5 Best Low-Sodium American Cheese Brands
In a world where heart health and dietary considerations take center stage, finding low-sodium alternatives to our favorite foods becomes paramount.
For cheese enthusiasts, American cheese holds a special place in many culinary creations, from classic grilled cheese sandwiches to mouthwatering burgers. However, the high sodium content of some American cheese brands can pose a challenge for those aiming to reduce their sodium intake.
So, what brands offer the best low-sodium American Cheese slices? There are, unfortunately, very few American cheese products specifically labeled as “low-sodium.” So we had to go digging a bit for this one.
Your best options include products from brands like Organic Valley, Land O Lakes, and Horizon, to name a few. But always check the nutrition label on the back of the cheese to make sure the sodium content meets your needs.
Join us on this flavorful journey as we explore the finest options to savor the rich and creamy goodness of American cheese without compromising on heart-healthy choices.
What Is American Cheese?
American cheese is a processed cheese product that is widely popular in the United States and beyond.
It has a mild and creamy flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes, particularly sandwiches, burgers, and grilled cheese.
American cheese is known for its smooth and consistent texture, making it easy to melt, making it a favorite for melting over burgers and other hot dishes.
The process of making American cheese starts with blending different types of natural cheeses, such as cheddar, Colby, or jack, with other ingredients like emulsifiers, salts, and stabilizers.
This blend is heated and mixed until it becomes a homogeneous and smooth cheese mass. The emulsifiers help bind the fat and protein together, giving American cheese its characteristic meltability and texture.
While American cheese is loved by many for its convenience and flavor, it has also received criticism for its high sodium and fat content and the use of artificial ingredients. As a processed cheese, it is generally not as nutritious as natural, unprocessed cheeses.
It’s worth noting that there are variations of American cheese available, such as white American cheese, which is made without artificial coloring, and low-fat or reduced-fat versions, which have a lower fat content but may contain higher levels of sodium to compensate for flavor.
Luckily, today we will specifically explore the best low-sodium American cheese brands and products out there.
How to Choose the Best Low-Sodium American Cheese Brands
Choosing the best low-sodium American cheese brands requires a careful evaluation of the product’s nutritional information and ingredient list. Here are some key factors to consider:
Sodium Content
Look for American cheese brands that explicitly state “low-sodium” or “reduced-sodium” on their packaging. Check the nutrition label to ensure that the sodium content per serving aligns with your dietary needs.
To put things into perspective, your average 28-gram slice (serving) of American cheese contains about 470mg of sodium.
Usually, “low-sodium” in American cheese is anything less than 300mg per serving. A number closer to 250mg of sodium is preferable.
Ingredients
Opt for brands that use natural and minimal ingredients. Avoid those with artificial additives, preservatives, or excessive emulsifiers, as they may contribute to higher sodium levels.
Cheese Blend
Some American cheese brands disclose the types of natural cheeses used in their blend. Choose brands that use high-quality cheeses with lower sodium content, like low-sodium cheddar or Colby.
Nutritional Profile
Consider the overall nutritional profile of the cheese, including fat and calorie content. Low-sodium cheese should ideally have lower fat and calorie levels as well.
Organic and Non-GMO
If possible, select organic or non-GMO American cheese brands, as they tend to have cleaner ingredient profiles and may offer healthier options.
Taste and Texture
Taste and texture preferences vary among individuals. Consider sampling different brands to find one that suits your taste and culinary needs.
5 Best Low-Sodium American Cheese Brands
Let’s take a look at the best brands that offer American cheese products. As always, our list includes a variety of options that cater to different budgets, dietary needs, and preferences.
| Rank | Brand | Key Feature |
| 1. | Organic Valley Premium Organic American Cheese Slices | Organic Valley Organic American Cheese Slices has a low-sodium content of 270mg per serving, providing a delicious and nutritious addition to your favorite dishes. |
| 2. | Land O Lakes Sliced White Deli American Cheese | Land O Lakes Sliced White Deli American Cheese offers a delicious and versatile option for sandwiches and burgers, with each 23-gram slice only containing 250mg of sodium. |
| 3. | Kraft Singles American Cheese Slices 2% Milk | Kraft Singles American Cheese Slices offer a reduced-fat option with only 220mg of sodium per 19-gram slice. |
| 4. | Horizon Organic Sliced Cheese American | Horizon Organic Sliced Cheese American offers a low-sodium option, with only 240mg of sodium per 19-gram slice, making it a health-conscious choice for cheese lovers. |
| 5. | Dietz & Watson American White Cheese | Dietz & Watson American White Cheese offers a creamy and flavorful option with only 280mg of sodium per 17-gram slice, making it a great choice for those seeking low-sodium cheese. |
1. Organic Valley Premium Organic American Cheese Slices
Organic Valley Premium Organic American Cheese Slices offer a delicious and nutritious option with a low-sodium content of 270mg per serving.
Made from organic cultured milk and just six wholesome ingredients, these cheese slices are free from toxic pesticides, synthetic hormones, antibiotics, preservatives, and GMOs.
Crafted with care from pasture-raised cows, they provide a rich, mellow flavor that both kids and moms love.
Indulge in creamy, cheesy goodness in your favorite dishes, such as cheeseburgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, while enjoying the benefits of organic, high-quality ingredients.
2. Land O Lakes Sliced White Deli American Cheese
Land O Lakes Sliced White Deli American Cheese is a versatile and tasty choice for deli sandwiches, grilled cheese, and burgers.
With only 70 calories per serving, it offers a good source of protein and calcium, benefiting the whole family.
Each 23-gram slice contains 250mg of sodium, relatively low for American cheese in general.
Overall, this product provides a convenient and delicious option for classic American cheese lovers, while also offering essential nutrients for a balanced diet.
3. Kraft Singles American Cheese Slices 2% Milk
Kraft Singles American Cheese Slices 2% Milk offers a classic flavor with the advantage of reduced fat content.
With only 220mg of sodium per 19-gram slice, they present a low-sodium option suitable for those watching their salt intake.
Made with 2% milk, each slice contains just 45 calories, making them a guilt-free and delicious choice for a variety of dishes.
Whether it’s topping cheeseburgers or enhancing deli sandwiches, Kraft Singles American Cheese Slices 2% Milk delivers a satisfying taste while being mindful of sodium levels for a healthier and enjoyable dining experience.
4. Horizon Organic Sliced Cheese American
Horizon Organic Sliced Cheese American is a delightful choice for cheese enthusiasts looking for a low-sodium option.
With only 240mg of sodium per 19-gram slice, it is a favorable choice for those aiming to reduce their sodium intake.
The organic nature of the product adds an extra appeal, ensuring a higher quality and more natural ingredient profile.
This sliced cheese offers the convenience of being ready to use, making it easy to brighten up any dish with its creamy and flavorful texture.
5. Dietz & Watson American White Cheese
Dietz & Watson American White Cheese stands out with its low-sodium content of 280mg per 17-gram slice, making it an excellent choice for those watching their sodium intake.
Crafted by their master cheese maker, this premium sliced artisan white American cheese promises a deliciously creamy taste and texture.
Moreover, the product offers various benefits such as being gluten-free, nitrate-free, MSG-free, soy-free, and trans-fat-free, catering to individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences.
With just 60 calories per serving and 3g of protein, it makes for a nutritious addition to sandwiches and snacks.
