Understanding the Differences Between Kraft American Cheese and Cheddar Cheese
When comparing processed cheese products to traditional cheddar cheese, one of the most common questions consumers ask is whether Kraft American cheese is real cheddar. This article will explore the differences between these two types of cheese in detail, providing insights into their ingredients, characteristics, and culinary uses.
The Difference Based on Composition
While Kraft American cheese is often used in recipes similar to those calling for cheddar, it is not a true cheddar cheese. This processed cheese product is made through a blend of various ingredients, including milk whey protein concentrate, milk protein concentrate, salt, cheese culture, and artificial colors and flavors. In contrast, cheddar cheese is made from pure milk, rennet, and bacterial culture, often aged for months to develop its rich, tangy flavor and texture.
Cheddar Cheese Characteristics
Real cheddar cheese is known for its distinct tangy flavor and firm texture. The aging process, which can last from a few months to several years, adds complexity and depth to the cheese. Cheddar cheese can range from mild to sharp, depending on the aging time. Common varieties include colby, Monterey Jack, and various aged cheddars.
Kraft American Cheese Characteristics
Kraft American cheese, on the other hand, is a processed cheese product designed for its melting properties, making it ideal for recipes like grilled cheese sandwiches and macaroni and cheese. It has a milder, more uniform taste due to the combination of milk and various additives. The texture is typically softer and more uniform, lacking the distinct crystalline structure that cheddar cheese exhibits.
A Simple Test to Distinguish the Two
A straightforward way to determine if a cheese is true cheddar is to conduct a taste and texture test. Take a lump of the cheese, chew it vigorously, and hold it in your mouth for about two minutes. If the roof of your mouth remains smooth and comfortable, the cheese is likely Kraft American cheese. True cheddar cheese will leave a slight irritation in your mouth due to its crystalline structure.
Ingredients and Labeling
The ingredients list of Kraft American cheese further distinguishes it from real cheddar cheese. Key ingredients include milk whey protein concentrate, milk protein concentrate, salt, cheese culture, enzymes, and additives like modified food starch, lactic acid, and color agents. Real cheddar cheese would list milk as the first ingredient. The term "processed cheese product" on the label reinforces the fact that it is not a traditional cheese but a more versatile food product.
Popular Availability in Retail Stores
When shopping for cheese at a grocery store, you will notice that cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, swiss, and colby are readily available, while Kraft American cheese is not typically classified or labeled as such. The label often emphasizes terms like "cheese food" or "part-skim" to indicate its processed nature, rather than true cheese.
Conclusion
In summary, Kraft American cheese and cheddar cheese are distinct types of cheese, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Kraft American cheese, while delicious and versatile for certain recipes, is a processed cheese product, not a true cheddar. Understanding the differences between these two types of cheese can help consumers make more informed decisions when shopping for cheese in the supermarket or preparing dishes that require a specific type of cheese.