American Cheese slices or American Cheese Singles are a staple for lovers of burgers and cheese sandwiches.
Velveeta and Kraft singles are popular options – but is there a difference? If yes, what is it? And is one of the options superior to the other?
In this article, I will introduce both options and answer a few common questions people have. Ultimately, you will know the difference between Velveeta and Kraft Singles and which is better shortly.
Velveeta Slices
Velveeta Cheese was invented in 1918 by the “Monroe Cheese Company.” A few years later, in 1923, this cheese got its own company called “The Velveeta Cheese Company.” In 1927, the company was bought by Kraft Foods, which is why many people think that Velveeta and Kraft Singles are the same.
But they are not.
For one, Velveeta cheese was the first cheese to be certified by the American Medical Association. By now, the ingredient list had changed from when the AMA gave this seal – so do not mistake these for healthy food!
You can buy Velveeta Slices on Amazon and in many supermarkets and superstores.
You can also buy Velvetta blocks and create your own slices if you prefer a thinner or thicker cut.
What are the Ingredients in Velveeta Slices?
The ingredient list of Velveeta Slices is milk, water, whey, milk protein concentrate, milkfat, whey protein concentrate, sodium phosphate, and 2% or less of salt, calcium phosphate, lactic acid, sorbic acid, sodium citrate, sodium alginate, enzymes, apocarotenal, annatto, and cheese culture.
What are Velveeta Slices Nutrition Facts?
These are the nutrition facts for one serving of Velveeta Slices.
| Calories | 60.0 |
| Total Fat | 4.0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.0 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.0 g |
| Cholesterol | 15.0 mg |
| Sodium | 300.0 mg |
| Potassium | 0.0 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 2.0 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 2.0 g |
| Protein | 4.0 g |
Are Velveeta Slices Real Cheese?
It would be more appropriate to call them a cheese-based product (look at the ingredient list above, and you will understand why). On the box they are called “Pasteurized Recipe Cheese Product”, Velveeta Slices are made from Whey, Milk, and Milk Protein Concentrate.
Are Velveeta Slices Bad for You?
Velveeta Slices are highly processed, so they are not particularly healthy. This does not mean you can’t eat them at all. Just enjoy them responsibly. Real cheese is a healthier option to get better nutrients! In my opinion I like real cheese more too.
How Long Do Velveeta Slices last?
The shelf life of Velveeta Slices is usually around six months when the product is not opened. You will often see Velveeta cheese products on a shelf and not refrigerated at a grocery store, but the Velveeta slices are recommended to be refrigerated and not frozen. You will aslo see a “Best Before Date” listed on the products box.
Are Velveeta Slices Vegetarian?
No. You might be surprised to learn that Velveeta Slices are unsuitable for vegetarians as they are made with animal-derived enzymes. If yo are a vegetarian you should not eat Velveeta Cheese products.
Kraft Singles
Kraft Singles came on the market a lot later than Velveeta Slices. Kraft Singles were “invented” in 1950. Keep in mind that Kraft, by then, had already purchased the Velveeta Cheese Company and was familiar with Velveeta Slices.
An interesting fact is that the FDA does not allow Kraft Singles to be sold as “Pasteurized Processed Cheese,” so Kraft is selling them as so-called “Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product.”
In 1992, Kraft ran into some legal problems because of their advertising.
You can conveniently purchase Kraft Singles on Amazon.
You can also order a bulk pack with more slices for your enjoyment if you want a lot.
What are the Ingredients in Kraft Singles?
Kraft Singles ingredients are: Milk, Whey, Water, Milk Protein Concentrate, Sodium Citrate, Contains Less than 2% of Milkfat, Calcium Phosphate, Salt, Gelatin, Sodium Phosphate, Lactic Acid, Sorbic Acid as a Preservative, Cheese Cultures, enzymes, Annatto and Paprika Extract (Color), Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3.
What are Kraft Singles Nutrition Facts?
These are the nutrition facts for one serving of Kraft Singles.
| Calories | 66.0 |
| Total Fat | 4.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.8 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.2 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 16.0 mg |
| Sodium | 275.0 mg |
| Potassium | 59 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 1.3 g |
| Protein | 3.6 g |
Are Kraft Singles Real Cheese?
Kraft Singles are considered a Pasteurized Process Cheese Food product, so they are a cheese-based product, just not called real cheese. Kraft Singles are made with real milk, the first ingredient is Cheddar cheese (cultured milk, salt, enzyhmes), then skim milks and milk fat. So they do have similar cheese ingredients, but they are not to be marketed as real cheese.
Are Kraft Singles Bad for You?
They aren’t healthy, and as a processed food, you could call them “bad,” but as long as you enjoy them in moderation, you can safely consume them as part of your diet. Adding real cheese to your diet may be a good alternative to Kraft Singles!
How Long Do Kraft Singles last?
The expiry date of Kraft Singles is usually 5 to 6 months after its production. It is recommended to keep Kraft Singles refrigerated and once opened they may not last as long.
Are Kraft Singles Vegetarian?
Just like Velveeta Slices, Kraft Singles are NOT vegetarian as they contain cheese cultures produced with animal enzymes. If you are a vegetarian avoid eating Kraft Singles.
Comparison Questions (Velveeta vs Kraft Singles):
Do Velveeta or Kraft Singles Last Longer?
They both have similar expiration dates, so there is no difference. It is recommended to keep both slices and singles in the refrigerator for freshness.
Are Velveeta or Kraft Singles More Affordable?
Kraft Singles are often found to be more expensive when found in grocery stores. Let’s look at a cost per slice comparison:
| Product | Slices | Cost Per Slice |
| Velveeta Slices Original | 24 | $0.149 |
| Kraft Singles | 24 | $0.207 |
Which has more Calories – Velveeta Slices or Kraft Singles?
Kraft Singles has 10% more calories than Velveeta Slices. One serving of Kraft Singles has 66 calories, while one serving of Velveeta Slices has 60 calories.
Are Velveeta or Kraft Singles More Environmentally Friendly?
There is not much of a difference between these two products when it comes to their negative impact on animals and the planet mainly because both are owned by Kraft foods.
Are Velveeta or Kraft Singles gluten-free?
Yes, Velveeta Cheese and Kraft Singles are both gluten-free. So if you have a Gluten sensitivity eating these cheese alternatives should be fine. Feel free to ask your doctor if these products will cause you any health related issues.
Related Questions
Are Velveeta Slices and Kraft Singles the Same?
While they are very similar and are both produced and sold by Kraft Foods, they are not quite the same. Velveeta Slices are sweeter, while Kraft Singles have more calories.
Can Velveeta Slices or Kraft Singles be Frozen?
On the label of each product it says they are not recommended to be frozen. For best quality, avoid freezing Kraft singles and Velveeta Slices.
How Long Can Velveeta Slices or Kraft Singles be left out?
You should store both products in a refrigerator, but they can safely be left out at room temperature for up to four hours. It is better always to put them away when you are done with them. The sooner the better with most foods.
The Verdict – Which Is Better? Velveeta Slices vs Kraft Singles
While there is little difference between Velveeta and Kraft Singles, Velveeta is the more popular choice due to its slightly sweeter taste and creamier texture.
It is not a surprise; after all, Velveeta has been on the cheese market for over 100 years. Kraft may have bought them, but the people behind Velveeta still do their job well.
Remember that neither cheese slice is a healthy option, so you should see them as a treat instead of a daily staple.
