One Kraft Singles American slice has about 50–60 calories, ~4g fat, ~3–4g protein, and notable sodium per 21 g slice.
Lower Sodium
Typical
Higher Sodium
Extra Thin (~14 g)
- Lighter melt, softer flavor
- ~35–45 kcal
- ~150–180 mg sodium
Lightest
Classic (21 g)
- ~50–60 kcal
- 3–4 g protein
- ~200–260 mg sodium
Balanced
Thick/Deluxe (24–28 g)
- ~70–100 kcal
- More melt per slice
- ~260–360 mg sodium
Heaviest
Kraft Singles American Slice Nutrition Facts In Context
Shoppers reach for the familiar orange square for melt and convenience. A single wrapped slice weighs 21 g. The brand page lists 50 calories per slice with a mild flavor and smooth melt, while some retail labels show 60. Packs differ by flavor line and thickness, so the best move is to read the exact panel in your hand.
Across common packs you’ll see around 4 g fat, 3–4 g protein, 1 g carb or less, and sodium near the 200–260 mg range per slice. Calcium often lands between 10–20% Daily Value (%DV). Those ranges line up with processed American slices across many stores.
| Nutrient | Typical Range | What To Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 50–60 kcal | Total sandwich calories |
| Protein | 3–4 g | Satiety per slice |
| Total Fat | 3.5–5 g | Melt and richness |
| Saturated Fat | 2–3 g | Limit across the day |
| Carbohydrate | 0–1 g | Usually minimal |
| Sodium | 200–260 mg | Stacks with bread and meat |
| Calcium | 10–20% DV | Helpful for bones |
How Pasteurized Process Slices Deliver That Melt
These slices start with dairy, then emulsifying salts bring water and fat together for a smooth melt. The process evens out moisture and fat so you get steady browning and no grainy pockets once heat hits the surface.
The tradeoff is sodium. Emulsifying salts and seasoning both add up. That’s why a slice can deliver near a tenth of the day’s sodium in one go. Balance the plate and you’re fine.
When A 21 g Slice Fits Well
Use one slice on a burger with tomato and lettuce. Pick whole-grain bread to bring fiber. If you want two slices, switch to a no-salt spice blend on the protein or swap pickles for fresh crunch to keep the numbers steady.
Allergens And Label Notes
Milk is present. Keep the pack cold and sealed for best texture. If any thin film clings after unwrapping, remove it fully and discard.
American Cheese Slice Nutrition Versus Other Cheeses
How does a wrapped slice stack up against other staples? Cheddar is denser in calories and fat per gram but brings more protein. Part-skim mozzarella lands lighter on fat and sodium with a milky flavor. A Swiss slice can be moderate in sodium with a nutty profile. If your goal is quick melt and mild taste at lower calories, one American slice works. If you want more protein per slice, cheddar or Swiss may suit you better.
| Type | Calories | Protein |
|---|---|---|
| American, processed | 50–60 | 3–4 g |
| Cheddar | 80–90 | 5–6 g |
| Swiss | 70–80 | 5–6 g |
| Mozzarella, part-skim | 60–70 | 5–6 g |
Use %DV To Read The Label Fast
%DV shows how a serving contributes to the day. Five percent or less is low; twenty percent or more is high. A slice often lands near 10% DV for sodium and can reach the teens for calcium. If you build a sandwich with two slices and salty add-ons, that share climbs.
Where A Slice Helps
Calcium is a bright spot. Many packs land in the 10–20% DV range per slice. If your day lacks dairy, that boost helps. Protein is modest but steady, which helps sandwiches feel more satisfying for the calories spent.
Where To Trim
Salt can stack up fast across a meal. Teens and adults are urged to keep daily sodium under less than 2,300 mg sodium. When bread, meat, pickles, and a slice share the plate, the total can pass mid-day limits without tasting briny.
Smart Swaps And Portion Ideas
Want the same melt with fewer calories? Use one slice and add a thick tomato slice for juiciness. Want creaminess with less sodium? Pair one slice with a no-salt spice blend on the protein. Building a tuna melt? Use one slice and a squeeze of lemon to sharpen flavor without more salt.
Cook Moves That Keep Flavor High
- Toast bread first so you don’t need extra butter for browning.
- Cover the pan for the last minute to steam-melt the slice.
- Layer moist items under the cheese so heat transfers fast.
Ingredient List, Decoded
You’ll see milk, whey, milkfat, cultures, salt, and emulsifying salts. These bind water and fat so the slice melts evenly. Color comes from annatto in the yellow variety. Packs state no artificial flavors. Fat and saturated fat vary slightly by cut and thickness.
Storage And Food Safety
Keep the pack refrigerated and sealed. Use clean, dry hands when unwrapping to avoid tearing the film. If a slice shows dried edges or off aroma, toss it. Cold storage keeps texture smooth and protects flavor.
Meal Ideas Under 500 Calories
Here are quick builds that use one slice while keeping calories in check. Mix and match sides like a crisp apple or cucumber sticks.
Grilled Cheese, Lighter
Use one slice on whole-grain bread with a swipe of mustard. Add thin-sliced tomato. Toast with a teaspoon of oil in a nonstick pan. Crunch and melt in one bite.
Egg And Cheese Breakfast Sandwich
Start with a toasted English muffin, one fried or scrambled egg, and one slice. Add pepper and a handful of baby spinach. Satisfying without a heavy load of calories.
Turkey Melt
Pile two ounces of sliced turkey on toasted sourdough. Add one slice and a spoon of slaw for texture. Warm in a skillet with a lid until the square softens and clings.
Buying Guide: Pick A Pack That Fits
Check slice count and weight. Extra thin packs cut calories per piece; thick packs raise them. If you’re planning burgers for a group, the classic 21 g cut keeps portions predictable. If sandwiches are daily, try a thin option and let toppings carry flavor.
Label Lines That Matter
- Serving size and calories per slice
- Saturated fat per slice
- Sodium per slice and %DV
- Calcium %DV
Bottom Line For Everyday Eating
A wrapped American slice brings quick melt, steady calcium, and modest protein. The tradeoff is sodium and saturated fat when you stack pieces or pair with salty sides. Keep portions tidy, add fresh toppings, and let one slice do the job on most builds. That way you keep the comfort and stay within your day.