Is Organic American Singles Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed cheese product is halal, the eyes immediately go to the enzymes and the source of the milk. In the case of Organic American Singles, the manufacturer has made a distinct choice to use microbial enzymes rather than animal rennet. The ingredient list explicitly states microbial enzymes (non-animal, rennetless). This is the critical factor that removes the risk of consuming enzymes derived from the stomachs of un-slaughtered animals.

The rest of the ingredients are standard for a cheese slice but are notably free of red flags. The base consists of cultured pasteurized organic milk, organic nonfat milk, and organic milkfat. While dairy is generally halal, the organic certification often ensures stricter standards regarding animal feed and treatment, though this does not inherently affect the halal status. Sodium citrate is used as an emulsifier to keep the cheese melty; it is a salt of citric acid and is fully synthetic and halal. Finally, the color comes from organic annatto, a plant-derived seed, which is perfectly safe. There are no hidden animal fats or gelatin binders in this product.

Nutritional Value

While the halal status is confirmed, it is equally important to look at the nutritional profile of these slices. A single slice generally contains around 60 calories, with 4.5 grams of fat and less than 1 gram of carbohydrates. This makes it a relatively low-carb option, fitting easily into a standard diet or even a keto plan. However, consumers should be mindful of the sodium citrate and salt content, which contributes to the sodium levels. For those strictly monitoring sodium intake, this is a factor to consider. In terms of sugar, the product contains negligible amounts, making it a better alternative to sweetened processed snacks. It is a source of calcium and protein, but like many processed cheeses, it is high in sodium relative to its portion size.