Randy Chandler
Cheese is a beloved dairy product made from milk, cultures, salt, and enzymes. It is a staple in many diets around the world and is used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to soups. When it comes to nutrition, cheese is composed mostly of fat and protein, with varying amounts of calcium and other nutrients. The calorie count of cheese can vary depending on factors such as the type of cheese, the milk used, the processing methods, and the age of the cheese. So, how many calories are in a slice of white cheddar cheese, and how does it fit into a healthy diet?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60-80 |
| Carbohydrates | 0-3.6g |
| Fat | 4.7-76% |
| Protein | 0.6-24% |
| Calcium | High |
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What You'll Learn
Calories depend on milk fat content
Cheddar cheese is a delicious addition to many comfort foods. However, it has a high-calorie count and saturated fat content. The nutritional value and calorie count of cheese depend on the fat content of the milk used, how it's processed, and its age.
White cheddar cheese is simply "original" cheddar cheese, as all cheddar starts as white or a similar shade since it comes from cow's milk. The colour of other cheddars comes from vegetable dye added in the 17th century to give it a consistent colour.
Cheddar cheese is made from cultured milk and rennet. The leftover liquid, called whey, is drained, and the remaining curds are heated to remove moisture and melt them into large slabs. These slabs are then pressed and moulded into blocks, which are then aged until they are ready to be eaten.
The longer a cheese is aged, the harder it becomes, and harder cheeses tend to have higher calorie counts compared to softer cheeses. This is because they contain less moisture and have a more robust flavour.
A slice of President's Choice sliced white cheddar cheese contains 80 calories, 76% of which come from fat. Whole-milk cheddar is high in total fat (10 grams per ounce) and saturated fat (6 grams per ounce).
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Calories vary with processing and age
The calorie content of cheese depends on several factors, including the type of milk used, the processing methods, and the age of the cheese.
Cheese is typically made from cow's milk, but it can also be made from other types of milk, such as goat's or sheep's milk. The fat content of the milk used plays a significant role in determining the calorie count of the cheese. Full-fat dairy products tend to be high in calories, which can be a concern for those watching their weight.
The processing methods used to make the cheese also affect its calorie content. Highly processed cheeses tend to contain more artificial ingredients and may have a higher calorie count. Natural cheeses with less processing, such as Swiss, Colby, mozzarella, and ricotta, are generally lower in calories.
The age of the cheese also impacts its calorie content. Hard and aged cheeses, like cheddar, Parmesan, and Swiss, tend to have higher calorie counts compared to softer, fresher cheeses. The aging process reduces the moisture content in the cheese, resulting in a more concentrated form with a higher calorie density. However, this does not mean that hard cheeses cannot be part of a balanced diet. With portion control and moderation, they can be enjoyed as part of a healthy eating plan.
Cheddar cheese, in particular, is known for its high-calorie density. A slice of President's Choice sliced white cheddar cheese contains 80 calories, with 76% of those calories coming from fat. The high-fat content of cheddar contributes to its calorie density, and it is compatible with diets that emphasize high-fat intake, such as the keto diet.
In summary, the calories in cheese can vary depending on the processing methods, the type of milk used, and the age of the cheese. Hard and aged cheeses tend to have higher calorie counts, while softer and fresher cheeses are generally lower in calories. However, cheese can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet by practicing portion control and moderation.
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Hard cheeses can have more calories
A slice of white cheddar cheese contains about 80 calories. The calorie count of cheese is highly dependent on the fat content of the milk used, how it's processed, and its age.
Cheese is a nutrient-dense food, providing protein, fats, and minerals. The nutritional value of cheese varies depending on the type of cheese. For example, hard cheeses tend to have a higher calorie count compared to softer cheeses. This is because hard cheeses are aged longer, contain less moisture, and have a more robust flavor.
Hard cheeses, such as Parmigiano-Reggiano and aged cheddar, are easily stored and travel well because they do not require refrigeration. These cheeses are also lower in lactose, a type of sugar that some people cannot easily digest due to a lack of the enzyme needed to break it down.
An ounce of hard cheese, or a wedge about the size of your thumb, contains around 120 calories, 8 grams of protein, 6 grams of saturated fat, and 180 milligrams of calcium. On the other hand, a half-cup of soft cheese, like 4% full-fat cottage cheese, has a similar calorie count of about 120 calories, but with 14 grams of protein, 3 grams of saturated fat, and 80 milligrams of calcium.
While hard cheeses have a higher calorie count, they are also more concentrated in flavor and density, so people tend to consume less of them. For example, two tablespoons of Parmesan, the amount typically sprinkled over an Italian meal, contain around 45 calories. Therefore, while hard cheeses have more calories, they can still be included in a balanced diet with appropriate portion moderation.
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Natural cheese is less processed
A slice of President's Choice sliced white cheddar cheese contains 80 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 0% carbs, 76% fat, and 24% protein. While cheese is a great source of calcium, it is also high in fat, which can negatively impact health and weight loss plans. Therefore, it is recommended to consume cheese in moderation.
When it comes to choosing cheese, it is best to opt for natural varieties that are less processed. Natural cheese is made from fresh milk with no additives and undergoes a simpler production process compared to processed cheese. Processed cheese, often found in slices or shredded form, contains emulsifiers, preservatives, and other additives to enhance texture, taste, and shelf life. These additives can include starch to prevent clumping, anti-caking agents, and artificial ingredients.
Natural cheese, on the other hand, only undergoes a clumping and curing process. It is then aged for several weeks to years to develop its distinct flavor and texture. This aging process is a key differentiator between natural and processed cheese, as it contributes to the complexity and quality of the final product. While natural cheese is more sensitive to temperature fluctuations and prone to deterioration, it offers a more authentic and less processed option.
To identify less processed cheese, look for products with fewer industrial ingredients and those that are generally produced by smaller companies. Additionally, natural cheese will be labelled with the cheese variety followed by the word "cheese", such as "cheddar cheese". If the label includes terms like "pasteurized processed cheese" or similar variations, it indicates a higher level of processing.
Some examples of natural cheeses include Swiss, Colby, mozzarella, and ricotta, and real sliced cheddar. These cheeses are less processed and offer a more authentic cheese experience. While all cheese undergoes some form of processing, opting for natural varieties can provide a healthier and tastier option.
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President's Choice slice has 80 calories
A slice of President's Choice White Cheddar Cheese contains 80 calories. This calorie count is dependent on the fat content of the milk used, the processing methods, and the age of the cheese. Generally, hard and semi-hard cheeses tend to have higher calorie counts compared to softer cheeses. This is due to their longer aging periods, lower moisture content, and more robust flavors.
President's Choice sliced white cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a high fat content, contributing to its calorie count. The nutritional breakdown of this cheese is 0% carbohydrates, 76% fat, and 24% protein. This means that for every 80 calories in a slice, 61 calories come from fat.
The high-fat content in full-fat dairy products, such as cheese, can negatively impact health and weight loss goals. However, it's important to note that cheese is also a good source of bone- and teeth-strengthening calcium.
When aiming for a healthier option, it is recommended to opt for natural cheeses with less processing, such as Swiss, Colby, mozzarella, or ricotta. These cheeses have lower fat and calorie contents while still providing the nutritional benefits associated with cheese consumption.
Additionally, portion control plays a crucial role in incorporating cheese into a balanced diet. Enjoying a small portion of cheese can enhance the flavor of dishes or provide a satisfying snack without derailing health goals.
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Frequently asked questions
The number of calories in a slice of white cheddar cheese varies depending on the brand and the type of milk used. For example, a slice of President's Choice white cheddar cheese contains 80 calories, while Sheese white cheddar cheese slices contain 60 calories.
Yes, there are several different varieties of cheddar cheese, including hard, semi-hard, and soft cheeses. The hardness of the cheese depends on how long it has been aged and how much moisture it contains.
Yes, the nutritional value and calorie count of cheese depend on the fat content of the milk used. Cheese made with full-fat dairy will have a higher calorie count compared to those made with lower-fat milk.
