Ingredient

Processed Cheese

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Source

Animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Manufacturers use processed cheese for its smooth texture, meltability, and consistent flavor. It is …

What it is

Processed cheese is a food product made from one or more cheeses, blended with emulsifiers, and sometimes other ingredients like salt, colors, and preservatives. It is heated to a specific temperature to create a smooth, uniform texture and to prevent oil separation. This process results in a product that is more stable and has a longer shelf life than natural cheese.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use processed cheese for its smooth texture, meltability, and consistent flavor. It is often added to sauces, dips, spreads, and as a topping for dishes like nachos or burgers. Its stability makes it ideal for applications where natural cheese might separate or become oily.

Health notes

Processed cheese is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. It is a source of calcium and protein. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various cheese products and their components. While generally considered safe in typical amounts, some processed cheeses can be high in sodium.

Allergen info

Processed cheese is derived from milk, which is one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Processed Cheese

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Weis Markets, Inc. Potatoes Au Gratin Frozen Prepared Sides High in sodium — 26% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 127kcal 4Protein 6Fat 13.3Carbs HAITAI CONFECTIONERY & FOODS CO.,LTD. Haitai, Biscuit, Flour Sarubia Cracker Crackers & Biscotti 450kcal 10Protein 14.3Fat 73.3Carbs The Kroger Co. Bacon & Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese Sauce, Bacon & Aged Cheddar Prepared Pasta & Pizza Sauces High in sodium — 35% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving 210kcal 3.2Protein 17.7Fat 11.3Carbs Chica Bella, Inc. Mild Beer Flavored Cheese Spread, Mild Beer Cheese High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 267kcal 16.7Protein 23.3Fat 10Carbs The Kroger Co. Truffle & Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese Sauce, Truffle & Aged Cheddar Prepared Pasta & Pizza Sauces High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving 210kcal 4.8Protein 17.7Fat 8.1Carbs The Kroger Co. Roasted Poblano & Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese Sauce, Roasted Poblano & Aged Cheddar Prepared Pasta & Pizza Sauces High in sodium — 25% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving 210kcal 3.2Protein 17.7Fat 9.7Carbs Glencourt Inc. Cheesy Scramble Scrambled Egg Whites With Cheddar, Monterey Jack Cheeses And Roasted Potatoes, Cheesy Scramble Frozen Breakfast Sandwiches, Biscuits & Meals High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 96kcal 7.0Protein 3.2Fat 10.7Carbs Glencourt Inc. Ham & Cheese Scramble Scrambled Egg White Product With Ham, Roasted Potatoes, Cheddar, And Monterey Jack Cheese, Ham & Cheese Scramble Frozen Breakfast Sandwiches, Biscuits & Meals High in sodium — 34% DV per serving 107kcal 8.1Protein 4.1Fat 9.6Carbs Cook-N-Throw, Inc. White Cheddar Flavor Snax Pea Crisps, White Cheddar Chips, Pretzels & Snacks 450kcal 20Protein 20Fat 50Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.