Kamil Perry
Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese is a low-fat alternative to regular Swiss cheese. It was invented in 1985 by Alpine Lace Brands to meet the growing demand for healthier options. The cheese is made with low-fat milk instead of whole milk, giving it 25% less fat than its traditional counterpart. This variety of Swiss cheese is also known as Lacy Swiss, Baby Swiss, or Lacy Baby Swiss. It has a lacy appearance with small holes and a creamy, ivory colour. With its light and nutty flavour, Lacy Swiss is a delicious addition to sandwiches, burgers, and melts. But is it lactose-free?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fat content | 25% less than regular Swiss cheese |
| Total fat | 4.5g-6g compared to 7g-8g in regular Swiss cheese |
| Ingredients | Cultured pasteurized reduced-fat milk, salt, enzymes, vitamin A palmitate |
| Allergens | Contains milk |
| Nutritional information | Good source of calcium and protein |
| Lactose-free | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese is not lactose-free
Lactose is a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. It is a disaccharide, which means it is made up of two simpler sugars: glucose and galactose. In order for lactose to be digested and absorbed in the small intestine, it must be broken down into these two simpler sugars by an enzyme called lactase. Some people have a condition called lactose intolerance, which means their body does not produce enough lactase to properly digest lactose. This can lead to digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea after consuming dairy products.
For individuals with lactose intolerance, lactose-free dairy products can be a good alternative. These products have been treated with the lactase enzyme to break down the lactose into glucose and galactose, so they can be easily digested. There are also some cheeses that are naturally low in lactose due to the way they are made or the length of time they have been aged.
While Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese is not lactose-free, there are other options available for those who are lactose intolerant or looking to reduce their lactose intake. For example, Shisler's Cheese House offers a product called Lacy Swiss, which is closely related to Swiss cheese but is made with low-fat milk instead of whole milk. This cheese is naturally lactose-free, making it a suitable option for those with lactose intolerance.
In addition to Lacy Swiss, there are other varieties of Swiss cheese that are naturally low in lactose or lactose-free. These include Baby Swiss, which is made by substituting water for the milk's whey, and matured Swiss cheeses that have been aged for a longer period of time. These options can provide the flavour and texture of traditional Swiss cheese while being more tolerant for those with lactose sensitivity.
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It contains cultured pasteurised reduced-fat milk
Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese is made from cultured pasteurised reduced-fat milk. This means that the milk used to produce the cheese has been treated with heat to kill any harmful bacteria and then cultured with specific bacteria to give it a particular flavour and texture. The use of reduced-fat milk contributes to the cheese's 25% lower total fat content compared to regular Swiss cheese.
The process of culturing pasteurised reduced-fat milk involves adding specific strains of bacteria to the milk, which convert lactose, a natural sugar found in milk, into lactic acid. This not only gives the cheese its characteristic tangy flavour but also reduces the amount of lactose present in the final product.
While the culturing process does not entirely eliminate lactose, it significantly reduces its concentration. As a result, Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese may be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a low-lactose diet. However, it is important to note that the cheese is not entirely lactose-free, and those with severe lactose intolerance may still experience some digestive discomfort if they consume a significant amount.
The reduction of fat in Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese is achieved through the use of low-fat milk, which has a lower fat content than the whole milk typically used in cheese production. This reduction in fat content makes the cheese a healthier alternative to regular Swiss cheese, as consuming too much fat, especially saturated fat, can have negative health impacts.
In addition to its reduced-fat content, Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese is also a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. The cheese also offers a good amount of protein, contributing to a sense of fullness and supporting muscle health.
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It has 25% less fat than regular Swiss cheese
Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese is a healthier alternative to regular Swiss cheese. It has 25% less fat than regular Swiss cheese, with 4.5g of fat per serving compared to 7g in regular Swiss cheese, or 6g compared to 8g in other sources. This is achieved by using low-fat milk instead of whole milk. It is also a good source of calcium and protein.
The cheese is pre-sliced, making it convenient for consumers to create balanced meals without compromising on flavor. It can be enjoyed on its own, as a table cheese, or in sandwiches, burgers, and hot dishes, as it melts very well.
Lacy Swiss, as it is sometimes called, has a milder flavor than traditional Swiss cheese, as well as smaller holes. This gives it a lacy appearance, from which it gets its name. It has a light, nutty flavor and a creamy, ivory color.
The reduced-fat content of Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese makes it a healthier option for consumers who are looking to reduce their fat intake without sacrificing taste. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes and pairs well with different wines and beers.
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It's a good source of calcium and protein
While Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese is not lactose-free, it is a good source of calcium and protein.
Calcium is a mineral that is vital for strong bones and teeth. A single serving of Swiss cheese contains about 222 milligrams of calcium, which is approximately 22% of the daily recommended value for adults. Calcium is also essential for muscle function, blood clotting, and nerve function.
Protein is necessary for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and cells in the body. It also helps with building muscle mass and contributing to overall strength. A single serving of Swiss cheese, or about one ounce or 28 grams, contains about 8 grams of protein.
Incorporating Swiss cheese into your diet can help you meet your recommended daily intake of protein and calcium, contributing to a healthy and balanced diet. However, it's important to consume it in moderation due to its fat, salt, and lactose content, which could be detrimental to some individuals.
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It's a healthier alternative to Swiss cheese
Alpine Lace Swiss cheese is a healthier alternative to regular Swiss cheese. It contains 25% less total fat than regular Swiss cheese, with 4.5g of fat per serving compared to 7g or 8g in the regular variety. It is made with reduced-fat milk, which gives it a lower fat content.
The cheese also has a good nutritional profile, being a good source of calcium and protein. It is also a good option for those who are lactose intolerant, as it is naturally lactose-free. This makes it a great alternative for those who are looking for a tasty, yet healthier, cheese option.
Lacy Swiss, a variety of Swiss cheese, was invented by Alpine Lace Brands in 1985 in response to the growing demand for healthier cheese options. It is a close relative of Swiss cheese, but the whole milk used in the original variety is replaced with low-fat milk, making it a healthier option with lower fat content. It gets its name from the lacy appearance of the slices, which are usually a creamy, ivory colour.
Lacy Swiss has a light and nutty flavour and is a good choice for sandwiches, hamburgers, and melting into quiches or pasta dishes. It is also a good pairing with a variety of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Riesling.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese is lactose-free. It was invented in 1985 as a healthier alternative to Swiss cheese, substituting low-fat milk for whole milk.
Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese has 25% less total fat than regular Swiss cheese. It also has a lacy appearance, with creamy, ivory-coloured slices and a nutty flavour.
The ingredients are cultured pasteurized reduced-fat milk, salt, enzymes, and vitamin A palmitate.
