Caution, Cheese Lovers: Is Feta Cheese High In Calories? Find Out Here!
What To Know
- Feta cheese is a brined white cheese made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s and goat’s milk.
- Therefore, it is important to consume feta cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- However, it is not excessively high in calories and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
In the world of cheese, feta stands out as a flavorful and versatile option. But when it comes to calorie content, many wonder: is feta cheese high in calories? This blog post will delve into the nutritional profile of feta cheese, exploring its calorie count and how it compares to other popular cheeses.
Nutritional Value of Feta Cheese
Feta cheese is a brined white cheese made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It has a tangy, salty flavor and a crumbly texture.
Per 100 grams (3.5 ounces), feta cheese contains:
- Calories: 264
- Fat: 21 grams
- Saturated fat: 14 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4 grams
- Protein: 14 grams
- Calcium: 494 mg
- Sodium: 363 mg
Calorie Comparison with Other Cheeses
To put feta cheese‘s calorie content into perspective, let’s compare it to other popular cheeses:
- Cheddar cheese (100g): 403 calories
- Mozzarella cheese (100g): 280 calories
- Parmesan cheese (100g): 431 calories
- Cottage cheese (100g): 98 calories
As you can see, feta cheese falls somewhere in the middle of the calorie spectrum for cheeses. It is lower in calories than Parmesan and cheddar but higher than mozzarella and cottage cheese.
Is Feta Cheese a Healthy Cheese?
While feta cheese is relatively high in calories compared to some other cheeses, it does offer some nutritional benefits. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics.
However, feta cheese is also high in saturated fat and sodium. Saturated fat can raise cholesterol levels, while sodium can contribute to high blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to consume feta cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How to Enjoy Feta Cheese in a Healthy Way
If you enjoy feta cheese, there are ways to incorporate it into your diet without overdoing the calories. Here are a few tips:
- Use it sparingly as a topping on salads, sandwiches, or pizzas.
- Crumble it over grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes.
- Add it to dips and spreads for a tangy flavor.
- Choose low-fat or fat-free feta cheese if available.
Conclusion: Is Feta Cheese High in Calories? Yes, but…
So, is feta cheese high in calories? Yes, compared to some other cheeses. However, it is not excessively high in calories and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. By using it sparingly and choosing low-fat options, you can enjoy the flavorful tang of feta cheese without compromising your calorie goals.
FAQ
1. Is feta cheese healthier than other cheeses?
It depends on the specific cheese you compare it to. Feta cheese is lower in calories than cheddar and Parmesan but higher than mozzarella and cottage cheese. It is also a good source of protein and calcium but high in saturated fat and sodium.
2. Can I eat feta cheese on a diet?
Yes, you can eat feta cheese on a diet if you consume it in moderation. Use it sparingly as a topping or ingredient in your meals. Choose low-fat or fat-free feta cheese if available.
3. How many calories are in a serving of feta cheese?
A 30-gram serving of feta cheese contains approximately 80 calories.