How does the fat content of cheese affect its stretchiness?

The fat content in cheese significantly influences its stretchiness, as higher fat levels contribute to a creamier texture and better meltability. Fat helps to lubricate the proteins during heating, allowing them to stretch rather than break apart. Cheeses with lower fat content tend to be less stretchy and may become crumbly when melted. Thus, cheeses like mozzarella, which have a higher fat content, are more likely to exhibit the desired stretchiness when heated.