Patrick Oconnell
Blue cheese is a nutrient-dense food that contains vitamins, minerals, and natural compounds that are beneficial to health. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and several other nutrients. However, it is also high in fat, with 8.1 grams of fat per ounce (28 grams), of which 5.3 grams are saturated fat. For this reason, people following a low-fat diet are advised to limit their consumption of blue cheese or opt for reduced-fat varieties.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80-100 per ounce (28 grams) |
| Fat | 8.1 grams per ounce (28 grams) |
| Saturated Fat | 5.3 grams per ounce (28 grams) |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2.2 grams per ounce (28 grams) |
| Carbohydrates | Less than 1 gram per ounce (28 grams) |
| Protein | 6.1 grams per ounce (28 grams) |
| Vitamins and Minerals | Calcium, Phosphorous, Potassium, Zinc, Vitamin A |
| Sodium | 14% of the RDA per ounce (28 grams) |
| Health Benefits | May improve heart health, reduce inflammation, boost cognitive function, protect against age-related memory decline and dementia |
| Risks | High in sodium, may add excess calories and saturated fat to the diet, contains lactose |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- Blue cheese is high in fat, with 8.1 grams of fat per ounce
- It is also high in sodium, with 14% of the RDA of sodium per ounce
- Blue cheese is a good source of protein, with 6.1 grams per ounce
- It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and potassium
- Blue cheese is available in reduced-fat and reduced-sodium varieties
Blue cheese is high in fat, with 8.1 grams of fat per ounce
Blue cheese is a delicious and flavourful cheese variety, but it is also high in fat. Specifically, a 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of blue cheese contains 8.1 grams of fat. This constitutes 72% of the calories in blue cheese. Of these 8.1 grams, 5.3 grams are saturated fatty acids, and 2.2 grams are monounsaturated fatty acids.
Blue cheese is made using a type of mould called Penicillium roqueforti, which is mixed with milk to initiate the fermentation process. After the cheese solidifies, cheesemakers pierce it with stainless steel needles to create air pathways, which later develop into the characteristic blue veins of mould. Although blue cheese contains mould, it is non-toxic and safe for human consumption.
Blue cheese is a nutrient-dense food, offering a range of vitamins, minerals, and natural compounds with health benefits. For example, it is an excellent source of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and vitamin A. These nutrients are essential for maintaining bone health, supporting immune function, and promoting overall well-being.
Despite the benefits, blue cheese should be consumed in moderation due to its high-fat content. Those following a low-calorie or low-fat diet may want to limit their intake or opt for reduced-fat blue cheese varieties. Reduced-fat blue cheese has 80 calories per ounce (28 grams) and 5 grams of fat, making it a more calorie-conscious option.
Antipasto Salad: Blue Cheese, Yes or No?
You may want to see also
It is also high in sodium, with 14% of the RDA of sodium per ounce
Blue cheese is a nutrient-dense food that contains various vitamins, minerals, and natural compounds that are beneficial to health. However, it is also high in sodium, with 14% of the RDA of sodium per ounce. This is something to be aware of, as the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that people over 14 years old consume no more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day. Therefore, those watching their sodium intake may want to limit their consumption of blue cheese or opt for a reduced-sodium variety.
The high sodium content in blue cheese is due to the fact that it is a dairy product. Dairy products contain natural sugars, such as lactose, and can be high in sodium. However, blue cheese also provides other essential nutrients, such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and vitamin A. For example, a 1-ounce serving of blue cheese provides 10% of the RDA of calcium, 13% of the RDA of phosphorus, and 29% of the RDA of vitamin A.
While blue cheese can be a good source of these nutrients, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high sodium, fat, and calorie content. Those watching their sodium intake may want to opt for lower-sodium cheeses, such as mozzarella, or look for specific low-sodium options within the blue cheese variety. Additionally, blue cheese is available in reduced-fat varieties, which can be a healthier option for those concerned about their fat intake.
It is worth noting that blue cheese contains a substance called spermidine, which has been linked to improved heart health and increased longevity in some studies. Despite this potential benefit, overconsumption of blue cheese can still add excess calories and saturated fat to the diet, which may increase the risk of heart disease. As such, it is important to enjoy blue cheese as part of a balanced diet and be mindful of the overall sodium and fat content.
Blue Cheese's Acidic Nature: What's the Science?
You may want to see also
Blue cheese is a good source of protein, with 6.1 grams per ounce
Blue cheese is a nutrient-dense food that contains various vitamins, minerals, and natural compounds that are beneficial to health. In addition to the nutrients already mentioned, blue cheese contains zinc and vitamin A. It also contains a substance called spermidine, which has been associated with improved heart health and increased longevity in studies on mice and rats.
However, blue cheese is also high in fat, calories, and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation. A 1-ounce serving of blue cheese contains 8.1 grams of fat, of which 5.3 grams are saturated fat. This type of fat can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. Blue cheese is also high in potassium and phosphorus, so people with kidney disease should consult a specialist before consuming it.
Reduced-fat blue cheese is available and has 80 calories per ounce and 5 grams of fat. Blue cheese is also used in small quantities as an ingredient in some low-fat salad dressings, which are made with Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and vinegar.
Blue Cheese and Ranch: Similar or Distinct Condiments?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and potassium
Blue cheese is a nutrient-dense food that contains several vitamins and minerals essential for good health. It is particularly rich in calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.
A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of blue cheese provides 10% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in muscle function and blood pressure regulation.
Phosphorus is another important mineral found in blue cheese, with a 1-ounce serving providing 13% of the RDA. Phosphorus works together with calcium to support bone health and is also involved in energy production and kidney function.
Blue cheese is also a good source of potassium, offering 2% of the RDA per 1-ounce serving. Potassium is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
In addition to these key minerals, blue cheese contains other beneficial vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, zinc, and sodium. It is also a source of high-quality dairy protein and beneficial bacteria from fermentation.
While blue cheese offers these important nutrients, it is also high in fat, calories, and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Reduced-fat and reduced-sodium options are available for those watching their intake of these nutrients.
Blue Cheese and Spinach Salad: A Match Made in Heaven?
You may want to see also
Blue cheese is available in reduced-fat and reduced-sodium varieties
Blue cheese is a nutrient-dense food that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and natural compounds. It is a good source of protein and beneficial bacteria from fermentation. However, it is also high in fat, calories, and sodium. For this reason, blue cheese should be consumed in moderation.
Blue cheese is typically made with full-fat cow's milk. The type of milk used, the length of ripening, and the resulting texture and flavor all contribute to the nutritional content of the cheese. For example, blue cheese made with low-fat or non-dairy milk will have a lower fat content than those made with full-fat cow's milk.
In addition to reduced-fat options, there are also recipes for low-fat creamy blue cheese dressings. These dressings are made with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and seasoning. They provide a lighter option for those who want to enjoy the flavor of blue cheese without the high fat content.
Lettuce and Blue Cheese: Carb Counts and Nutrition Facts
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Blue cheese is typically high in fat, with 8.1 grams of fat per ounce (28 grams), of which 5.3 grams are saturated fatty acids. However, reduced-fat blue cheese options are available, which have 5 grams of fat per ounce.
Blue cheese is a nutrient-dense food that provides various vitamins, minerals, and natural compounds that are beneficial to health. It is rich in dairy protein, calcium, phosphorous, potassium, zinc, and vitamin A. Blue cheese also contains a substance called spermidine, which has been associated with improved heart health and increased longevity.
Blue cheese is high in fat, calories, and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation. Overconsumption of blue cheese can add excess calories and saturated fat to the diet, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Reduced-fat blue cheese options are available, which have lower fat content. Additionally, when using blue cheese as an ingredient, you can use less of it or substitute part of the amount with a lower-fat cheese to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
