The Truth Behind Deli Sliced American Cheese: Is It Real Cheese?

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Is deli sliced American cheese real cheese? This question plagues many cheese lovers and food enthusiasts, particularly when they visit the deli counter of their favorite grocery store. While deli sliced American cheese may appear and taste familiar, the answer is not straightforward. Let’s dive into the world of process cheese and explore what makes deli sliced American cheese unique.

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Is Deli Sliced American Cheese Real Cheese?

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It is… kinda…

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When we think of American cheese, the image that often comes to mind is the individually wrapped singles that melt perfectly in pizza or on grilled cheese sandwiches. However, deli sliced American cheese is not quite the same. While it is cheese, it is a special type of cheese that has been processed to create a product that melts evenly without separating into components like fats and oils.

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Legal Classification: Cheese Product

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From a legal standpoint, deli sliced American cheese falls under the category of “Cheese Product”. The term refers to cheese that has been processed to maintain meltable properties and uniform texture. This classification is due to the addition of ingredients like milk proteins, whey, and emulsifiers, which contribute to its unique qualities.

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Flavor and Quality Differences

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The flavor and quality of deli sliced American cheese can vary significantly from the individually wrapped singles that many people are familiar with. While deli sliced American cheese offers a consistent melting experience, the taste can be quite different. In fact, there is a world of difference in flavor between deli sliced American cheese and the standard packaged variety.

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Composition and Melting Properties

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To understand why deli sliced American cheese is a unique type of cheese, it is important to explore its composition. Process cheese, like deli sliced American cheese, is made from a minimum of 51% real cheese. This means that while it does contain real cheese, it is mixed with one or more kinds of milk proteins, whey, and emulsifiers. These ingredients contribute to its smooth melting properties and consistent flavor.

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The resulting product is designed for even melting without separating. This makes process cheese highly versatile and suitable for various cooking applications, from grilled cheese sandwiches to mac and cheese. However, this process also means that the flavor may not match the sharp, distinct taste of real cheese.

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Official Classification and Terminology

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The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has strict guidelines for labeling cheese products. According to the FDA, “American Cheese Slices” are 51% real cheese. However, products like “American Slices,” “Singles,” or “Sandwich Slices” must not contain the word ‘cheese’ unless they meet the 51% real cheese requirement.

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This distinction is important for consumers who are looking for natural, high-quality cheese products. When shopping for cheese in the deli section, it is essential to read the labels carefully to understand what you are purchasing.

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Conclusion

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So, is deli sliced American cheese real cheese? Technically, yes, but with some reservations. It is cheese that has been processed to enhance its melting properties, making it a versatile and convenient ingredient for many recipes. However, its unique composition means that it may not be the best choice for those seeking the sharp, intense flavors of real cheese.