It is a common saying to call American Cheese fake. But what does that mean? Does it mean that American Cheese is not made from dairy and can therefore be consumed by vegans? Not so fast.
American cheese is made from a blend of cheeses, or a blend of milk, cream, and sometimes water, which are then mixed with salt and colorings. The mixture is then heated and processed until it becomes a smooth, pliable paste.
While it is highly processed to the point it is sometimes called “fake cheese”, it is still real cheese.
Despite the popular saying about American cheese being fake, that does not mean that there is no dairy in American cheese – it usually contains milk, cream, and other dairy products. Therefore, traditional American cheese is not vegan, but vegan alternatives are available!
In this article, we explore:
- How American Cheese Is Made
- Do You Know What’s In Your American Cheese? (Ingredient Breakdown)
- The Best Vegan American Cheeses on the Market!
- The Bottom Line
1. How American Cheese Is Made
American cheese is processed cheese made from a blend of natural cheeses, emulsifiers, and other additives.
It has a characteristic yellow color and mild flavor and is typically used as a sandwich filling or in processed foods such as macaroni and cheese.
The main difference between American cheese and other types of cheese is the addition of emulsifiers, which help to create a smooth, spreadable texture. American cheese also contains more moisture than other types of cheese, which makes it easier to melt.
In terms of production, American cheese is made by blending natural cheeses with emulsifiers and other additives. The mixture is then heated and stirred until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Once the desired texture is achieved, the cheese is cooled and packaged for sale.
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2. Do You Know What’s In Your American Cheese? (Ingredient Breakdown)
Let’s look at the ingredient list for one of the most popular brands of this product, Kraft Singles American Cheese Slices. You can see the animal-derived ingredients highlighted in bold. Let’s break them down below.
MILK, CHEDDAR CHEESE (MILK, CHEESE CULTURE, SALT, ENZYMES), WHEY, MILK PROTEIN CONCENTRATE, MILKFAT, CALCIUM PHOSPHATE, SODIUM PHOSPHATE, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, WHEY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE, SALT, LACTIC ACID, ANNATTO AND PAPRIKA EXTRACT (COLOR), NATAMYCIN (A NATURAL MOLD INHIBITOR), ENZYMES, CHEESE CULTURE, VITAMIN D3.
Milk provides the base for American cheese and cheese products in general.
The Cheddar Cheese component gives the cheese its characteristic flavor and texture.
Whey is a byproduct of cheese making. It contains lactose, protein, and minerals. Whey is added to American cheese to provide structure and body.
Milk Protein Concentrate is a dried form of milk that contains higher levels of protein than regular milk. It is added to American cheese to increase its protein content.
Milk fat is the main source of fat in American cheese. It gives the cheese its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Calcium Phosphate is added to American cheese to help with coagulation. It also helps the cheese retain its shape and prevents it from drying out.
Sodium Phosphate is added to American cheese to control acidity and prevent spoilage.
Modified Food Starch is added to American cheese to improve its texture and consistency.
Whey Protein Concentrate is a dried form of whey that contains higher levels of protein than regular whey.
Lactic Acid is added to American cheese to control acidity and prevent spoilage.
Annatto and Paprika Extract are added to American cheese for color.
Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor that is added to American cheese to prevent spoilage.
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3. The Best Vegan American Cheeses on the Market!
When it comes to vegan American cheese, there are a few brands that really stand out.
Follow Your Heart’s Dairy-Free American Slices
Follow Your Heart’s Dairy-Free American Slices are one of the best on the market, offering a realistic texture and flavor that’s close to the real thing. Made from a blend of soy and coconut oil, these slices have a realistic melt and a sharp, savory flavor. They’re also free from common allergens like gluten and nuts.
Ingredients:
Filtered Water, Coconut Oil, Modified Potato and Corn Starches, Potato Starch, Sea Salt, Natural Flavor, Olive Extract, Paprika Extract and Beta Carotene for Color.
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Daya’s American Style Slices
Daya’s American Style Slices are a great option for those looking for a vegan American cheese alternative. Made from potato starch, coconut oil, and other plant-based ingredients, these slices have a creamy texture and sharp flavor that is reminiscent of traditional American cheese. They’re also free from common allergens like gluten and nuts, making them a great option for those with food allergies or sensitivities.
Ingredients:
Filtered Water, Potato Starch, Coconut Oil, Expeller Pressed: Canola and/or Safflower Oil, Salt, Tricalcium Phosphate, Vegan Natural Flavors, Pea Protein, Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid (Vegan), Konjac Flour, Fruit and/or Vegetable Juice Color, Annatto Color, Vegan Enzyme, Vitamin B12.
For vegans looking for an American cheese alternative, these two products are definitely worth trying. Whichever brand you choose, you’ll be sure to enjoy the delicious taste of vegan American cheese.
4. The Bottom Line
American cheese is made from a blend of cheeses, or a blend of milk, cream, and sometimes water, which are then mixed with salt and colorings. The mixture is then heated and processed until it becomes a smooth, pliable paste. While it is highly processed to the point it is sometimes called “fake cheese”, it is still real cheese.
There are a few brands that make vegan American cheese, and it is made from plant-based ingredients like coconut oil and potato starch. Follow Your Heart’s Dairy-Free American Slices and Daya’s American Style Slices are two of the best options available. These cheeses have a realistic texture and flavor that is close to the real thing. They are also free from common allergens like gluten and nuts.
So if you’re looking for a vegan alternative to American cheese, be sure to try one of these products. Whichever brand you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the delicious taste of vegan American cheese.