American Cheese
American cheese is a 'pasteurized process cheese' or 'pasteurized process cheese food' regulated under FDA standards of identity. It contains added emulsifying salts (often sodium phosphates or sodium citrate) and is high in sodium and saturated fat.
What it is
Processed cheese product made by blending natural cheeses with emulsifiers, milk solids, and other ingredients.
Melting cheese for sandwiches and burgers; provides creamy texture.
Why it's flagged
- high sodium
- high saturated fat
- contains phosphate emulsifiers
- milk allergen
What regulators actually say
"Pasteurized process cheese is the food prepared by comminuting and mixing, with the aid of heat, one or more cheeses with an emulsifying agent."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Standardized under 21 CFR 133.169-133.180 (pasteurized process cheese)
European Union — EFSA
Permitted processed cheese product
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