Kamil Perry
Cheese is a beloved food for many, but it often gets a bad reputation for being high in fat and calories. However, not all cheeses are created equal, and some varieties boast lower calorie counts than others. This can be due to their moisture content, production methods, or the type of milk used. So, which cheese has the least amount of calories? Let's explore some of the top contenders and uncover the cheesy truth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheeses with the least amount of calories | Cottage cheese, ricotta, Swiss cheese, mozzarella, feta, parmesan, gouda |
| Calories per ounce | Cottage cheese (28), ricotta (49), Swiss cheese (108), mozzarella (80), feta (varies), parmesan (60 for 30g), gouda (101) |
| Calories per slice | Mozzarella (80), feta (25), parmesan (60 for 30g), gouda (52) |
| Other characteristics | Cottage cheese is high in protein, ricotta is easily digestible, Swiss cheese is high in calcium, mozzarella is a good source of microbes, parmesan is a good source of phosphorus, gouda is rich in calcium |
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What You'll Learn
Cottage cheese
A half-cup serving of low-fat (2%) plain cottage cheese contains around 90 calories, 5 grams of carbohydrates, 12 grams of protein, and 2.5 grams of total fat. It also supplies essential vitamins and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and vitamin B12. The full-fat variety has only about 30 more calories per serving than the nonfat option, making it a nutritious choice as well.
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Mozzarella
When compared to other cheeses, mozzarella stands out as a healthier choice due to its lower calorie and sodium content. It is a good option for those watching their calorie intake without wanting to compromise on taste and the pleasure of enjoying cheese.
Overall, mozzarella is a delicious and nutritious cheese option that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, providing both health benefits and culinary enjoyment.
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Feta
In terms of calories, feta is considered a low-calorie cheese. One ounce (28 grams) of feta contains only 74 calories and 6 grams of fat, while an equivalent amount of cheddar or parmesan contains more than 110 calories and 7 grams of fat.
However, it is important to note that feta has a high sodium content and contains saturated fats, which should be limited to less than 10% of your daily calorie intake. For this reason, it may not be recommended for people with certain health conditions, and pregnant women should avoid unpasteurized feta. Overall, feta is a delicious and healthy addition to most diets when consumed in moderation.
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Swiss
In terms of nutritional value, Swiss cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A and B12, zinc, and magnesium. It is also lower in sodium than many other popular cheeses. One slice, or about one ounce (28 grams), of Swiss cheese contains around 100-110 calories, 7.5 grams of protein, 0.5 grams of carbs, 9 grams of fat, and 5 grams of saturated fat. Swiss cheese is considered a slightly hard cheese that holds its shape relatively well at high temperatures, making it suitable for cooking and melting.
When it comes to incorporating Swiss cheese into dishes, it is commonly used in sandwiches, burgers, pastries, omelettes, pasta, and fondue. Its sharp flavour and melting properties make it a versatile ingredient. Swiss cheese also pairs well with other ingredients, such as sun-dried tomatoes in a fondue.
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Parmesan
The calorie content of Parmesan varies depending on the serving size. A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of hard Parmesan provides 16% of the daily value of phosphorus. Parmesan is rich in calcium and phosphorus, which play a role in bone formation and may promote bone health. A serving of 25 grams of Parmigiano Reggiano accounts for 36% of the calcium requirements and 24% of the phosphorus requirements for an adult following a healthy and balanced diet of 2000 calories.
Light Parmesan has 60 calories per 30 grams. Parmesan is also low in lactose, making it a good option for those who are lactose intolerant. The combination of protein and healthy fats in Parmesan can help promote a feeling of fullness, which is beneficial for weight management.
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Frequently asked questions
Cottage cheese has the lowest calorie count per ounce at 28 calories per ounce. It is also a good source of protein, which can help with weight management.
Some other cheeses that are lower in calories include Swiss cheese (108 calories per ounce), mozzarella (80 calories per slice), feta, ricotta (49 calories per ounce), and Parmesan (60 calories for 30g).
Yes, in addition to being a good source of protein, some cheeses like gouda and edam contain compounds that may help lower blood pressure. Eating cheese may also help prevent heart disease and osteoporosis.
