Processed cheese Facts for Kids

Different kinds of processed cheese

Processed cheese is a special type of dairy product. It is made by mixing regular cheese with other ingredients. These can include other dairy products, things that help mix ingredients (called emulsifiers), salts, and food colorings. Sometimes, whey (a liquid part of milk) is also added.

The Story of Processed Cheese
- Who Invented Processed Cheese?
- Processed Cheese Around the World
Why Choose Processed Cheese?
Images for kids
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The Story of Processed Cheese

Who Invented Processed Cheese?

The very first processed cheese was created in 1911. A man named Walter Gerber made it in Thun, Switzerland. This cheese is still sold today under the name Gala.

Processed Cheese Around the World

Processed cheese quickly became popular. In Germany, the first processed cheese was made in 1922. It was called Adler, which means "Eagle" in German. Around the same time, a company called Fromageries Bel launched La vache qui rit. This famous cheese is still enjoyed today. In Austria, processed cheese called Alma first appeared in 1921.

Why Choose Processed Cheese?

Processed cheese has several benefits compared to regular cheese. These advantages make it a popular choice for many people.

Longer Freshness

Processed cheese stays fresh for a longer time. This is called a longer shelf-life. It means you can keep it in your fridge for more days.

Using All the Good Bits

Cheesemakers can use leftover pieces from making other cheeses. This helps to reduce waste.

Better Melting Control

Processed cheese melts more smoothly. Regular cheese can sometimes separate into fat and protein when heated. Processed cheese is designed to melt evenly.

Fewer Flavor Choices

One small difference is that processed cheese usually has fewer flavors. Regular cheese comes in many more varieties.

Images for kids

A processed cheese spread containing chili paste
A slice of processed cheese
American cheese is a processed cheese. Pictured here in a single wrapped slice.
A gift pack containing several varieties of labeled process cheese. Upper left: a "pasteurized process cheese food" and a "pasteurized processed cheese spread" Upper center: a "pasteurized process cheese spread Havarti-type flavor" Lowermost right: a "pasteurized process cheese food with jalapeño peppers"
A 1948 U.S. advertisement for an American pasteurized cheese food
Easy Cheese, a pasteurized process cheese spread product, on a pretzel
Velveeta