If you're looking for a quick and easy snack, a slice of American cheese might be just what you need. At only 40 calories per slice, it's a low-calorie option for when you're feeling hungry.
But what about the nutritional content? Let's take a closer look.
In this article, we'll explore the calorie, fat, carb, and protein content of a slice of American cheese, as well as its calcium, sodium, and vitamin content. We'll also discuss the presence of trans fat and cholesterol in American cheese and the potential benefits and risks of including it in your diet.
Calories in a Slice of American Cheese
As we mentioned earlier, a single slice of American cheese contains 40 calories. While this may not seem like much, it can add up if you're eating multiple slices at once.
How Much Fat is in an American Cheese Slice?
Each slice of American cheese contains 3.5 grams of fat, including 2 grams of saturated fat. This makes up 5% and 10% of your daily recommended intake, respectively.
Are There Any Carbs in American Cheese Slices?
American cheese slices are low in carbohydrates, with only 1 gram per slice. This makes them a good option for those following a low-carb diet.
Protein Content in One Slice of American Cheese
Each slice of American cheese contains 2 grams of protein. While this may not seem like much, it can be a good source of protein if you're including multiple slices in a meal.
Does American Cheese Slice Contain Calcium?
Each slice of American cheese contains around 20 milligrams of calcium, making up 2% of your daily recommended intake. While this isn't a lot, it can still contribute to your overall calcium intake.
Sodium Amount in One Slice of American Cheese
One slice of American cheese contains 180 milligrams of sodium, which is 8% of your daily recommended intake. While this may not seem like much, it can add up if you're eating multiple slices at once.
Vitamins in American Cheese Slice
American cheese slices contain small amounts of vitamins, including vitamin A and vitamin D. While these vitamins are important for overall health, you're unlikely to get a significant amount from a single slice of cheese.
How Many Calories from Fat in American Cheese Slice?
Of the 40 calories in a slice of American cheese, 31 come from fat. This means that around 78% of the calories in a slice of cheese come from fat.
Trans Fat and Cholesterol in American Cheese
Trans fat is a type of unhealthy fat that is found in many processed foods, including American cheese. While the amount of trans fat in a single slice is small, it's still important to be mindful of your intake. Additionally, American cheese is relatively high in cholesterol, with a single slice containing around 10% of your daily recommended intake.
Benefits and Risks of Eating American Cheese Slices
While American cheese slices can be a tasty snack or ingredient in a meal, they should be consumed in moderation due to their high fat and sodium content. Additionally, their potential trans fat and cholesterol content may make them a less healthy option than other cheeses. However, if consumed in moderation, American cheese slices can be part of a healthy diet.
5 FAQs About American Cheese
1. What is American cheese?
American cheese is a processed cheese that is made from a blend of milk, whey protein concentrate, milk fat, and other ingredients such as emulsifiers and stabilizers. It is typically mild in flavor and has a smooth, creamy texture that makes it a popular choice for sandwiches and burgers.
2. Is American cheese healthy?
American cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems. It also contains artificial ingredients that some people may want to avoid. However, as with any food, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
3. Can American cheese be melted?
Yes, American cheese is known for its excellent melting properties. It can be used to make gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, creamy mac and cheese, and other comforting dishes that require melted cheese.
4. How should American cheese be stored?
American cheese should be kept in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below. It can be wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
5. What are some ways to use American cheese?
Aside from the classic grilled cheese sandwich, American cheese can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be melted on top of burgers, added to omelettes, used in quesadillas, and even incorporated into casseroles and soups for a boost of creaminess.