String cheese: it’s a fun, portable, and popular snack. Kids love peeling it, and adults appreciate its convenience. But if you’re watching what you eat, you might be wondering, just how many calories are in a string cheese?
This article breaks down the calorie count and nutritional value of string cheese, so you can make informed choices about your snacking habits. We’ll also take a look at the key nutritional components of string cheese, including protein, fat, and calcium.
What is String Cheese?
String cheese is usually made from part-skim milk that’s heated and stretched until it forms long, stringy fibers. This process gives it its signature texture and makes it fun to peel and eat.
The ingredient list is usually pretty simple: cultured pasteurized part-skim milk, salt, and enzymes. Some brands might add other stuff.
You can find string cheese from brands like Essential Everyday and other common brands at most grocery stores.
Calories and Macronutrients in String Cheese
If you’re counting calories, you’re probably wondering how string cheese fits into your daily plan.
Calorie Count
On average, one serving (1 oz or 28g) of string cheese contains roughly 80 to 85 calories. Keep in mind that this is an average. The exact number can vary slightly depending on the brand and the specific type of cheese.
Macronutrient Composition
Here’s a quick look at the macronutrients you’ll find in a serving of string cheese:
- Fat: You’ll get about 5.8 to 6 grams of fat per serving, including saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats.
- Protein: String cheese offers a decent protein boost, with approximately 6.7 to 7 grams per serving. That protein can help you feel full and satisfied.
- Carbohydrates: String cheese is pretty low in carbs, with only about 1.3 grams per serving, and very little sugar.
Vitamins and minerals in string cheese
String cheese contains several vitamins and minerals that are important for your health:
- Calcium: String cheese provides about 20% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones.
- Vitamin B12: You’ll get about 20% of the RDA of vitamin B12 in one serving of string cheese. Vitamin B12 keeps your nerves working and helps your body make red blood cells.
- Selenium: String cheese gives you roughly 14% of the selenium you need each day. Selenium acts as an antioxidant and keeps your immune system strong.
Health Benefits of String Cheese
Besides being a quick and easy snack, string cheese offers some nutritional benefits, too.
Bone Health
String cheese is a good source of calcium, a mineral that’s essential for strong bones. Getting enough calcium may help prevent osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to fractures.
String cheese also contains vitamin B12, which has been linked to bone mineral density. Research suggests that a B12 deficiency may increase the risk of hip fractures.
Satiety and Weight Management
The protein and fat in string cheese can help you feel full and satisfied, which may help reduce hunger and support weight management goals. When you’re not feeling hungry, you’re less likely to reach for less nutritious foods.
Immune Support
String cheese provides a small amount of selenium, a mineral that plays a role in supporting immune function.
Things to consider about string cheese
As with any food, there are a few things to keep in mind about string cheese.
Sodium content
Most string cheese has around 200mg of sodium per serving. If you have high blood pressure, you’ll need to factor that into your daily sodium counts.
Allergies and lactose intolerance
If you’re allergic to dairy, steer clear of string cheese.
If you’re lactose intolerant, you might be able to tolerate string cheese. String cheese is naturally low in lactose, but it’s best to check with your doctor or a registered dietitian before consuming it.
Putting It All Together
String cheese is a convenient and generally healthy snack that offers a reasonable number of calories and a bit of protein. It can be part of a balanced diet when you eat it in moderation.
When deciding whether string cheese fits your needs, think about your individual preferences and dietary goals. You can always choose a low-fat or reduced-sodium variety.
For the most accurate information about the calorie count and nutrition in your favorite brand, be sure to check the product packaging.