Randy Chandler
Grated cheese is a versatile and flavorful ingredient used in a variety of dishes. While it adds a delightful sharpness to meals, it's important to be mindful of the calorie content, especially when trying to control portion sizes. So, how many calories are in a handful of grated cheese? Let's delve into the nutritional facts to find out.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories in 1/3 cup of finely shredded grated cheese | 110 |
| Calories in 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese | 440 |
| Percentage of carbs in grated cheese | 4% |
| Percentage of fat in grated cheese | 72% |
| Percentage of protein in grated cheese | 25% |
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What You'll Learn
A cup of grated cheddar contains 440 calories
Cheese is a versatile and flavourful dairy product, often used to add sharpness or tanginess to a dish. It is most commonly made from pasteurised cow's milk and is particularly associated with English cuisine. Common dishes featuring cheddar cheese include mac and cheese, tacos, pizza, and salads.
Due to its high fat and sodium content, grated cheddar cheese should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, it is also packed with calcium and protein, which can support strong bones and muscles. As such, grated cheddar cheese can be a nutritious addition to a meal when enjoyed in appropriate quantities.
It is worth noting that the calorie count may vary slightly depending on the specific type of cheese, the amount grated, and the method of grating. A cup of grated cheddar, for example, may appear to provide more cheese than a handful, and therefore, a higher calorie count. Nonetheless, the calorie content of cheese remains relatively high, emphasizing the importance of portion control when incorporating it into meals.
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A third of a cup of finely shredded cheese has 110 calories
A handful of grated cheese can vary in calorie count depending on the type of cheese and the size of the handful. However, on average, a third of a cup of finely shredded cheese contains approximately 110 calories. This calorie count can differ based on the brand and type of cheese. For example, a third of a cup of Great Value finely shredded cheese contains 110 calories.
When considering the calorie count of grated cheese, it is important to note that the macronutrient breakdown can vary depending on the type of cheese. For instance, the aforementioned Great Value finely shredded cheese has a macronutrient breakdown of 4% carbs, 72% fat, and 25% protein.
Comparatively, a cup of grated cheddar cheese, which equates to approximately 112 grams, contains around 440 calories. This includes about 28 grams of protein, 36 grams of fat, and 4 grams of carbohydrates. While grated cheddar cheese offers a versatile and flavorful addition to various dishes, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high content of saturated fats and sodium.
As a general guideline, it is recommended to refer to specific nutritional labels for accurate calorie and macronutrient information, as the values may fluctuate slightly between different brands and varieties of cheese. Additionally, daily calorie requirements can vary from person to person, so it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice and recommendations regarding cheese consumption within the context of a balanced diet.
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Grated cheese is high in saturated fats
The calorie count of a handful of grated cheese depends on the type of cheese and the size of the handful. For example, 1/3 cup of finely shredded Great Value grated cheese contains 110 calories, 72% of which come from fat.
Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, but many popular varieties are made from whole milk and are high in saturated fat. Low-fat cheeses, such as nonfat or low-fat versions of cheddar, Swiss, cottage cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella, contain no more than 1 gram of saturated fat per serving. Other options like quark, a German and Eastern European curd-based fresh cheese, are virtually fat-free.
Reduced-fat cheeses are also available, typically containing 7-10% saturated fat. Examples include reduced-fat feta, which is still high in salt, and reduced-fat versions of hard cheeses, which may take longer to melt when cooking. Additionally, some cheeses, such as mozzarella, feta, cottage cheese, and ricotta, naturally have lower fat content.
To reduce saturated fat intake, it is advisable to use smaller portions of cheese, opt for low-fat or reduced-fat varieties, or choose vegan cheese substitutes made from plants.
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Cheddar is packed with calcium and protein
A handful of grated cheese, about 1/3 cup, contains 110 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 4% carbs, 72% fat, and 25% protein. While cheese is often associated with comfort food, it offers several nutritional benefits. Cheddar cheese, in particular, is packed with calcium and protein.
Cheddar cheese is a rich source of calcium, providing 200 mg of this nutrient per ounce, which meets 20% of the recommended daily value. Calcium plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by the degeneration of bone density. By including calcium-rich foods like cheddar in your diet, you can actively contribute to stronger, healthier bones.
In addition to calcium, cheddar cheese is an excellent source of protein. It contains 7 grams of protein per ounce, making it a substantial contributor to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for various bodily functions, including muscle building, enzyme production, providing structure to cells, and maintaining fluid balance. The protein content in cheddar cheese not only supports your physical structure but also ensures the proper functioning of your body.
Furthermore, cheddar cheese is a healthier option for individuals who are lactose intolerant. As a hard and aged cheese, cheddar has a relatively low lactose content, allowing lactose-intolerant individuals to enjoy it without experiencing unpleasant symptoms like bloating, stomach upset, or gas. However, it's important to note that cheddar still contains casein and whey, which can trigger an immune response in people with a dairy allergy.
While cheddar cheese offers these nutritional benefits, it is also high in fat, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The full-fat dairy paradox suggests that consuming calorie-dense foods like cheddar can increase satiety, potentially counteracting the belief that cheese leads to weight gain. Nevertheless, low-fat cheese alternatives are available for those concerned about their fat intake.
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Grated cheese originated in England
The calorie count in a handful of grated cheese depends on the type of cheese used and how finely it is grated. Commercial grated cheeses are often blends of different cheeses, and shredded cheese is coarser and cooks differently. Typically, aged hard cheeses are used for grating. Assuming a 1/3 cup portion of finely shredded cheese, there are approximately 110 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 4% carbs, 72% fat, and 25% protein.
As for the history of grated cheese, it is believed to have originated in England in the 16th century, around the 1540s, when Isaac Hunt invented the cheese grater. At that time, England experienced a trend of avoiding meat, leading farmers to switch to dairy-producing cows. This resulted in an abundance of milk and, consequently, a surplus of cheese. Hunt aimed to stretch the cheese supply by grating and melting it for Welsh rarebit, allowing for a more even distribution.
The invention of the cheese grater in England revolutionized the way cheese was consumed and paved the way for various culinary applications. Grated cheese became popular due to its versatility and ability to enhance the flavor and texture of dishes. It became a convenient way to melt cheese evenly over food, making it a favorite topping for many dishes, including pasta, casseroles, and, of course, the aforementioned Welsh rarebit.
While the exact date of its origin may vary, the practice of grating cheese and the development of recipes incorporating grated cheese became widespread in England and eventually spread to other parts of the world. Grated cheese found its way into numerous cuisines, becoming a staple ingredient in many kitchens. Its convenience, flavor, and melting properties made it a beloved ingredient for cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
Over time, the process of grating cheese evolved, and technological advancements led to the availability of pre-grated cheese in supermarkets. Grated cheese is now commonly sold in packages, offering convenience to consumers who can easily sprinkle it on their favorite dishes. While the origin of grated cheese may lie in England, its influence has spread globally, and it remains a popular ingredient in modern cuisine.
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Frequently asked questions
There are approximately 440 calories in a cup of grated cheddar cheese, which is around 112 grams. However, the calorie count may vary depending on the type of cheese.
A cup of grated cheddar cheese contains approximately 28 grams of protein, 36 grams of fat, and 4 grams of carbohydrates.
Grated cheddar cheese is a versatile dairy product made from pasteurized cow's milk. It originated in England and adds a sharp, creamy, and tangy flavour to dishes. You can use it in mac and cheese, tacos, pizza, or sprinkle it over your salad.
While grated cheddar cheese is packed with calcium and protein, which are essential for strong bones and muscles, it is also high in saturated fats and sodium. As with all foods, it is important to enjoy grated cheddar cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
