Both American cheese and cheddar cheese are widely used in our daily life. So what’s the difference between them?
Cheddar is an aged English cheese while American cheese is a smooth and creamy processed cheese. Cheddar contains more milk than American cheese, but American cheese is less expensive than cheddar.
More differences and facts are below, if you are curious about it, just keep reading.
History
British colonists in America produced American cheese at first, and by the 1970s, it was being exported back to England.
The Somerset, England, village of Cheddar is where cheddar cheese first appeared. Since at least the 12th century, it has been made there.
Production
Food coloring, flavorings, emulsifiers, salt, whey, milk, and milk and whey proteins are all ingredients in the production of American cheese. To solidify, the mixture is poured into molds after being heated and blended with emulsifiers (such as potassium phosphate, sodium, or citrate). To stop the separation of the ingredients, a stabilizing agent, such as polysaccharide xanthan gum, is occasionally added.
Cheddar cheese is made with cow’s milk. After being heated, the curd is mixed with salt, then stacked and turned after being cut into cubes to drain the whey. It is then matured at a constant temperature, e.g. in caves, for 3 to 18 months.
Traits
The texture of American cheese is supple and creamy. A variety of cheeses can be added to enhance its flavor because it is typically bland. It comes in a variety of hues, including yellow, white, and orange. Although it melts easily and has a mild scent, it is difficult to burn. Its shelf life is very long (12–15 years).
Cheddar cheese has a strong flavor and is hard to chew. Its natural color ranges from pale yellow to off-white, although some manufacturers color the cheese with a brighter yellow. It crumbles just a little bit.
Uses
The most popular dishes in America that use American cheese are hamburgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and cheese dips.
In the US and the UK, cheddar cheese is by far the most consumed type of cheese. Countless different recipes call for it.
Nutritional Info
The nutritional values of cheddar and american cheese are marginally different. Despite having no added sugar and being good sources of calcium and iron, both are also very high in saturated fat and sodium. The amount of calories in cheese depends on the type of milk used (fat or non-fat).
| American Cheese (per 100g) | Cheddar Cheese (per 100g) | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 336 | 403 |
| Calcium | 57% of daily intake | 95% of daily intake |
| Iron | 3% of daily intake | 5% of daily intake |
| Fat | 26g | 33g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g | 21g |
| Cholestrol | 82mg | 105mg |
| Sodium | 1297mg | 612mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 7g |
| Protein | 19g | 25g |
Is Cheddar Healthier?
The nutritional value of cheddar and American cheese is similar. However, cheddar is denser and contains more vitamins and amino acids. American cheese is higher in minerals, including 2x sodium — thus salty! Therefore, those with high blood pressure may not want to choose it.
Additionally, the trans fat and lactose content of American cheese are higher. It has been suggested that 12.5% of the approved additives including preservatives and emulsifiers may pose an adverse reaction to some people in long term.
A healthier choice is probably cheddar. Whenever possible, choose premium cheddar brands like Cabot, Tillamook, and Kellygold. Instead of buying pre-grated or pre-shredded cheddar, opt for cheese blocks or wedges because those options frequently contain starch, cellulose, preservatives, and anti-microbials.
Substitutes
American cheese can be substituted with Cheddar or Swiss cheese (to add more flavor).
Colby, Cheshire, or American cheese can be used in its place if you don’t have access to cheddar.
Price
American cheese in its basic yellow form costs about $5.99 per pound. A pound of cheddar currently costs between $4.99 for mild cheddar and $21.99 for extra-sharp 12 year cheddar, though cheese prices vary.
Conclusion
American cheese and cheddar cheese are different in history, production, traits and nutrition. Cheddar is a healthier choice compared with American cheese because American cheese contains too much sodium.
Related Reading
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Gorgonzola vs. Blue Cheese: What Is the Difference
Neufchâtel Cheese vs. Cream Cheese: What’s the Difference?
FAQs
Is Cheddar Cheese the Same as American Cheese?
American and cheddar cheeses might look similar, but they are not the same. Cheddar is “real” cheese, made from 100 percent cow’s milk that’s been coagulated with rennet, an enzyme that separates curds from whey. The only other ingredients that may be added to cheddar cheese are salt and food coloring.
Is American or Cheddar Cheese Better on a Burger?
American cheese melts beautifully on a burger. American cheese is usually processed but shares a similar flavor profile to colby jack or mild cheddar. How do you decide on cheddar vs American cheese for burgers? American is a little smoother and saltier than cheddar cheese.
