Search our database for specific american cheese products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search American Cheese products →American Cheese vs Cheddar Comparison
A massive processing gap. Real cheddar (milk, cultures, enzymes, salt) is Level 2. American cheese (pasteurized process cheese) is Level 4 — it melts cheese with emulsifying salts, adds colors and preservatives.
DairyQuick Answer
Cheddar is dramatically less processed (Level 2 vs Level 4). American cheese is not actually cheese — it's an industrial product that uses cheese as a starting ingredient.
American Cheese vs Cheddar
American Cheese
Cheddar
Search our database for specific cheddar products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Cheddar products →Our Verdict
Cheddar is dramatically less processed (Level 2 vs Level 4). American cheese is not actually cheese — it's an industrial product that uses cheese as a starting ingredient.
Important Note
Processing levels can vary significantly between brands and specific products within each category. Always check the ingredient list of the specific product you are considering. Use our product search to look up exact processing scores.
Related Food Guides
Learn more about the individual foods in this comparison.