Calories in American Cheese: Nutrition Facts & Serving Sizes
Per 1 oz
Per 100g
Source: USDA FoodData Central, Foundation, March 2026.
American cheese is a processed cheese product made from a blend of natural cheeses, emulsifying salts, and milk solids. One 1 oz slice (28g) contains 105 calories, 4.9g of protein, 8.7g of fat, and 1.8g of carbs. Per 100g it provides 375 calories, 17.5g of protein, and 31.1g of fat. The standout nutritional feature is calcium at 508mg per 100g, which is among the highest of any common food. Phosphorus is also strong at 380mg per 100g. However, American cheese is very high in sodium at 1600mg per 100g and contains 17.7g of saturated fat per 100g. It is processed and typically contains emulsifiers, making it nutritionally different from natural cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. Zinc at 2.5mg per 100g supports immune function and testosterone levels.
Nutrition Highlights
Calories by Serving Size
| Serving | Cal | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 oz | 105 | 4.9g | 1.8g | 8.7g | 0g |
| 100g | 375 | 17.5g | 6.4g | 31.1g | 0g |
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Full Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 375 | 19% |
| Protein | 17.5g | 35% |
| Total Fat | 31.1g | 40% |
| Saturated Fat | 17.7g | 89% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.4g | 2% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | |
| Sugars | 0g | |
| Sodium | 1600mg | 70% |
Vitamins & Minerals (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Saturated Fat | 17.7g | 6% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 0% |
| Calcium | 508mg | 39% |
| Iron | 0.2mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 173mg | 4% |
| Magnesium | 25mg | 6% |
| Phosphorus | 380mg | 30% |
| Zinc | 2.5mg | 23% |
% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA reference).
Health Benefits of American Cheese
American cheese provides meaningful amounts of calcium and protein in a convenient, melt-friendly format that is widely available. Calcium at 508mg per 100g is exceptional and directly supports bone density, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling. A single slice covers nearly a quarter of the daily calcium requirement, which is useful for anyone who struggles to meet calcium targets.
Phosphorus at 380mg per 100g works alongside calcium to build and maintain bone and teeth structure. Zinc at 2.5mg per 100g supports immune function, wound healing, and testosterone production, all of which are relevant for active adults.
Protein at 17.5g per 100g (4.9g per slice) contributes to muscle protein synthesis and satiety. American cheese melts exceptionally well, making it practical for adding protein and calories to burgers, sandwiches, and egg dishes during a bulk or for hitting calorie targets.
The key consideration is sodium. At 1600mg per 100g, a single slice contributes 448mg of sodium, which is about 20% of the daily recommended limit. For athletes sweating heavily, some sodium replacement is beneficial. For those managing blood pressure or following a low-sodium diet, intake should be moderated carefully.
Dietary Considerations
American cheese is gluten-free and suitable for lacto-vegetarian diets. It is not vegan, paleo, or dairy-free. The high saturated fat content at 17.7g per 100g and trans fat at 1g per 100g make it a food to consume in moderation, particularly for those managing cardiovascular health. The carb content is low at 6.4g per 100g with no sugar, making it workable for keto and low-carb diets, though the high sodium must be factored in. American cheese is best treated as a convenient, calorie-adding ingredient rather than a health food consumed in large amounts.
Daily Intake (100g)
100g of american cheese provides 19% of a 2,000-calorie diet.
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Restaurant Meals with American Cheese
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories in American cheese?
American cheese contains 375 calories per 100g. A standard 1 oz slice (28g) has about 105 calories.
Is American cheese good for weight loss?
American cheese is calorie-dense and high in fat, so it should be eaten in controlled portions during a cut. One slice at 105 calories can fit into a weight loss diet, but it adds up quickly if you are not tracking.
How much protein in American cheese?
American cheese contains 17.5g of protein per 100g. One 1 oz slice provides about 4.9g of protein, which is a modest but meaningful contribution to your daily protein target.
Is American cheese real cheese?
American cheese is a processed cheese product, not a natural cheese. It is made from a blend of natural cheeses mixed with emulsifying salts and other dairy ingredients. It is legally required to be labeled as a pasteurized process cheese.
Is American cheese keto-friendly?
Yes. American cheese has only 6.4g of carbs per 100g and no sugar, making it compatible with ketogenic diets. One slice contributes about 1.8g of carbs.
How does American cheese compare to cheddar?
American cheese has 375 calories per 100g while cheddar has 403. American cheese has more sodium (1600mg vs roughly 621mg per 100g for cheddar) and is more processed. Cheddar is a natural cheese with a cleaner ingredient list.
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