Any of several types of natural cheese that are pasteurized to lengthen storage life and combined with emulsifiers to aid smoothness. In some cases processed cheeses contain added colorings and preservatives. Products labeled cheese "spreads" or cheese "foods" contain added liquid for a softer, more spreadable mixture. According to U. S. government standards, only 51 percent of the final weight needs to be cheese. Processed cheeses keep well but lack the distinctive flavor and texture of natural cheeses. They're also sometimes referred to as American cheeses. See also cheese.