less than what you would find in an equal serving of many natural cheeses like Swiss or cheddar.

Calorie variation in processed cheese is influenced by the weight of the slice, the amount of fat used, and the other non-cheese ingredients included. Different brands use varying proportions of milk solids, oils, and emulsifiers, all of which affect the final nutritional content.

Yes, processed cheese is relatively high in saturated fat. This is an important consideration for individuals looking to manage their intake of saturated fats as part of a heart-healthy diet.

Yes, healthier substitutes include natural cheeses like part-skim mozzarella, Swiss, or feta, as well as plant-based alternatives made from nuts or nutritional yeast. These options often contain less sodium and different fat profiles.

As a calorie-dense food, consuming processed cheese in excess can contribute to weight gain, particularly if it replaces lower-calorie, nutrient-rich foods. Portion control is essential for incorporating it into a balanced diet.

The high sodium content in processed cheese comes from salt used for flavor and preservation, as well as emulsifying salts (like sodium citrate or polyphosphates) added during processing to achieve its uniform, smooth texture and meltability.