Understanding the American Cheese Landscape
Before determining who makes the healthiest American cheese, it's crucial to understand what distinguishes processed American cheese from its natural counterparts. While natural cheeses like cheddar or Swiss are made simply from milk, salt, and enzymes, processed American cheese is a blended product. The FDA designation allows for the addition of emulsifying salts and other ingredients to create its signature melt and long shelf-life. This process often results in higher sodium and the inclusion of preservatives that are not found in natural cheese. However, American cheese can be a good source of calcium, protein, and sometimes fortified with Vitamin D. The "healthiest" choice, therefore, depends on what you prioritize: fewer additives, lower sodium, or organic sourcing.
Key Factors for Choosing a Healthier American Cheese
When evaluating different brands, consider the following nutritional and production factors to make an informed choice:
- Read the Ingredient List: A shorter ingredient list is almost always better. High-quality processed cheese starts with natural cheese and adds minimal emulsifiers and preservatives. Avoid products with a long list of chemical-sounding additives.
- Check the Sodium Content: Processed cheeses are typically high in sodium, but some brands have developed lower-sodium versions. Compare the nutrition labels and opt for the one with the lowest percentage of the Daily Value (DV) for sodium.
- Prioritize Organic: Choosing organic brands, such as Trader Joe's or Organic Valley, can help you avoid milk from cows treated with antibiotics or synthetic hormones. Organic products often use natural colorings and fewer preservatives.
- Go for Deli-Sliced: Generally, deli-sliced American cheese is less processed and contains fewer additives than the pre-packaged, individually wrapped singles found in the refrigerated aisle. Deli versions from brands like Boar's Head or Land O'Lakes can be a better choice.
- Compare Saturated Fat: While American cheese is known for its high fat content, brands vary. Look at the saturated fat content per serving and choose a brand that offers a lower percentage if you are watching your intake.
Healthiest American Cheese Brands Compared
| Brand | Type | Key Health Benefit | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boar's Head Low-Sodium | Deli-sliced | Up to 36% lower sodium and 33% lower fat than regular American cheese. | Still a pasteurized process cheese, not natural cheese. |
| Trader Joe's Organic Singles | Individually wrapped singles | Made with organic milk and fewer preservatives than conventional singles. | Individually wrapped form, which some prefer to avoid. |
| Land O'Lakes 30% Less Sodium | Deli-sliced | Made with sea salt and contains 30% less sodium than regular deli American cheese. | Contains emulsifiers, but a significant sodium reduction. |
| Organic Valley American | Sliced/Deli | Organic ingredients and fewer preservatives than conventional brands. | Potentially more expensive per slice than other options. |
| Sargento Natural American | Sliced | Uses 100% natural cheese with just five ingredients. | May be harder to find and can still have higher sodium than low-sodium processed options. |
The Healthiest American Cheese Winner: Boar's Head Low-Sodium
When scrutinizing the options, Boar's Head offers the strongest claim for the healthiest American cheese due to its specifically formulated low-sodium and low-fat version. Its deli-sliced format also means it typically contains fewer additives than pre-packaged singles. For those who prioritize organic ingredients, Trader Joe's and Organic Valley offer excellent choices with a cleaner ingredient list. However, if your primary health concern is reducing sodium without sacrificing that classic American cheese melt, the Boar's Head low-sodium product is the most direct solution.
The Case for Alternatives
If you're willing to step outside the processed cheese aisle, you can find even healthier alternatives that still provide a satisfying melt for sandwiches and burgers. Many natural cheeses are significantly lower in sodium and contain fewer additives.
- Swiss Cheese: A single slice of Swiss cheese is famously much lower in sodium than American cheese, with a nutty flavor that can stand in for a richer, more complex taste.
- Natural Cheddar: Opt for a mild or young cheddar for a melt similar to American cheese. Brands like Sargento and Organic Valley offer natural cheddar that can be sliced fresh and are minimally processed.
- Mozzarella: With lower calories and sodium than most cheeses, part-skim mozzarella is a great option for sandwiches and burgers, and its fresh taste is a definite plus.
Conclusion
While a definitive single answer to "who makes the healthiest American cheese?" is subjective, the data points clearly toward a few top contenders. For those seeking the classic processed texture with significant health improvements, Boar's Head's Lower Fat & Lower Sodium American Cheese stands out due to its notable reductions in sodium and fat. If your priority is avoiding additives, Trader Joe's Organic Singles or Organic Valley American are your best bet. Ultimately, checking the ingredient list and comparing nutritional facts is the most reliable way to find the product that aligns with your specific health goals. For more in-depth nutritional comparisons of cheeses, check out this guide from Healthline.
A Final Word on Moderation
Regardless of the brand, American cheese is a dense food in terms of calories, fat, and sodium. The healthiest approach is always to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. By being a savvy consumer and reading labels, you can make a choice that is best for your health without completely giving up this American classic.
