Process cheese, also known as processed cheese, is a type of cheese that has been modified by blending various cheese types together. The spelling of the word "process" in this context is pronounced /ˈprɒsɛs/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling "process" is derived from the Latin word "processus," meaning "a going forward." This type of cheese is commonly used in commercial food production due to its resistance to melting, making it ideal for use in packaged foods such as cheese slices and cheese sauce.
Process cheese is a type of cheese product that is made by combining cheese, emulsifying salts, and other ingredients, which undergo a specific processing method to produce a homogeneous and smooth texture. It is commonly sold in pre-packaged slices, blocks, or spreads.
The production process of process cheese begins by melting natural cheese, often Cheddar, Colby, or Swiss, to a molten state. Emulsifiers, such as sodium or potassium phosphate, are then added to enhance the cheese's ability to melt and provide a consistent texture. Additional ingredients like milk, cream, and flavorings may also be included to manipulate the taste and moisture content.
Once all components are mixed thoroughly, the mixture is heated and agitated to achieve a uniform blend. It is then rapidly cooled, solidifying the cheese into a block, slice, or spreadable form. Process cheese has a relatively long shelf life compared to natural cheeses due to the addition of preservatives, which helps prevent spoilage.
In terms of culinary use, process cheese is highly versatile as it melts smoothly and evenly when heated, making it ideal for various dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, macaroni and cheese, and nachos. Its consistent texture also aids in easy slicing, spreading, and melting, making it convenient for quick and easy food preparation.
Overall, process cheese is a manufactured cheese product that undergoes a specific production process to create a consistent and spreadable texture, making it a popular choice for its convenience, versatility, and extended shelf life.
The word "process cheese" is a compound term made up of two separate words - "process" and "cheese".
The term "process" in this context refers to the manufacturing or production process used to make the final product. It does not refer to a specific method but rather to various industrial processes involved in mass production.
The word "cheese" originated from the Old English word "cyse", which can be traced back to the Latin word "caseus". The Latin word "caseus" was derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*kwat-", meaning "to ferment, become sour".
So, when these two words are combined to form "process cheese", it simply indicates a type of cheese that has undergone a specific manufacturing process.