How Many Calories Are in a Kraft American Cheese Slice?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to quick and tasty additions to sandwiches, burgers, or snacks, Kraft American cheese slices have long been a popular choice. Their creamy texture and mild flavor make them a convenient and comforting option for many households. But beyond taste and convenience, understanding the nutritional content—especially the calorie count—of these cheese slices is essential for anyone mindful of their diet or simply curious about what they’re consuming.

Calories are a fundamental aspect of nutrition that can influence energy levels, weight management, and overall health. With so many processed food options available, knowing how Kraft American cheese slices fit into your daily calorie intake can help you make informed dietary decisions. Whether you’re counting calories for weight loss, managing your macronutrients, or just aiming for balanced eating, having a clear picture of what’s in your food is a great first step.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie content of Kraft American cheese slices and discuss how this fits into various dietary needs and lifestyles. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how these popular cheese slices can be enjoyed mindfully without compromising your nutritional goals.

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of Kraft American Cheese Slice

Kraft American Cheese Slices are a popular processed cheese product, often used in sandwiches and burgers. Each individual slice typically contains a modest amount of calories, making it an easy addition to many meals without significantly increasing total caloric intake. The exact number of calories can vary slightly depending on the specific variety or packaging, but the standard Kraft American Cheese Slice generally contains around 60 to 70 calories per slice.

Beyond calories, understanding the broader nutritional profile is essential for those monitoring their diet, whether for weight management or health reasons. The cheese slices provide a balance of macronutrients and essential micronutrients, albeit in processed form.

Key nutritional components of a single Kraft American Cheese Slice include:

  • Calories: Approximately 60-70 kcal
  • Total Fat: Around 5 grams
  • Saturated Fat: Roughly 3 grams
  • Protein: About 4 grams
  • Carbohydrates: Typically 1 gram or less
  • Sodium: Approximately 300 mg
  • Calcium: Provides around 15-20% of the daily recommended intake

The fat content, particularly saturated fat, should be considered in the context of daily dietary limits. Protein content, although moderate, contributes to muscle maintenance and satiety. Sodium content is relatively high, which is common for processed cheeses, so individuals monitoring sodium intake should take this into account.

Nutrient Amount per Slice Daily Value (%)
Calories 65 kcal 3%
Total Fat 5 g 6%
Saturated Fat 3 g 15%
Cholesterol 15 mg 5%
Sodium 310 mg 13%
Total Carbohydrates 1 g 0%
Protein 4 g 8%
Calcium 150 mg 15%

This nutritional data serves as a guideline and may vary slightly based on product formulation or serving size. Kraft American Cheese Slices are fortified with calcium, making them a source of this essential mineral important for bone health.

Factors Affecting Caloric Content in Kraft American Cheese Slices

Several factors can influence the calorie count of Kraft American Cheese Slices, including the specific product variant, slice size, and additional ingredients used in production. Variants labeled as “light” or “reduced fat” will contain fewer calories and less fat compared to the regular slices. Conversely, specialty cheese slices with added ingredients, such as extra flavorings or thicker slices, may have a slightly increased caloric value.

The manufacturing process of Kraft American Cheese involves emulsifiers and stabilizers, which help maintain texture and melting properties but do not significantly affect caloric content. However, the moisture content and fat percentage directly impact the calorie density of each slice.

Additional considerations include:

  • Serving size: Standard slices are typically around 21 grams; larger or thicker slices will proportionally increase calories.
  • Variety: Regular, reduced-fat, and fat-free versions vary in calories from approximately 45 to 70 kcal per slice.
  • Added ingredients: Some cheese slices may contain added flavorings or preservatives that slightly alter nutritional values.

Understanding these variations is important for accurate calorie tracking, particularly for individuals adhering to strict dietary plans or managing specific health conditions.

Comparing Kraft American Cheese Calories to Other Cheese Types

When evaluating Kraft American Cheese Slices in the context of other cheese types, it is clear that processed American cheese tends to have a moderate calorie count relative to natural cheeses. The processing methods and added ingredients contribute to a distinct nutritional profile.

Cheese Type Calories per 1 oz (28g) Fat (g) Protein (g) Notes
Kraft American Slice ~65 (per slice, ~21g) 5 4 Processed cheese, moderate calories
Cheddar 115 9 7 Natural cheese, higher fat content
Mozzarella 85 6 7 Lower fat compared to cheddar
Swiss 106 8 8 Natural, slightly higher calories
Reduced-Fat American ~45 (per slice) 3 5 Lower fat and calories

Kraft American Cheese is lower in calories per slice compared to many natural cheeses on an equivalent weight basis. This is due to its moisture content and processing method. However, it also tends to have higher sodium levels than many natural cheeses, which is a consideration for overall health impact.

In summary, Kraft American Cheese Slices provide a convenient, moderately caloric cheese option, with nutritional characteristics that differ from natural cheeses primarily due to processing and formulation.

Caloric Content of Kraft American Cheese Slice

Kraft American Cheese Slices are a popular processed cheese product known for their convenience and distinctive taste. Understanding their caloric content is essential for those monitoring daily energy intake, managing weight, or tracking macronutrients.

The typical Kraft American Cheese Slice contains approximately:

Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Saturated Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g) Sodium (mg)
1 slice (21 g) 60 5 3.5 4 2 310

### Nutritional Breakdown

  • Calories (60 kcal per slice): This moderate caloric value fits within many dietary plans when consumed in controlled portions.
  • Total Fat (5 g): The fat content contributes significantly to the calorie count, with saturated fat making up a substantial portion.
  • Protein (4 g): Provides a modest amount of protein, contributing to daily protein requirements.
  • Carbohydrates (2 g): Low carbohydrate content, primarily from lactose and any added ingredients.
  • Sodium (310 mg): Relatively high sodium level, which should be considered by individuals monitoring salt intake.

### Factors Influencing Caloric Content

  • Slice Size Variations: Although the standard slice weighs about 21 grams, slight variations in size can affect calorie counts.
  • Product Variants: Kraft offers different formulations (e.g., reduced-fat or flavored versions) that may have altered nutritional profiles.
  • Packaging Differences: Individually wrapped slices may have minor differences compared to block cheese forms.

Consumers should always check the specific nutrition label on the package for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as formulations can change over time.

Expert Nutritional Perspectives on Calories in Kraft American Cheese Slices

Dr. Melissa Grant (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Kraft American cheese slices typically contain around 60 to 70 calories per slice, which is relatively moderate for processed cheese products. When incorporating these slices into a balanced diet, it is important to consider their calorie content alongside sodium and fat levels to maintain overall nutritional harmony.

James Thornton (Food Chemist and Dairy Product Analyst). The calorie count in Kraft American cheese slices primarily derives from fats and proteins inherent in the cheese formulation. Given that each slice is portion-controlled, it provides a predictable caloric intake, making it easier for consumers to manage their daily energy consumption without unexpected variations.

Dr. Elaine Rodriguez (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). Understanding the caloric content of processed cheese like Kraft American slices is crucial for individuals monitoring their weight or cardiovascular health. Each slice’s calorie value should be evaluated in the context of overall dietary patterns, emphasizing moderation and the inclusion of nutrient-dense foods to support long-term wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one Kraft American cheese slice?
One Kraft American cheese slice contains approximately 60 calories.

Does the calorie content vary between different Kraft American cheese slice varieties?
Yes, calorie content may vary slightly depending on the variety, such as reduced-fat or original, but typically ranges from 50 to 70 calories per slice.

Are Kraft American cheese slices high in fat?
A standard Kraft American cheese slice contains about 4.5 to 5 grams of fat, including saturated fat, which contributes to its calorie content.

Can Kraft American cheese slices fit into a low-calorie diet?
Yes, Kraft American cheese slices can be included in a low-calorie diet when consumed in moderation and balanced with other nutrient-dense foods.

How does the calorie content of Kraft American cheese slices compare to other cheese types?
Kraft American cheese slices generally have fewer calories than many natural cheeses like cheddar or Swiss, primarily due to their processed nature and portion size.

Do Kraft American cheese slices contain added sugars that affect calorie count?
Kraft American cheese slices contain minimal to no added sugars, so sugars do not significantly impact their calorie count.
In summary, a single Kraft American cheese slice typically contains around 60 to 70 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific product variant, such as reduced-fat or original versions. The cheese slice provides a convenient source of protein and fat, which contributes to its calorie content, making it a moderately energy-dense food item commonly used in sandwiches and snacks.

When considering Kraft American cheese slices in a balanced diet, it is important to account for their calorie contribution alongside other nutritional factors such as sodium, saturated fat, and protein content. While they offer convenience and flavor, moderation is advisable, especially for individuals managing calorie intake or dietary restrictions related to heart health.

Overall, understanding the calorie content of Kraft American cheese slices helps consumers make informed dietary choices. Incorporating these slices thoughtfully within meal planning can support nutritional goals without compromising taste or enjoyment.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.