Patrick Oconnell
Blue cheese is a popular variety of cheese that is known for its strong flavour and distinctive appearance. It is made from cow's milk and contains a high proportion of fat and protein. The nutritional value of blue cheese can vary depending on factors such as the type of milk used, the production process, and the age of the cheese. So, how many calories are there in a 2-ounce serving of blue cheese?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Carbohydrates | 3% |
| Fats | 73% |
| Proteins | 24% |
| Calcium | 10% of RDA |
| Phosphorous | 13% of RDA |
| Potassium | 2% of RDA |
| Sodium | 14% of RDA |
| Vitamin A | 29% of RDA |
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What You'll Learn
Blue cheese dressing: 2 fl oz contains 240 calories
Blue cheese is a delicious, flavourful cheese that is used in a variety of dishes. It is also often made into a dressing, which is a popular choice for salads.
When it comes to calories, blue cheese is quite dense. This is due to its high fat content, which makes up the majority of its calories. A 1-ounce serving (28 grams) of blue cheese contains around 100 calories, with 72-73% of those calories coming from fat. The specific type of fat found in blue cheese is called dairy fat, which is a combination of saturated and unsaturated fats. While saturated fat should be consumed in moderation, the unsaturated variety is beneficial for heart health.
In addition to fat, blue cheese also contains protein, which makes up about a quarter of its calories. This is also a beneficial component, as protein is an essential nutrient that supports various bodily functions. The protein found in blue cheese is of the dairy variety, which includes whey and casein. Casein is a slow-digesting protein, making it ideal for providing sustained energy during long periods without eating.
Now, let's focus on the topic at hand: blue cheese dressing. Specifically, we're looking at a 2-fluid-ounce serving, which contains 240 calories. This is significantly more than the calorie count of plain blue cheese per ounce, indicating that other ingredients in the dressing contribute to the higher calorie content. This could include additional oils or other high-calorie additives. It's important to note that this calorie count is specifically for the dressing and not the plain cheese.
While blue cheese and its dressings can be a tasty addition to meals, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and overall calorie intake, especially if you're watching your weight. The high-fat content of blue cheese means it can quickly add up in terms of calories, so enjoying it in moderation is key.
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Nutritional value
Blue cheese is a good source of nutrients and offers health benefits due to its protein, fat, vitamin, and mineral content. The nutritional value of blue cheese is dependent on the type of milk used, the fat content, how it is processed, and its age.
A 2-ounce serving of blue cheese contains 200 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is 3% carbohydrates, 73% fat, and 24% protein. A 1-ounce serving of blue cheese has 100 calories, 8.1 grams of fat, and 6 grams of protein. The fat content is made up of 5.3 grams of saturated fatty acids and 2.2 grams of monounsaturated fatty acids. The protein content comes from dairy and accounts for 24% of the total calories in a 1-ounce serving.
Blue cheese is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and vitamin A. A 1-ounce serving provides 10% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of calcium, 13% of the RDA of phosphorus, 2% of the RDA of potassium, 14% of the RDA of sodium, and 29% of the RDA of vitamin A.
While blue cheese is higher in saturated fats than healthy fats, it still provides a good serving of unsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health. However, it is important to note that blue cheese is high in sodium, so individuals with high blood pressure or on a low-sodium diet should consume it in moderation. Reduced-fat blue cheese is also available, which has 80 calories per ounce and 5 grams of fat.
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Health benefits
A 2-ounce serving of blue cheese dressing contains 240 calories, 23 grams of fat, 4 grams of protein, and 2 grams of carbohydrates.
Rich in Calcium
Blue cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for healthy teeth and bones. It also helps form tooth enamel, the hard outer surface of the teeth that protects them from extreme temperatures. A 1-ounce serving of blue cheese contains 150 mg of calcium, providing 10% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA).
Promotes Bone Health
Regular consumption of calcium-rich foods like blue cheese helps protect bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Blue cheese also contains phosphorus, which is important for bone health.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Blue cheese contains a compound called spermidine, which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies show that individuals who regularly consume blue cheese have a lower risk of developing cardiovascular problems. It also helps prevent blood clotting, arterial inflammation, and lowers cholesterol levels. Additionally, the fat in blue cheese may have a positive effect on cardiovascular health.
Immune System Support
Blue cheese is rich in vitamins and minerals that support immune system functioning. It also contains a substance called spermidine, which may have immune-boosting properties.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Blue cheese has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body. It may also ease the discomfort associated with arthritis.
While blue cheese offers these health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high levels of fat, sodium, and calories. Additionally, individuals with mold allergies or lactose intolerance should exercise caution when consuming blue cheese.
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Sodium content
Blue cheese is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and vitamin A. A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of blue cheese provides 10% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of calcium, 13% of phosphorus, 2% of potassium, 14% of sodium, and 29% of vitamin A.
The sodium content of blue cheese is relatively high, with a 1-ounce serving contributing to 14% of the RDA of sodium. For those with high blood pressure or on a low-sodium diet, this is an important consideration. The recommended daily sodium intake for adults is generally between 1,500 to 2,000 milligrams. Blue cheese is available in reduced-sodium options, which can be a healthier choice for those watching their sodium intake.
The nutritional content of blue cheese, including its sodium levels, can vary depending on the type of milk used and whether the fat has been removed. For example, reduced-fat blue cheese has 80 calories per ounce (28 grams) and 5 grams of fat, which is lower than the 100 calories and 8.1 grams of fat in regular blue cheese.
When it comes to sodium content, different varieties of blue cheese may have slight variations. Some popular varieties include Gorgonzola, double crème blue, Roquefort, Stilton, and traditional Danish blue. Each variety has its unique characteristics, ranging from mild to bold and creamy to hard textures.
While blue cheese contributes a significant amount of sodium to the diet, it's important to consider your overall daily sodium intake and the sodium content of other foods consumed throughout the day. Sodium is an essential mineral, but excessive intake can lead to health issues, especially for those with high blood pressure or cardiovascular concerns.
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Varieties of blue cheese
There are over 100 varieties of blue cheese, each with distinct manufacturing processes and characteristics. Blue cheese is a general classification of cheese that has had cultures of the mold Penicillium added, resulting in a final product that is spotted or veined with blue or blue-grey mold and carries a distinct smell. Here are some of the most well-known varieties:
Gorgonzola
Gorgonzola is an Italian variety of blue cheese. It is made from unskimmed cow's milk and has a strong flavor and a creamy texture. It pairs well with sweet wines such as Moscato d'Asti or Vin Santo.
Roquefort
Roquefort is a French blue cheese made from sheep's milk. It has a strong, tangy flavor and a crumbly texture. It is often used in salads or as a topping for meat or vegetables.
Stilton
Stilton is an English blue cheese made from cow's milk. It has a rich, creamy texture and a strong, pungent flavor. It is often served as a dessert cheese, paired with a sweet wine such as Port or Madeira.
Danish Blue
Also known as Danablu, this Danish cheese is made from cow's milk and has a mild, slightly salty flavor. It is often used in salads or as a topping for rye bread.
Double Crème Blue
A rich and creamy variety of blue cheese with a high butterfat content, resulting in a smooth and spreadable texture.
In addition to these popular varieties, there are many other types of blue cheese produced around the world, each with its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Blue cheese is a good source of nutrients, providing vitamins, minerals, proteins, and healthy fats. However, it is also high in sodium and potassium, so those with high blood pressure or kidney disease should consume it in moderation.
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Frequently asked questions
There are 200 calories in 2 oz of blue cheese.
Blue cheese is made from full-fat cow's milk. It is created by heating milk with active cultures and a coagulant, draining the leftover whey curdles, and leaving the product to age.
Blue cheese is an excellent source of calcium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, and vitamin A. It is also a good source of protein and provides a serving of unsaturated fats that protect the heart.
