calcium from the casein matrix, but also bind
to the casein themselves, bringing moisture
with them and thus further loosening the
protein matrix. The same salts that melt the
component cheeses into a homogeneous mass
also help the resulting blended cheese melt
nicely when cooked. This characteristic,
together with its low cost, has made process
cheese a popular ingredient in fast-food
sandwiches.
Low- and no-fat “cheese products” replace
fat with various carbohydrates or proteins.
When heated, such products don’t melt; they
soften and then dry out.
Cheese and Health
Cheese and the Heart As a food that is
essentially a concentrated version of milk,
cheese shares many of milk’s nutritional
advantages and disadvantages. It’s a rich
source of protein, calcium, and energy. Its