Kraft offers a wide variety of cheese products, and the calorie content differs significantly based on the type of cheese, its fat content, and the serving size. A single slice of American cheese is very different from a quarter-cup of shredded cheddar, so understanding these differences is key for managing your caloric intake.
Kraft Singles: The Iconic American Slice
Kraft Singles are perhaps the most well-known product and come in several variations, each with a slightly different calorie count. The standard slice is a processed cheese food, and its calorie content is clearly labeled.
Regular American Singles
For a single slice of regular Kraft American Cheese Singles, the calorie count is typically around 50 to 60 calories, depending on the specific package and serving size. Most packages now indicate 50 calories per slice, a figure often cited on the company's product pages.
2% Milk American Singles
As a lighter alternative, Kraft offers American Singles made with 2% milk. These slices are a good option for those looking to reduce their fat intake, as they contain a lower calorie count. According to nutritional information, these slices have about 45 calories each.
Deli Deluxe Slices
Kraft Deli Deluxe American Cheese Slices are a different product with a more robust flavor and melt. A single slice of this variety contains approximately 70 calories, a bit more than the standard Singles.
Kraft Shredded Cheeses: A Culinary Staple
Kraft's shredded cheese blends are a kitchen essential for many recipes, from tacos to casseroles. The serving size for shredded cheese is typically a quarter cup, and the calories reflect the denser portion.
Shredded Cheddar
A standard 1/4 cup serving (28g) of Kraft Shredded Sharp Cheddar or Mild Cheddar Cheese contains around 110 calories. This provides a good source of calcium, often around 15-20% of the daily value.
Shredded Mexican 4 Cheese Blend
For those who prefer a blend, the Kraft Shredded Mexican 4 Cheese Blend has about 100 calories per 1/4 cup serving. This blend is a popular choice for adding a mix of flavors to dishes.
Other Popular Kraft Cheeses
Beyond slices and shredded varieties, Kraft produces many other cheese products that vary in calorie density.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: As a garnish, grated parmesan is used in much smaller quantities. A 2-teaspoon serving contains a mere 20 calories, making it a low-calorie way to add flavor.
- String Cheese: A Kraft Mozzarella String Cheese stick typically contains 80 calories per serving, offering a convenient, portion-controlled snack.
- Cream Cheese (Philadelphia): As a Kraft brand, Philadelphia cream cheese is a common household item. A 2-tablespoon serving of original cream cheese contains about 100 calories, though lower-fat and whipped versions are also available with fewer calories.
Comparison of Popular Kraft Cheeses
To make it easy to see the differences, here is a comparison table of some common Kraft cheese products based on their typical serving sizes.
| Product | Serving Size | Approximate Calories | Key Nutrients | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kraft Singles (American) | 1 slice (19-21g) | 50-60 | Calcium, Protein | |
| Kraft Singles (2% Milk) | 1 slice (19g) | 45 | Lower Fat | |
| Kraft Shredded Cheddar | 1/4 cup (28g) | 110 | Calcium, Protein | |
| Kraft Grated Parmesan | 2 tsp (5g) | 20 | Protein | |
| Philadelphia Cream Cheese (Original) | 2 tbsp (28g) | 100 | Fat | |
| Kraft Mozzarella String Cheese | 1 stick (28g) | 80 | Calcium, Protein | |
| Kraft Deli Deluxe (American) | 1 slice (19g) | 70 | Protein, Calcium |
Factors Influencing Kraft Cheese Calories
Several factors account for the variation in calorie counts across Kraft's cheese product line.
Ingredient Variations
The primary driver of calorie content in cheese is its fat content. Products like regular Kraft Singles and full-fat shredded cheeses naturally contain more fat and therefore more calories than their 2% milk or part-skim counterparts. For example, the fat content in a Kraft Singles 2% milk slice is lower, directly translating to fewer calories per serving.
Processing and Formulation
Processed cheese products, such as Kraft American Singles, are made with a combination of milk, dairy ingredients, emulsifiers, and other additives. These ingredients, particularly emulsifiers, alter the texture and calorie density. For instance, the use of emulsifiers and water content can influence the final caloric value per slice. The Kraft Heinz Company establishes specific nutritional targets for its product innovations, considering factors like fat, sugar, and sodium.
Serving Size
Always pay close attention to the designated serving size on the nutrition label. A 1/4 cup of shredded cheese is a very different portion size than a single slice of a processed cheese single. Consuming multiple slices or a larger portion of shredded cheese will increase the total calorie intake proportionally.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
Ultimately, the number of calories in Kraft cheese depends on the specific product and serving size. By reviewing the nutrition label for each item, you can easily find the precise calorie count and other nutritional information. Whether you prefer the classic melt of American Singles or the sharpness of shredded cheddar, being mindful of the serving size and type of cheese is the best approach for managing your diet. This awareness helps you enjoy your favorite foods while staying on track with your nutritional goals.
For more information on product nutrition, you can always visit the official Kraft Heinz website, which often provides nutritional details for specific items [https://www.kraftheinzcompany.com/].
