A Ridiculous History of Processed Cheese
Ridiculous History Podcast by iHeartPodcasts
Released on March 20, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "A Ridiculous History of Processed Cheese", hosts Ben Bolan and Noel Brown delve into the intriguing and often overlooked story of processed cheese. With their characteristic blend of humor and historical insight, they explore the origins, development, and cultural impact of this beloved dairy product. The episode also touches upon the economic and governmental factors that have shaped the processed cheese industry in the United States.

The Nature of Processed Cheese

The discussion begins with the hosts examining what exactly constitutes processed cheese. Ben introduces the topic by contrasting processed cheese with natural cheese, emphasizing its unique characteristics and widespread popularity in American cuisine.

Ben Bolan [04:26]: "I'll tell you this, man. I know processed cheese is not the best thing for a human body, but I love it. I am like, I might be addicted to Velveeta at some points in my life."

Noel adds to this by highlighting the versatility of processed cheese products like Velveeta and Kraft Singles, noting their superior melting properties which make them ideal for dishes like Mac and cheese and cheesesteaks.

Noel Brown [04:38]: "It's a good Mac and cheese option, that's for sure. I think I prefer it to the Kraft powdered Mac and cheese box..."

Historical Origins

The conversation then takes a historical turn, tracing the roots of processed cheese back to ancient times. Ben cites Homer’s Iliad, dating back to around 800 BCE, which mentions mixing goat or sheep milk with wine—a precursor to modern cheese processing techniques.

Ben Bolan [16:20]: "The earliest mention of what we would call processed cheese actually comes from Homer, comes from the Iliad."

The hosts further explore the Swiss contributions to cheese processing in the 1300s, particularly in the Emmental region, where rennet was used to coagulate milk proteins, an essential step in cheese production.

Noel Brown [17:01]: "Swiss cheese is considered an early example of processed cheese because rennet is one of the main ingredients..."

Development in America

The focus shifts to the early 20th century with the pioneering efforts of James Lewis Kraft and his brother Norman. In 1911, the Kraft brothers sought to create a cheese product that could withstand long shipping times without spoiling, leading to the development of a process that extended cheese’s shelf life through the addition of sodium citrate.

Ben Bolan [19:10]: "In 1916, Canadian American immigrant James Lewis Kraft with a K, you know it, obtained his first patent for processed cheese along with his little brother Norman."

This innovation laid the foundation for what would become a multi-billion-dollar industry, with Kraft Singles alone accounting for approximately 74% of all processed cheese sales in the United States.

Noel Brown [22:21]: "In 1944, Kraft secured another patent, this time for the process that led to the delightful little Kraft singles that we know and some of us love today."

Government Involvement

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the interplay between the dairy industry and government policies. In the 1970s, facing a milk shortage, the U.S. government implemented the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973 under President Richard Nixon. This act included price controls and subsidies to stabilize milk prices and support struggling farmers.

Ben Bolan [25:11]: "President Richard Nixon... passed the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973. This did have price controls, it did have subsidies..."

However, these measures led to an unintended surplus of processed cheese, prompting further government intervention. Under President Reagan in the early 1980s, the government accumulated over 500 million pounds of processed cheese to maintain dairy industry stability. Instead of disposing of the excess, Reagan’s administration established the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program, distributing $300 million worth of "government cheese" to those in need.

Ben Bolan [31:00]: "President Reagan... founded the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program. This is the government cheese."

Modern Implications

The legacy of these policies is evident today, with the U.S. government reportedly storing over a billion pounds of processed cheese in underground caverns in Missouri. This surplus reflects ongoing challenges in balancing dairy supply and demand, compounded by fluctuating public demand for dairy products.

Noel Brown [34:06]: "These are referred to as anaerobic lagoons and are a way of, I believe, storing and treating livestock manure..."

Cultural Impact and Anecdotes

Processed cheese has firmly entrenched itself in American culture, most notably through its association with the classic Philly cheesesteak. The hosts discuss the varying preferences for cheese on cheesesteaks, with some favoring Cheez Whiz for its distinctive flavor and meltability, as seen in traditional establishments like Pat's and Geno's in Philadelphia.

Noel Brown [35:20]: "We traveled to Philadelphia on numerous occasions and have enjoyed authentic Philly cheesesteaks... the traditional way... is with Cheez Whiz..."

They also share anecdotes about their attempts to gather opinions from locals, revealing the strong and sometimes conflicting loyalties to different cheesesteak purveyors.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on the ubiquitous presence of processed cheese in American life and its complex history intertwined with industrial innovation and governmental policy. They invite listeners to ponder the broader implications of food processing and its role in society, all while maintaining their trademark lightheartedness.

Noel Brown [35:15]: "We should look back on that and maybe do an update."

Ben and Noel conclude by celebrating the enduring legacy of processed cheese and its place in both the culinary and economic fabric of the United States, thanking their contributors and encouraging listeners to continue exploring the often absurd histories behind everyday items.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Bolan [04:26]: "I might be addicted to Velveeta at some points in my life."

• Noel Brown [04:38]: "It's a good Mac and cheese option, that's for sure."

• Ben Bolan [16:20]: "The earliest mention of what we would call processed cheese actually comes from Homer..."

• Noel Brown [22:21]: "In 1944, Kraft secured another patent... for the delightful little Kraft singles..."

• Ben Bolan [25:11]: "President Richard Nixon... passed the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973."

• Ben Bolan [31:00]: "President Reagan... founded the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program. This is the government cheese."

• Noel Brown [35:20]: "We traveled to Philadelphia on numerous occasions and have enjoyed authentic Philly cheesesteaks..."

This comprehensive exploration sheds light on the "ridiculous" yet fascinating history of processed cheese, revealing its significant impact on both the food industry and broader societal structures.