Understanding the Ingredients in Kraft American Cheese
Despite its highly processed nature, Kraft American cheese is unequivocally a dairy product. The confusion often arises from its unique manufacturing process and the fact that it is not considered a 'natural' cheese. However, a quick look at the ingredients list reveals several dairy-based components that confirm its status. For example, Kraft Singles, a popular form of American cheese, explicitly lists 'milk,' 'whey,' and 'milkfat' as primary ingredients. Other processed cheese products from Kraft may also contain 'milk protein concentrate,' further solidifying their dairy origins.
The perception that processed cheese is not 'real cheese,' and therefore might not be dairy, is a common misconception. While it's true that some processed cheese products contain less than 51% actual cheese and must be labeled differently by the FDA, they still include dairy components like milk proteins and whey. The added ingredients and emulsifiers are what give processed American cheese its smooth texture and exceptional meltability, but they do not remove the underlying dairy content.
How Processed Cheese Is Made
The manufacturing of processed American cheese involves combining natural cheeses (like cheddar or Colby) with other ingredients through a heating and emulsification process.
- Melting and Blending: Blocks of natural cheese are ground, melted, and blended together in large vats.
- Adding Emulsifiers: Ingredients like sodium citrate and sodium phosphate are added to prevent the fat and moisture from separating, ensuring a creamy, uniform texture.
- Including Dairy Byproducts: Additional dairy ingredients, such as milk, whey, or milkfat, are incorporated to achieve the desired consistency.
- Pasteurization and Molding: The mixture is heated to pasteurize it before being poured into molds or formed into individual slices.
This process, developed by James L. Kraft in 1916, was initially designed to extend the shelf life of cheese. While highly efficient, it does not strip the product of its fundamental dairy composition. The final product is a blend of dairy-based ingredients, making it unsuitable for a dairy-free diet.
Natural Cheese vs. Processed Cheese
When evaluating a dairy-free diet, understanding the difference between natural and processed cheese is crucial. Both start with dairy, but the manufacturing processes diverge significantly.
| Feature | Natural Cheese (e.g., Cheddar, Swiss) | Processed American Cheese (e.g., Kraft Singles) |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Made from 100% cow's milk, rennet, and cheese culture. | A blend of natural cheeses with added dairy ingredients like whey and milkfat. |
| Processing | Curing and aging, which naturally breaks down lactose. | Melting and blending with emulsifiers and stabilizers. |
| Melting Properties | Tends to separate into oil and solids when heated. | Melts smoothly and uniformly due to emulsifying salts. |
| Labeling | Labeled as "cheese" or "natural cheese." | Often labeled as "pasteurized process cheese food" or "prepared cheese product". |
| Lactose | Varies, with aged varieties being lower in lactose. | Contains lactose from added milk and whey. |
Finding a Truly Dairy-Free Alternative
For individuals with a dairy allergy or those following a vegan diet, avoiding all traditional American cheese is necessary. Fortunately, the market for dairy-free alternatives has expanded significantly. Kraft itself has partnered with NotCo to produce plant-based slices that mimic the taste and melt of their classic American cheese.
- Read Labels Carefully: Look for explicit 'dairy-free' or 'vegan' labels. Never assume a product is dairy-free because it's heavily processed.
- Check for Allergens: The ingredient list should clearly state 'contains: no milk' or list the alternative, such as soy or cashews.
- Explore Plant-Based Options: Brands beyond Kraft, using ingredients like soy, almond, and coconut oil, offer a variety of dairy-free cheese slices and shreds.
- Consult Nutritionists: If you have severe allergies, consulting a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian is always a safe measure to ensure proper dietary adherence.
Conclusion
In summary, the notion that Kraft American cheese is dairy-free is a myth. While its highly processed nature can cause confusion, the ingredients list confirms it is made using various dairy components, including milk, milkfat, and whey. For those with dairy sensitivities, allergies, or who follow a vegan diet, reading labels carefully and choosing explicitly labeled dairy-free or plant-based alternatives is essential. The modern food market offers excellent substitutes that can provide the same melty, comforting experience without the dairy.
What is the difference between real and fake American cheese?
The FDA defines "real" American cheese as a "pasteurized process cheese" containing at least 51% cheese. "Fake" or "cheese food" products contain less than 51% actual cheese and more added ingredients, though both contain dairy.
