Velveeta is a processed cheese product that comes in several formats including blocks, slices, and liquid. The liquid Velveeta cheese is a popular choice for making dips, sauces, and macaroni and cheese. Consumers often wonder about the ingredients that go into this smooth, creamy, and melty cheese product.
Overview of Velveeta
Velveeta is a brand name of processed cheese product owned by Kraft Foods. It was introduced in 1918 and originally made from a blend of different cheeses. Over the years, the formulation has changed to include other ingredients that help create its smooth, creamy texture and melting properties.
While regular block Velveeta is a cheese product made with real cheese, the Velveeta liquid cheese product does not contain as much real cheese. It has more added emulsifiers, thickeners, and whey protein concentrate to create a smooth liquid that melts uniformly.
Ingredients in Velveeta Liquid Cheese
According to the ingredient list on the Velveeta website, these are the ingredients contained in Velveeta liquid cheese:
Milk
The first ingredient listed is milk. This provides the dairy component to the cheese product. Different forms of milk ingredients are used including milk protein concentrate and whey protein concentrate.
Vegetable Oil
Liquid vegetable oils like canola, palm, and soybean oil are added. This contributes to the smooth, liquid texture of the product.
Cheese Culture
Cheese cultures are added to provide some real cheese flavor. The cultures are live bacteria that ferment and acidify the cheese to create tanginess.
Salt
Salt is added both for flavor as well as preservation.
Whey
Whey is a byproduct of cheesemaking. Whey protein concentrates act as thickeners and binders.
Milk Protein Concentrate
Milk protein concentrates add more protein from milk and help provide structure.
Sodium Phosphate
Sodium phosphates are emulsifying salts that help create a smooth texture and help the cheese melt uniformly.
Calcium Phosphate
Calcium phosphate is another emulsifying salt that helps consistency.
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is produced by the cheese cultures and helps provide tangy flavor.
Color and Flavor Additives
Natural and artificial color and flavor ingredients are added such as apocarotenal (orange coloring), annatto (yellow coloring), paprika oleoresin, and enzymes.
Preservatives
Preservatives like sorbic acid and sodium citrate are used to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 is added to replace the naturally occurring vitamin D that is lost during processing.
Nutrition Facts
Here is the nutrition information for a 1/4 cup (59g) serving of Velveeta liquid cheese product:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 90 |
Total Fat | 7g |
Saturated Fat | 4.5g |
Trans Fat | 0g |
Cholesterol | 15mg |
Sodium | 450mg |
Total Carbohydrate | 3g |
Dietary Fiber | 0g |
Total Sugars | 2g |
Added Sugars | 0g |
Protein | 5g |
Vitamin D | 0.1mcg |
Calcium | 150mg |
Iron | 0mg |
Potassium | 70mg |
As you can see from the nutrition label, a serving of Velveeta liquid cheese is high in saturated fat (4.5g) and sodium (450mg) which is typical for processed cheese products. It provides calcium but is low in other nutrients. The ingredients help create the smooth, creamy texture but also add sodium, preservatives, and thickeners.
Common Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Velveeta liquid cheese:
Is Velveeta cheese real cheese?
Velveeta is considered a “pasteurized prepared cheese product” rather than real natural cheese. It starts with some cheese components like milk protein and whey protein. But oils, emulsifiers, thickeners, and other ingredients are added during processing to create the smooth texture.
Is Velveeta cheese healthy?
While it contains some protein and calcium, Velveeta liquid cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium so it is not considered the healthiest choice. It is very processed and contains artificial ingredients. Real cheeses contain less additives and preservatives.
What is the purpose of the ingredients like sodium phosphate?
Ingredients like sodium phosphate help emulsify the oils and create a uniform, stable texture that melts smoothly when heated. The lack of real cheese components is why extra thickeners and emulsifiers are needed.
How long does opened Velveeta liquid cheese last?
Once opened, it should be used within 3-4 weeks when refrigerated. Make sure to seal the package tightly. Signs it has spoiled are mold, odd textures or smells. Discard if expiration date passes. The refrigerator prevents bacterial growth.
Can Velveeta liquid cheese be frozen?
Yes, it can be frozen to extend the shelf life. Freeze it in the original packaging or an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface. Thaw in the refrigerator before using. It may separate after thawing but will re-emulsify when reheated.
Conclusion
Velveeta liquid cheese is a highly processed cheese sauce product that combines milk ingredients, oils, thickeners, emulsifiers, and other additives to create a creamy texture for dips, cooking, and sauces. It is quick melting and smooth but not as natural as real cheese products. Understanding the ingredients list helps explain the smooth consistency but higher amounts of fat, salt and preservatives compared to natural cheeses. Check labels to see nutrition facts and ingredients when deciding if it fits your dietary needs. Proper refrigerated storage can extend the shelf life for several weeks after opening.