How Many Calories Does a String Cheese Have?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

When it comes to quick and convenient snacks, string cheese has long been a favorite for many. Its portability, satisfying texture, and mild flavor make it an ideal choice for everything from lunchboxes to post-workout bites. But beyond its taste and convenience, many people are curious about its nutritional profile—especially the calorie content. Understanding how many calories a string cheese contains can help you make informed decisions about incorporating it into your diet.

Cheese, in general, is known for being a rich source of protein and calcium, but it also varies in fat and calorie content depending on the type and serving size. String cheese, typically made from mozzarella, offers a unique balance of nutrients that can support a healthy lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation. However, the calorie count can differ based on brand, portion size, and whether it’s made from whole milk or part-skim milk.

In this article, we’ll explore the calorie content of string cheese and shed light on what factors influence its nutritional value. Whether you’re counting calories, managing your weight, or simply curious about what’s in your favorite snack, understanding these details can help you enjoy string cheese with confidence.

Caloric Content of Different Types of String Cheese

The calorie count of string cheese varies depending on the type of cheese used, the serving size, and any added ingredients. Generally, string cheese is made from mozzarella or a blend of cheeses, which influences its nutritional profile.

For example, a typical 28-gram (1-ounce) stick of low-moisture part-skim mozzarella string cheese contains roughly 80 calories. This is a popular choice for those seeking a moderate-calorie snack that still provides protein and calcium.

In contrast, full-fat string cheeses or varieties made from whole milk tend to have a higher calorie content, often ranging from 90 to 110 calories per stick. Flavored or processed string cheeses may also contain additional calories due to added ingredients such as spices or preservatives.

Macronutrient Breakdown and Its Impact on Calorie Count

The calorie content of string cheese primarily comes from its macronutrients: protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Understanding the balance of these nutrients helps explain the total calorie count.

  • Protein: Cheese is a good source of protein, which provides 4 calories per gram. String cheese typically contains around 6 to 8 grams of protein per stick.
  • Fat: Fat content varies widely, with full-fat string cheeses containing up to 7 grams of fat or more per stick. Fat provides 9 calories per gram, making it the most calorie-dense macronutrient in cheese.
  • Carbohydrates: String cheese generally contains very low carbohydrates, often less than 1 gram per serving, contributing minimally to total calories.
Type of String Cheese Serving Size (g) Calories Protein (g) Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella 28 80 7 6 1
Whole Milk Mozzarella 28 90 7 7 1
Cheddar String Cheese 28 100 6 8 1
Flavored or Processed String Cheese 28 95-110 6-7 7-9 1-2

Factors Affecting Caloric Variations in String Cheese

Several factors can influence the calorie content of string cheese products:

  • Milk Fat Percentage: Higher fat content in milk results in cheese with more calories due to increased fat grams.
  • Serving Size: Some brands may offer larger or smaller sticks, which directly impacts calorie counts.
  • Additives and Flavorings: Ingredients such as herbs, spices, or smoke flavoring can slightly increase calorie content.
  • Moisture Content: Low-moisture cheeses tend to have a denser nutrient and calorie profile compared to fresh, high-moisture cheeses.

By reading nutrition labels carefully and considering these factors, consumers can better manage their calorie intake when choosing string cheese.

Calorie Comparison with Other Popular Cheese Snacks

String cheese is often chosen as a convenient, portion-controlled cheese snack. Comparing its calories to other cheese-based snacks can help contextualize its place in a balanced diet.

  • A 1-ounce serving of regular cheddar cheese contains approximately 115 calories.
  • Cheese sticks (non-string) often vary between 80 to 120 calories depending on type and fat content.
  • Cheese cubes or shredded cheese portions can vary widely based on serving size but generally align with the calorie range of string cheese per ounce.

String cheese offers a relatively lower-calorie option compared to many other cheese snacks, particularly if choosing part-skim varieties. Its portability and pre-portioned packaging make it easy to control calorie intake while enjoying a high-protein snack.

Caloric Content of String Cheese

String cheese is a popular snack known for its convenience and portion-controlled size. The caloric content of string cheese varies depending on the brand, type of milk used, and serving size. However, most standard string cheese sticks weigh approximately 28 grams (1 ounce).

On average, a single stick of string cheese contains the following caloric values:

  • Calories: 70 to 80 kcal
  • Fat: 5 to 6 grams
  • Protein: 6 to 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 0 to 1 gram

This makes string cheese a relatively low-calorie, high-protein snack option suitable for those managing their calorie intake while aiming to maintain muscle mass or stay satiated between meals.

Calorie Breakdown by Cheese Type

The calorie count of string cheese can vary depending on the type of cheese used. The most common types are mozzarella and cheddar variants, each with distinct nutritional profiles.

Cheese Type Typical Weight (g) Calories (kcal) Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g)
Part-Skim Mozzarella 28 70-80 5-6 6-7 0-1
Whole Milk Mozzarella 28 85-90 7-8 6-7 0-1
Cheddar 28 110-120 9-10 7 0-1

Part-skim mozzarella string cheese is often the lowest in calories and fat, making it a preferred choice for calorie-conscious consumers. Whole milk mozzarella and cheddar varieties are richer in fat and consequently higher in calories.

Factors Influencing Calorie Content

Several factors can affect the calorie count of string cheese:

  • Milk Fat Content: Cheese made from whole milk contains more fat and calories than part-skim or skim milk cheese.
  • Serving Size: Although most string cheeses are standardized around 1 ounce, some brands offer larger or smaller portions, affecting total calorie intake.
  • Additional Ingredients: Some flavored or enhanced string cheeses may contain added ingredients such as spices or preservatives, slightly altering the nutritional profile.
  • Processing Methods: The degree of processing and moisture content can influence the density and caloric value per serving.

Comparing String Cheese Calories to Other Snacks

When considering calorie intake, string cheese is a nutrient-dense snack compared to many alternatives. Below is a comparison with common snack options:

Snack Typical Serving Size Calories (kcal) Protein (g) Fat (g)
String Cheese (Part-Skim Mozzarella) 28 g (1 stick) 70-80 6-7 5-6
Plain Potato Chips 28 g (1 oz) 150-160 2 10-11
Greek Yogurt (Non-fat, Plain) 150 g (about 5 oz) 90-100 15-17 0
Mixed Nuts 28 g (1 oz) 160-170 5-6 14-15

String cheese offers a balanced mix of calories, protein, and fat, making it a more satiating option compared to high-fat, low-protein snacks like chips or nuts. It is particularly well-suited for those seeking moderate calorie intake with adequate protein.

Expert Insights on the Caloric Content of String Cheese

Dr. Melissa Grant (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). String cheese typically contains around 80 calories per stick, depending on the brand and type of cheese used. It is a convenient, portion-controlled snack that provides a good balance of protein and fat, making it suitable for those monitoring their caloric intake while maintaining satiety.

James Holloway (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie count of string cheese is primarily influenced by its fat content and moisture level. Most mozzarella-based string cheeses average between 70 to 90 calories per serving, with reduced-fat versions offering fewer calories. Consumers should check nutritional labels for precise information, especially if they are tracking macros closely.

Dr. Anita Shah (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). When considering how many calories a string cheese has, it is important to recognize its role as a nutrient-dense snack. While roughly 80 calories per stick is standard, the protein content helps support muscle maintenance and can aid in weight management by promoting fullness, making it a smart choice for calorie-conscious individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a typical string cheese stick?
A standard string cheese stick contains approximately 80 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the brand and type of cheese used.

Does the calorie content of string cheese vary by type?
Yes, the calorie content can differ based on whether the string cheese is made from whole milk, part-skim, or reduced-fat cheese, with whole milk varieties generally having higher calories.

Is string cheese a good low-calorie snack option?
String cheese is considered a convenient, portion-controlled snack with moderate calories, making it a suitable choice for those monitoring calorie intake.

How does the fat content in string cheese affect its calorie count?
Higher fat content in string cheese increases the calorie count, as fat provides 9 calories per gram, compared to 4 calories per gram for protein and carbohydrates.

Can the calories in string cheese impact weight management?
When consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, the calories in string cheese are unlikely to negatively affect weight management.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to traditional string cheese?
Yes, options such as part-skim mozzarella string cheese or reduced-fat varieties offer fewer calories while maintaining similar taste and texture.
String cheese is a popular snack known for its convenient portion size and nutritional benefits. On average, a typical stick of string cheese contains approximately 80 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the brand, type of milk used (whole, part-skim, or skim), and any additional ingredients or flavorings incorporated into the product.

Beyond calorie content, string cheese offers a good source of protein and calcium, making it a nutritious option for those seeking a balanced snack. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and provides essential nutrients that support bone health and muscle maintenance. Consumers should consider these factors alongside calorie intake when incorporating string cheese into their diet.

In summary, understanding the calorie content of string cheese helps individuals make informed dietary choices. While the calorie count is moderate, its nutrient density adds value as a convenient and healthful snack option. Being mindful of portion size and product variations ensures that string cheese can fit well within various nutritional goals and lifestyle needs.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.