Velveeta is a processed cheese product that comes in many varieties and colors. The classic Velveeta cheese has an orange hue, but some consumers wonder if it also comes in white. The short answer is yes, Kraft does produce a white version of Velveeta cheese. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at white Velveeta, how it differs from the original, and how it can be used in cooking and baking.
Background on Velveeta Cheese
Velveeta cheese was first introduced in 1918 by the Monroe Cheese Company. It was soon acquired by Kraft and became one of their signature processed cheese products. The original Velveeta had a bright orange color that came from the annatto spices used.
Some key facts about classic Velveeta:
- Contains milk, whey, milk protein concentrate, milkfat, whey protein concentrate, salt, calcium phosphate, sodium phosphate, lactic acid, annatto and paprika extract for color, enzymes, vitamin D3.
- Has a smooth, creamy texture thanks to emulsifying salts that help bind the ingredients.
- Melts smoothly and has a mild taste.
- Has a shelf-stable formula that allows it to be stored without refrigeration until opened.
- Nutrition: 1 oz provides 50 calories, 4.5g fat, 2g protein
Velveeta became popular for its ability to melt smoothly, which made it a versatile choice for dips, cheeses sauces, grilled cheese, mac and cheese, etc. However, some consumers disliked the artificial orange color or wanted a white cheese for aesthetic reasons in certain dishes.
The Introduction of White Velveeta
To appeal to consumer demands, Kraft Foods introduced a new white version of Velveeta in the 2000s. This allowed consumers to enjoy the creamy melting properties of Velveeta without the orange color.
Here are some key facts about white Velveeta:
- Does not contain annatto, the natural orange-yellow coloring
- Has a pale white or off-white color
- Has a very mild flavor just like original Velveeta
- Contains the same ingredients as regular Velveeta without the annatto
- Has the same smooth, creamy melting properties
- Can be used identically to classic Velveeta in recipes
- Comes in blocks, slices, and shredded formats
The introduction of white Velveeta opened up new possibilities for recipes and aesthetics without compromising on the convenient melting properties.
Uses for White Velveeta
White Velveeta can be used in place of original Velveeta for any recipe. The color makes it ideal for:
- Alfredo sauce – White sauce is more traditional
- Lasagna – White melted cheese provides classic lasagna look
- Mac and cheese – Goes well with white cheddar or American cheese
- Queso blanco dip – Keeps pale color instead of orange hue
- Cheeseburgers – White cheese provides classic burger aesthetic
- Fondue – Provides a neutral background for dipping foods
- Mashed potatoes – Blends smoothly without adding orange color
The white color can provide a more natural, appetizing appearance in many dishes. It also avoids the artificial orange look that some people dislike.
Availability of White Velveeta
White Velveeta can be found alongside the classic orange Velveeta in most major grocery stores in the dairy or cheese sections. Here are some tips for finding it:
- Check cheese sections near other Velveeta products
- Look for the distinctive Velveeta packaging in white
- May be stocked with specialty block cheeses
- Sold in 8oz, 16oz, and 32oz blocks
- Also available pre-sliced in 8oz and 16oz packs
- Occasionally sold shredded in 8oz bags
If your local store doesn’t carry it, you can request they order it or check online retailers. It remains far less common than original Velveeta but is gaining wider distribution.
Price and Value of White Velveeta
White Velveeta is typically priced on par with original Velveeta. Here are some average prices:
| Product | Typical Price |
|---|---|
| 8oz Block | $3.49 |
| 16oz Block | $5.99 |
| 32oz Block | $9.49 |
| 8oz Sliced | $3.79 |
| 16oz Sliced | $6.49 |
As a processed cheese product, Velveeta offers great value per ounce compared to natural cheeses. The white version remains affordable while offering the convenience of Velveeta.
Nutrition Comparison to Regular Velveeta
Since white Velveeta has the same ingredients as original Velveeta without the annatto, the nutrition facts are identical:
| Nutrition Facts | Regular Velveeta (per oz) | White Velveeta (per oz) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 50 | 50 |
| Fat | 4.5g | 4.5g |
| Carbs | 1g | 1g |
| Protein | 2g | 2g |
The white variety provides the same rich, creamy texture with a mild mellow flavor. The only difference is the color.
Reviews of White Velveeta
Most reviews of white Velveeta are positive, highlighting the convenience and melting ability. Here are some examples:
- “This gives all the creamy, dreamy texture of regular Velveeta without altering the color of your dishes. I use it for mac and cheese, pasta sauces, and dips where I want that smooth meltyness but not the orange hue.”
- “Just as delicious as the original but with a nicer color. I love using it for cooking without it making everything look orange. Melts and tastes the same as the classic stuff.”
- “I was skeptical that the white version would be as good but I was wrong. It melted perfectly smooth in my chili mac and tasted fantastic. Will be buying this from now on.”
- “It’s so hard to find white Velveeta where I live but it’s worth searching for. I made a roux sauce that stayed creamy white thanks to this cheese. Worked great and tasted delicious.”
Most reviews confirm that the white variety lives up to the Velveeta name while offering an improved color.
Conclusion
White Velveeta offers all the creamy, melty properties of classic Velveeta in a pale white color. This allows cooking and baking without the artificial orange hue that some people wish to avoid. The white version can be substituted in any recipe that calls for regular Velveeta with identical results except for the appearance. It provides great convenience for sauces, baked dishes, appetizers, and more. While not as widely available as the original, white Velveeta can be found in most large grocery stores and online. It remains affordably priced while offering a useful alternative to traditional Velveeta for cooking needs.