What Is Easy Cheese?
Easy Cheese is a processed cheese product dispensed from an aerosol can, offering a convenient and novel way to enjoy cheese; it’s essentially a spreadable cheese sauce made with cheese, milk solids, and various stabilizers and emulsifiers, propelled by a propellant gas.
A Brief History of Cheese in a Can
The concept of cheese in a can might seem modern, but its roots stretch back further than you think. While aerosol technology was developed earlier, the specific application to cheese became commercially viable in the mid-20th century. Initially introduced by Nabisco as “Snack Mate” in 1966, it revolutionized snack time with its ease of use and portability. The product’s appeal lay in its ability to deliver a cheese flavor without the mess of slicing or spreading traditional cheeses. Over the years, the brand changed hands, eventually becoming part of Kraft Heinz, who rebranded it as Easy Cheese, further solidifying its place in pop culture and pantry shelves.
The Making of Easy Cheese: From Ingredients to Aerosol
The transformation from raw ingredients to a pressurized cheese spray is a multi-step process. Understanding these steps demystifies what’s actually inside that can.
- Cheese Preparation: Real cheese, usually cheddar or cheddar blends, forms the base.
- Melting and Blending: The cheese is melted and mixed with milk solids, whey, and other dairy ingredients.
- Emulsification: Emulsifiers, such as sodium phosphate and sodium citrate, are added to create a smooth, homogenous texture and prevent separation.
- Pasteurization: The mixture is pasteurized to eliminate bacteria and extend shelf life.
- Aerosolization: The cheese mixture is chilled and combined with a propellant, typically nitrous oxide or carbon dioxide, and sealed into the can.
Ingredients Unpacked: What’s Really in the Can?
A closer look at the ingredients reveals the complex formulation behind Easy Cheese. While cheese is the foundation, other components play crucial roles.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cheddar Cheese | Provides the cheese flavor. |
| Whey | Contributes to the texture and body. |
| Milk Protein Concentrate | Increases protein content. |
| Canola Oil | Adds creaminess and texture. |
| Sodium Phosphate | An emulsifier to prevent separation. |
| Sodium Citrate | Another emulsifier and pH adjuster. |
| Lactic Acid | Helps control acidity and flavor. |
| Sorbic Acid | A preservative to inhibit mold growth. |
| Annatto | A natural food coloring for yellow color. |
| Nitrous Oxide/Carbon Dioxide | The propellant that makes it sprayable. |
Beyond the Cracker: Versatile Uses for Easy Cheese
While often enjoyed directly onto crackers, Easy Cheese has found its way into various culinary applications, showcasing its versatility.
- Quick Snacks: The classic pairing with crackers remains a popular choice.
- Garnishing Hot Dishes: A quick swirl adds a cheesy topping to baked potatoes, nachos, or soups.
- Portable Lunchboxes: Its portability makes it a convenient addition to lunchboxes for a quick cheese fix.
- Campfire Treats: It can be used to enhance the flavor of campfire snacks like hot dogs or marshmallows.
Nutritional Considerations: Moderation is Key
While convenient, it’s essential to be mindful of the nutritional content. Easy Cheese is relatively high in sodium and saturated fat compared to natural cheeses.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (5g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 25 |
| Total Fat | 2g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Sodium | 110mg |
| Protein | 1g |
Therefore, consuming it in moderation as part of a balanced diet is recommended.
Storage and Shelf Life: Keeping Your Cheese Fresh
Easy Cheese has a relatively long shelf life thanks to the pasteurization and packaging process. However, proper storage is crucial for maintaining its quality. Unopened cans should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, the nozzle should be cleaned, and the can should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of cheese is Easy Cheese made from?
Easy Cheese is primarily made from cheddar cheese or a blend of cheddar cheeses. The cheese is processed and combined with other ingredients to create its unique texture and sprayable consistency. While the specific cheese blend can vary slightly, cheddar is always the primary flavor component.
Is Easy Cheese real cheese?
While Easy Cheese contains real cheese as its base ingredient, it is heavily processed and includes other ingredients such as milk solids, whey, emulsifiers, and preservatives. This processing significantly alters the texture and nutritional profile compared to natural cheeses.
How long does Easy Cheese last after opening?
Once opened, Easy Cheese should be refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 weeks. While the preservatives help extend its shelf life, the cheese can start to dry out and lose its flavor over time. Always check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor or discoloration, before consuming.
Can Easy Cheese be frozen?
Freezing Easy Cheese is generally not recommended. The process can alter the texture and cause the ingredients to separate, resulting in a grainy and unappetizing product upon thawing.
Is Easy Cheese gluten-free?
The ingredient list for Easy Cheese does not contain gluten, but individuals with gluten sensitivity should always check the product label for any potential cross-contamination warnings, as manufacturing processes can sometimes introduce trace amounts of gluten.
Is Easy Cheese vegetarian?
Yes, Easy Cheese is generally considered vegetarian-friendly. The ingredients typically used in its production do not contain any meat or animal byproducts. However, always check the ingredient list to confirm, as formulations can occasionally change.
Does Easy Cheese contain lactose?
Easy Cheese does contain dairy ingredients, including cheese, whey, and milk protein concentrate, which contain lactose. Individuals with lactose intolerance may experience discomfort after consuming Easy Cheese, and should be mindful of portion sizes.
What is the propellant used in Easy Cheese?
The propellant used in Easy Cheese is typically nitrous oxide or carbon dioxide. These gases are non-toxic and food-grade, and they provide the pressure needed to expel the cheese mixture from the can.
Is Easy Cheese safe to eat?
Easy Cheese is generally considered safe for consumption when used as directed. The ingredients and manufacturing processes are regulated by food safety standards. However, like all processed foods, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does Easy Cheese get its color?
The yellow color of Easy Cheese is primarily derived from annatto, a natural food coloring extracted from the seeds of the achiote tree. Annatto is a common and safe food additive used to enhance the color of various food products.
Can Easy Cheese be used in cooking?
While it’s primarily used as a snack topping, Easy Cheese can be used in some cooking applications, such as melting it into sauces or adding it to baked dishes for a quick cheesy flavor. However, its unique texture may not always yield the same results as traditional cheeses.
Are there different flavors of Easy Cheese?
Yes, while the original cheddar flavor is the most popular, Easy Cheese is available in a variety of flavors, including sharp cheddar, American, and nacho cheese. These variations offer different flavor profiles to suit individual preferences.