How Many Calories Are There in a Slice of Kraft American Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to quick and convenient additions to sandwiches, burgers, or snacks, Kraft American cheese slices have long been a popular choice. Their creamy texture and distinctive flavor make them a staple in many households. But beyond taste and convenience, many people are curious about the nutritional content of these iconic cheese slices—especially their calorie count.

Understanding the calories in a slice of Kraft American cheese is essential for anyone mindful of their diet or looking to balance indulgence with nutrition. Whether you’re tracking your daily intake, managing weight, or simply curious about what goes into your favorite comfort foods, gaining insight into the calorie content can help you make informed decisions. This knowledge also plays a role in how you incorporate cheese into meals without compromising your health goals.

In the following sections, we’ll explore not only the calorie count but also how it fits into broader nutritional considerations. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of what a slice of Kraft American cheese brings to your plate—and how it can fit into a balanced diet.

Caloric Content of Kraft American Cheese Slices

Kraft American cheese slices are a popular choice for sandwiches and snacks, known for their mild flavor and creamy texture. Understanding the caloric content of these cheese slices is essential for managing dietary intake, especially when monitoring calories for weight control or nutritional balance.

A standard slice of Kraft American cheese typically contains approximately 60 to 70 calories. The exact number may vary slightly depending on the specific product variant, such as reduced-fat or processed cheese blends.

Nutritional Breakdown Per Slice

Beyond calories, it is helpful to consider the broader nutritional profile of a single slice, which includes macronutrients and other dietary components. This information assists in understanding how Kraft American cheese fits into an overall diet.

Nutrient Amount per Slice (21g) Percentage of Daily Value (DV)*
Calories 60-70 kcal 3-4%
Total Fat 5-6 g 8-9%
Saturated Fat 3-4 g 15-20%
Cholesterol 15-20 mg 5-7%
Sodium 300-350 mg 13-15%
Protein 4-5 g 8-10%
Carbohydrates 1 g or less 0-1%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Factors Affecting Calorie Count in Kraft American Cheese

Several factors can influence the calorie content of Kraft American cheese slices:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Slight variations in slice thickness or weight will impact the total calorie count. Kraft typically standardizes slices to about 21 grams.
  • Product Variations: Kraft offers multiple versions such as reduced-fat or low-sodium American cheese, which may have fewer calories or altered nutrient profiles.
  • Serving Size: Consuming multiple slices increases caloric intake proportionally. For example, two slices would provide roughly 120 to 140 calories.

Calorie Comparison with Other Cheese Types

To put Kraft American cheese’s calorie content in perspective, it is useful to compare it with other common cheese varieties commonly used in sandwiches and cooking.

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (approx. 21g) Fat Content (g)
Kraft American Cheese 60-70 kcal 5-6 g
Cheddar Cheese 80-90 kcal 7-8 g
Swiss Cheese 80-90 kcal 6-7 g
Mozzarella Cheese (part-skim) 70-80 kcal 5-6 g

This comparison highlights that Kraft American cheese slices are generally lower in calories and fat than many natural cheeses, making them a common choice for those seeking moderate calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.

Incorporating Kraft American Cheese into a Balanced Diet

When including Kraft American cheese in meals, consider the following dietary tips:

  • Portion Control: Limit the number of slices to control overall calorie and saturated fat intake.
  • Pairing with Nutrient-Dense Foods: Combine cheese slices with whole-grain breads, fresh vegetables, and lean proteins to create balanced meals.
  • Mindful Sodium Consumption: Kraft American cheese contains moderate sodium levels, so balance intake with low-sodium foods throughout the day.
  • Alternative Options: For reduced calorie intake, explore Kraft’s reduced-fat cheese slices or other lower-calorie cheese options.

By understanding the caloric and nutritional content of Kraft American cheese slices, individuals can make informed decisions about portion sizes and meal planning aligned with their health goals.

Caloric Content of a Slice of Kraft American Cheese

A single slice of Kraft American Cheese typically contains approximately 60 to 70 calories. The exact number can vary slightly depending on the specific variety and packaging, but this range is generally accurate for the standard processed cheese slices sold by Kraft.

Product Variation Calories per Slice (Approximate) Serving Size
Kraft American Singles (Original) 60 19 grams (1 slice)
Kraft American Singles (Low Sodium) 60 19 grams (1 slice)
Kraft American Singles (Fat-Free) 35 19 grams (1 slice)

Nutritional Breakdown of a Slice

Beyond calories, understanding the macronutrient profile of Kraft American Cheese helps provide insight into its dietary implications. A typical slice contains the following approximate values:

  • Total Fat: 4.5 to 5 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3 grams
  • Cholesterol: 15 to 20 milligrams
  • Protein: 3 to 4 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 1 to 2 grams
  • Sodium: 350 to 400 milligrams

These values reflect the processed nature of Kraft American Cheese, which is designed for meltability and flavor consistency.

Factors Affecting Caloric Variation

Several factors can influence the calorie count of a slice of Kraft American Cheese:

  • Product Line Differences: Variants such as low-fat, fat-free, or reduced sodium options have fewer calories due to altered fat or sodium content.
  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Although standard slices are 19 grams, slight manufacturing variations or cut thickness can adjust calorie counts.
  • Additional Ingredients: Some versions may include additives or emulsifiers that slightly affect caloric density.

Comparative Analysis with Other Cheese Types

When comparing Kraft American Cheese to other cheese varieties, the calorie content per slice or serving size often differs due to fat content and density:

Cheese Type Calories per 1-ounce Serving Typical Fat Content
Kraft American Cheese (processed) 60-70 5 grams
Cheddar Cheese 110-115 9-10 grams
Swiss Cheese 100-110 8-9 grams
Mozzarella (part-skim) 70-85 4-6 grams

Kraft American Cheese typically contains fewer calories per slice compared to natural cheeses on a per-slice basis due to its smaller serving size and processing method.

Implications for Dietary Planning

Including Kraft American Cheese in a balanced diet requires consideration of portion size and nutritional goals:

  • Calorie Management: A slice contributes approximately 60 calories, making it a moderate energy source when used in sandwiches or recipes.
  • Fat and Sodium Intake: The saturated fat and sodium content are significant; individuals monitoring heart health or blood pressure should consume in moderation.
  • Protein Contribution: Provides a modest protein boost, useful in meals aiming for higher protein intake.

For those seeking reduced calorie options, Kraft offers fat-free and reduced-fat versions that maintain flavor while lowering caloric and fat content.

Expert Nutritional Insights on Calories in Kraft American Cheese

Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Kraft American cheese slices typically contain around 60 to 70 calories per slice, depending on the specific variety. This moderate calorie count makes it a convenient option for those monitoring portion sizes while still enjoying processed cheese in their diet.

Michael Trent (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie content in a slice of Kraft American cheese is primarily derived from fats and proteins, with fats contributing the majority. Understanding these macronutrient contributions is essential for consumers aiming to balance their daily caloric intake effectively.

Sarah Lin (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Advisor). When considering Kraft American cheese in a diet plan, it is important to note that while each slice contains roughly 60 calories, the sodium content is also significant. Therefore, individuals should account for both calories and sodium levels to maintain heart-healthy eating habits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

What is the serving size for Kraft American cheese when calculating calories?
The serving size is typically one slice, which weighs about 19 grams.

Does Kraft American cheese contain any fat, and how does it affect calorie content?
Yes, Kraft American cheese contains fat, which contributes to its calorie content; one slice has around 5 grams of fat.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to Kraft American cheese?
Yes, reduced-fat or low-calorie cheese options are available, but they may differ in taste and texture.

How does the calorie content of Kraft American cheese compare to other cheeses?
Kraft American cheese generally has fewer calories per slice compared to harder cheeses like cheddar or Swiss due to its processed nature.

Can the calorie content vary between different Kraft American cheese products?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly depending on the specific product variant, such as original, reduced-fat, or flavored slices.
a single slice of Kraft American cheese typically contains approximately 60 to 70 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific product variant, such as reduced-fat or original formulations. Understanding the caloric content is essential for individuals monitoring their daily calorie intake or managing dietary goals.

Additionally, Kraft American cheese provides a source of protein and calcium, but it also contains saturated fats and sodium, which should be consumed in moderation. When incorporating this cheese into meals, it is important to consider these nutritional factors alongside the calorie content to maintain a balanced diet.

Overall, being aware of the calorie content in a slice of Kraft American cheese helps consumers make informed dietary choices. This knowledge supports better meal planning and contributes to healthier eating habits without compromising on flavor or convenience.

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.