Mac and cheese revolution: uncovering the truth behind the real cheese label
What To Know
- According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), cheese is defined as “the fresh or ripened product made from the curd obtained by coagulating the protein of milk, whey, or skim milk with rennet, enzymatic coagulation, or other suitable enzyme-type coagulating agents.
- Yes, you can make mac and cheese without processed cheese by using a béchamel sauce made with butter, flour, and milk, and then adding grated real cheese.
- While the pasta is cooking, make a béchamel sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk until the sauce thickens.
Mac and cheese, the beloved comfort food that brings joy to people of all ages, has sparked a long-standing debate: is it made with real cheese? This question has puzzled food enthusiasts and consumers alike, who crave the truth behind this culinary staple. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the intricacies of mac and cheese to determine if it truly deserves the title of “real cheese.”
The Ingredients of Mac and Cheese
To answer the question of whether mac and cheese contains real cheese, we must first examine its ingredients. The primary component of mac and cheese sauce is a blend of butter, flour, milk, and cheese. The type of cheese used can vary, but it is typically a processed cheese such as cheddar, American, or Velveeta.
What is Processed Cheese?
Processed cheese is a type of cheese that has been melted, emulsified, and blended with other ingredients such as emulsifiers, stabilizers, and coloring agents. This process creates a smooth, consistent texture that is ideal for sauces and spreads. While processed cheese does contain actual cheese, it is not considered to be “real cheese” in the traditional sense.
The Legal Definition of Cheese
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), cheese is defined as “the fresh or ripened product made from the curd obtained by coagulating the protein of milk, whey, or skim milk with rennet, enzymatic coagulation, or other suitable enzyme-type coagulating agents.” This definition excludes processed cheese, as it has been subjected to additional processing steps that alter its composition.
Is Mac and Cheese “Real Cheese” According to the FDA?
Based on the FDA’s definition, mac and cheese does not qualify as “real cheese” because it contains processed cheese instead of fresh or ripened curd. However, it is important to note that the FDA’s definition is primarily intended for labeling and regulatory purposes.
Consumer Perception of Mac and Cheese
Despite the technical definition, many consumers perceive mac and cheese as a cheesy dish. This perception is influenced by the presence of cheese in the sauce, as well as the overall flavor and texture. For many people, mac and cheese is a satisfying comfort food that evokes nostalgia and childhood memories.
The Benefits of Processed Cheese in Mac and Cheese
While mac and cheese may not contain “real cheese” in the traditional sense, processed cheese offers several benefits for this dish. It melts smoothly, creating a rich and creamy sauce that coats the pasta evenly. Additionally, processed cheese has a long shelf life, making it convenient for storage and preparation.
In a nutshell: A Tale of Two Perspectives
The question of whether mac and cheese is real cheese is ultimately a matter of perspective. According to the FDA, it does not meet the legal definition of cheese. However, consumers often perceive it as a cheesy dish due to its flavor and texture. Whether you consider mac and cheese to be “real cheese” or not, it remains a beloved comfort food that brings joy to people of all ages.
What People Want to Know
Q: What is the difference between real cheese and processed cheese?
A: Real cheese is made from fresh or ripened curd, while processed cheese has been melted, emulsified, and blended with other ingredients.
Q: Is mac and cheese healthy?
A: Mac and cheese is generally not considered a healthy food due to its high fat and sodium content. However, it can be made healthier by using whole-wheat pasta and low-fat cheese.
Q: What is the best cheese to use for mac and cheese?
A: The best cheese to use for mac and cheese is a matter of personal preference. Popular choices include cheddar, American, and Velveeta.
Q: Can I make mac and cheese without processed cheese?
A: Yes, you can make mac and cheese without processed cheese by using a béchamel sauce made with butter, flour, and milk, and then adding grated real cheese.
Q: How do I make mac and cheese from scratch?
A: To make mac and cheese from scratch, cook the pasta according to the package directions. While the pasta is cooking, make a béchamel sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk until the sauce thickens. Stir in grated cheese until melted and smooth. Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and stir to combine.