Kamil Perry
Brie is a soft cheese with a distinctive white rind, usually served with bread, crackers, fruit, or jam. It is a good source of protein, containing 5.9 grams of protein per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving, with 25% of the calories coming from protein. Brie is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12. While it is high in fat and sodium, consuming brie in moderation as part of a balanced diet can provide nutritional benefits. However, those with lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies should limit or avoid its consumption.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nutritional value | Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals |
| Vitamins | B12, A, K2 |
| Minerals | Calcium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, iron, magnesium |
| Other nutrients | Riboflavin, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), casein |
| Calories | 95-100 calories per 1 ounce (28 grams) |
| Fat content | 7.9-8 grams per 1 ounce (28 grams) |
| Saturated fat | 4.93-5 grams per 1 ounce (28 grams) |
| Monounsaturated fats | 2.27 grams per 1 ounce (28 grams) |
| Polyunsaturated fats | 0.23 grams per 1 ounce (28 grams) |
| Lactose | Low lactose content |
| Gluten | Gluten-free |
| Allergies | Not suitable for those with milk protein allergies |
| Serving size | 1 ounce (28 grams) |
| Health benefits | May aid weight loss, supports bone health, promotes healthy skin and vision, anti-inflammatory properties, may have anticancer effects |
| Health risks | High salt content, may cause bloating or constipation if consumed in large quantities, risk of high blood pressure for salt-sensitive individuals |
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What You'll Learn
Brie's nutritional value
Brie is a soft cow's milk cheese that originated in France but is now popular worldwide. It is a high-fat, nutrient-rich cheese, containing protein and fat, as well as several vitamins and minerals.
A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of brie has 95 calories, 5.9 grams of protein, and 7.9 grams of fat. Approximately 25% of the calories are from protein and 76% are from fat. Brie is created with full-fat milk, and during the cheese-making process, the water and whey are removed while the casein that curdles forms the cheese. Casein, the milk protein found in most cheeses, is a high-quality protein popular in the bodybuilding and fitness communities due to its long-lasting protein-fueling effects.
Brie is a good source of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, iron, magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, and riboflavin. It is also low in lactose and gluten-free. The cheese gets its characteristic earthy and fruity flavour from biochemical changes that occur during the ripening process.
Brie can be eaten in moderation as part of a nutritious diet. It may promote feelings of fullness and aid in weight loss and appetite control. However, it is a high-sodium food, and those with high blood pressure or following a low-sodium diet should consult a healthcare provider before including it in their diet. Additionally, people with a milk protein allergy should not consume brie.
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Health benefits of brie
Brie is a soft cheese with a white rind that forms during the ripening process. It is typically served with bread, crackers, fruit, or jam. While it is high in fat, brie also contains a range of nutrients that offer health benefits when consumed in moderation.
Firstly, brie is a good source of protein, providing as much protein as a medium egg per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving. This protein is vital for muscle repair and growth, and it also helps you stay fuller for longer, aiding weight loss and appetite control.
Secondly, brie contains several essential vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of vitamin B12, which is required for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and energy production. A lack of vitamin B12 can lead to megaloblastic anemia, causing weakness and fatigue. Brie also contains riboflavin (vitamin B2), which aids in energy production and cellular function. Additionally, brie is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health and strength, and vitamin A, which is important for immune system response, healthy skin, and vision.
Furthermore, brie contains beneficial fats, including conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been linked to reduced body fat and improved metabolic health. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which support
Finally, brie contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome, aid digestion, boost the immune system, and may even improve mood and mental health.
In conclusion, when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, brie cheese can offer several health benefits due to its rich nutrient content.
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Risks and side effects of eating brie
Brie is a soft cheese with a white rind that forms during the ripening process. While it is a good source of protein, there are some risks and potential side effects associated with consuming brie cheese.
Firstly, brie has a relatively high carbon footprint compared to other foods, and it takes a significant amount of water to produce cheese, which is a finite and non-renewable resource. Therefore, excessive consumption of brie may have negative environmental implications.
Additionally, brie is a dairy product, and as such, it contains lactose and milk proteins. While cheeses are generally well tolerated due to the conversion of lactose during the cheesemaking process, individuals with lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies should be cautious when consuming brie. Lactose intolerance can lead to bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain, and IBS. In the case of milk protein allergies, symptoms such as hives, skin rash, swelling, itchy mouth or throat, and difficulty swallowing can occur.
Furthermore, brie is a high-fat cheese, containing saturated fats that have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and elevated cholesterol levels. Overconsumption of saturated fats can also trigger an inflammatory response and potentially increase the risk of certain cancers, including colorectal, prostate, and breast cancers.
Another risk associated with soft cheeses like brie is bacterial contamination, particularly with Listeria monocytogenes. Improper storage or handling of brie can increase the risk of exposure to Listeria, which can cause foodborne illnesses, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and the elderly. Listeriosis can lead to flu-like symptoms and severe complications, including miscarriage or stillbirth in pregnant women.
Moreover, consuming spoiled or bad brie can also lead to foodborne illnesses, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe health problems requiring hospitalization. Spoilage of brie can be identified by several indicators, including an ammonia-like odor, excessive moisture or sliminess on the rind, discoloration, and unusual tastes or odors.
Lastly, while brie may promote feelings of fullness and aid in weight loss when consumed in moderation, excessive consumption of any cheese can lead to constipation.
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Recommended serving size
Brie cheese is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a soft cheese with a white rind, usually served with bread, crackers, fruit, or jam.
The recommended serving size of Brie is 1 ounce (28 grams), which is about the size of your thumb. This serving size contains approximately 95 calories, 5.9 grams of protein, and 7.9 grams of fat. Of the nearly 8 grams of fat, 4.93 grams are saturated fat, 2.27 grams are monounsaturated fats, and 0.23 grams are polyunsaturated fats.
Eating Brie in moderation as part of a balanced diet is generally considered healthy. However, excessive consumption may lead to a high-calorie intake and potential side effects such as bloating or constipation. Additionally, Brie has a moderate to high salt content, contributing to its savoury flavour profile, but excessive salt intake can have negative health impacts, especially for those with hypertension.
It is important to note that Brie is not suitable for individuals with a milk protein allergy or lactose intolerance, and pregnant women should avoid unpasteurized varieties.
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How to store brie
Storing brie cheese correctly is essential to maintaining its quality and safety. Here are some detailed guidelines on how to store brie cheese:
Storing a Whole Wheel of Brie
If you have an intact wheel of brie, it is best to keep it in its original wrapping. This type of packaging is designed to maintain the right balance of moisture and airflow. The original wrapping helps keep the cheese moist while also allowing it to breathe. If you intend to consume the cheese over several days, consider unwrapping it and rewrapping it daily.
Storing a Cut Piece of Brie
If you have a cut piece of brie, it is best to avoid storing it for extended periods. Ideally, buy only as much as you plan to consume within a few days. When storing a cut piece, avoid using plastic wrap as it can trap moisture and cut off the airflow, leading to spoilage. Instead, opt for an open container, like an open plastic sandwich bag or a wax paper/parchment wrapping, to allow the cheese to breathe. You can also place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture. Store the brie in the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator to prevent it from absorbing strong odours.
Storing Brie Long-Term
If you need to store brie for an extended period, freezing is an option. However, freezing will alter the texture and flavour of the cheese, making it less desirable. To freeze brie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Consume or freeze brie within 1-3 weeks of opening the package, as it will continue to ripen in the refrigerator.
General Tips for Storing Brie
- Always store brie in the refrigerator at around 40°F (4°C).
- Check the cheese for discoloured spots or cracks in the rind if it was purchased wrapped in plastic.
- Brie is prone to spoilage and bacterial contamination, so inspect the cheese regularly and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for consumption by the expiration date.
- If the cheese looks and smells normal past its use-by date and has been pasteurized, it is generally safe to consume, but high-risk individuals like children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems should avoid it.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, brie cheese is a good source of protein. It contains various amino acids that are essential for bodily functions.
A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of brie cheese contains 5.9 grams of protein.
Brie cheese is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It contains vitamin B12, which is important for energy production and bone health, as well as vitamin A, which is important for immune system response and healthy skin and vision.
The recommended serving size of brie is 1 ounce (28 grams), which is about the size of your thumb. Eating excessive amounts may cause bloating or constipation and lead to a high calorie intake.
Brie cheese is high in fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is also not suitable for people with milk protein allergies or lactose intolerance.
