Who invented American cheese?

American cheese wasn't invented by one specific person, but rather evolved through a process of innovation and adaptation within the American dairy industry.

Here's a breakdown of the key factors:

* 1851: The first documented use of the term "American cheese" appears. This likely refers to a cheddar-like cheese that was being produced in the United States.

* Early 1900s: The development of pasteurization and refrigeration allowed for the production of cheese on a larger scale, and cheesemakers began experimenting with different flavor profiles and textures.

* 1911: James L. Kraft, founder of Kraft Foods, began selling a processed cheese product called "Kraft American Cheese" that was made from cheddar cheese with the addition of emulsifiers. This process helped to create a cheese that was smooth, meltable, and readily available, quickly becoming popular for use in sandwiches and burgers.

* 1920s and 1930s: Further advancements in processing and packaging led to the creation of the individual "cheese slices" that are now ubiquitous in American culture.

Therefore, while James L. Kraft is often credited with popularizing "American cheese" as we know it today, it's important to acknowledge that the product was a result of a collective effort by cheesemakers and scientists over several decades.