How Many Calories Are in a Thin Slice of Swiss Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Nutrition & Health

When it comes to making mindful food choices, understanding the calorie content of everyday ingredients is essential. Swiss cheese, with its distinctive holes and mild, nutty flavor, is a popular addition to sandwiches, salads, and snacks. But if you’re keeping an eye on your calorie intake, you might wonder: how many calories are in a thin slice of Swiss cheese?

Cheese lovers often find themselves balancing taste and nutrition, especially when portion sizes vary. A thin slice might seem negligible, but even small servings contribute to your daily energy intake. Exploring the calorie count of Swiss cheese slices can help you make informed decisions, whether you’re aiming to lose weight, maintain a healthy diet, or simply satisfy a craving without overindulging.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the calorie content of Swiss cheese slices, discuss factors that influence these numbers, and offer insights on how to enjoy this classic cheese while staying aligned with your nutritional goals. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or a health-conscious eater, understanding these details can enhance your approach to balanced eating.

Caloric Content of a Thin Slice of Swiss Cheese

A thin slice of Swiss cheese typically weighs around 7 grams, though this can vary depending on the brand and slicing method. The caloric content of Swiss cheese primarily comes from fats and proteins, with a small contribution from carbohydrates. Swiss cheese is known for its relatively low moisture content and distinctive nutty flavor, which also affects its caloric density.

On average, a thin slice of Swiss cheese contains approximately 25 to 30 calories. This makes it a moderate-calorie option among cheeses, suitable for those monitoring their caloric intake but still wanting to enjoy cheese as part of their diet.

Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g) Calcium (% DV)
1 thin slice (7g) 27 2.2 2.4 0.1 6%

The fat content in Swiss cheese contributes about 70-75% of the calories, with proteins making up most of the remainder. Carbohydrates are minimal, typically less than 1 gram per slice, which aligns with the cheese’s low lactose content due to fermentation.

Factors Affecting Caloric Values in Swiss Cheese Slices

Several factors influence the caloric content of Swiss cheese slices, particularly when considering thin slices:

  • Slice Thickness: Thinner slices naturally contain fewer calories, while thicker slices increase caloric intake proportionally.
  • Moisture Content: Swiss cheese with higher moisture content tends to have slightly fewer calories per gram, as water dilutes the energy density.
  • Fat Content: Swiss cheeses vary in fat levels depending on the milk source and processing methods. Higher-fat Swiss cheese will have increased calorie density.
  • Brand and Processing: Some manufacturers add ingredients or alter processes that can affect the nutrient profile and caloric value.

Comparing Swiss Cheese to Other Cheese Varieties

When considering cheese for calorie-conscious diets, it is useful to compare Swiss cheese with other common cheese types. Swiss cheese generally falls in the mid-range for calories among popular cheeses.

Cheese Type Calories per 7g Slice Total Fat (g) Protein (g)
Swiss Cheese 27 2.2 2.4
Cheddar 28 2.3 1.8
Mozzarella 20 1.6 2.5
Feta 18 1.5 1.4

Swiss cheese offers a balance of protein and fat, making it a filling choice with moderate calorie content. Mozzarella and feta tend to be lower in calories but also vary in flavor and texture, which may affect culinary use.

Nutritional Considerations Beyond Calories

While calories are important, Swiss cheese provides additional nutritional benefits that may influence dietary choices:

  • Calcium: Swiss cheese is a good source of calcium, essential for bone health, contributing about 6% of the daily value in a thin slice.
  • Protein: The protein content supports muscle repair and growth, making it beneficial in balanced diets.
  • Sodium: Swiss cheese typically has moderate sodium levels, lower than many other cheeses, which can be advantageous for individuals monitoring salt intake.
  • Vitamins: Contains vitamins such as Vitamin A and B12, important for immune function and energy metabolism.

When incorporating Swiss cheese into a diet, consider these nutrients alongside calorie content to achieve balanced nutrition.

Caloric Content of a Thin Slice of Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is a popular choice for its distinct flavor and nutritional profile. When considering calorie intake, understanding the caloric content of a thin slice is essential for dietary planning and portion control.

A typical thin slice of Swiss cheese weighs approximately 7 grams. The exact calorie count can vary slightly depending on the brand and specific variety, but standard Swiss cheese generally contains about 380 to 420 calories per 100 grams.

Portion Size Weight (grams) Calories (kcal) Protein (g) Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
Thin Slice 7 27 – 29 2.0 – 2.2 2.2 – 2.5 0.1 – 0.2

These values are averages and provide a reliable estimate for most dietary calculations. The calorie content primarily comes from the fat and protein in the cheese, while carbohydrates are minimal.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Swiss Cheese Slices

Several factors can influence the exact calorie count of a thin slice of Swiss cheese:

  • Thickness of the Slice: Thicker slices naturally contain more calories due to higher weight.
  • Moisture Content: Some Swiss cheese varieties have higher moisture levels, which can slightly reduce calorie density.
  • Fat Content: Reduced-fat or low-fat Swiss cheese options contain fewer calories compared to full-fat versions.
  • Brand and Production Method: Artisanal and industrial processes may result in minor nutritional differences.

For precise tracking, weighing the cheese slice and referring to the product’s nutrition label is recommended.

Nutritional Benefits Beyond Calories

While calorie counting is important, Swiss cheese offers several nutritional advantages that contribute to a balanced diet:

  • High-Quality Protein: Supports muscle repair and growth with all essential amino acids.
  • Calcium: Essential for bone health, with Swiss cheese providing a significant portion of the daily recommended intake.
  • Vitamin B12: Important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
  • Low Lactose Content: Makes Swiss cheese more tolerable for individuals with lactose sensitivity compared to other cheeses.

These nutrients make Swiss cheese a nutrient-dense option despite its calorie content.

Expert Nutritional Insights on Calories in Thin Slices of Swiss Cheese

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A thin slice of Swiss cheese typically contains around 50 to 60 calories, depending on the exact thickness and brand. Given its moderate calorie content, it can be a valuable source of protein and calcium when consumed in controlled portions within a balanced diet.

Michael Thompson (Food Chemist and Dairy Industry Consultant). The caloric content of a thin slice of Swiss cheese is influenced by its fat content and moisture level. On average, a slice weighing about 20 grams contains approximately 55 calories, with the fat contributing the majority of these calories. Understanding these variables helps consumers make informed dietary choices.

Dr. Laura Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Health Expert). From a metabolic perspective, the calories in a thin slice of Swiss cheese provide a dense source of energy and essential nutrients. While the calorie count may seem modest, it is important to consider portion size and overall dietary context to maintain healthy energy balance and nutrient intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a thin slice of Swiss cheese?
A thin slice of Swiss cheese typically contains about 50 to 60 calories, depending on the exact thickness and brand.

What factors affect the calorie content of Swiss cheese slices?
Calorie content varies based on slice thickness, moisture content, and fat percentage in the cheese.

Is Swiss cheese a good option for low-calorie diets?
Swiss cheese can be included in moderation in low-calorie diets due to its relatively moderate calorie count and high protein content.

How does the calorie content of Swiss cheese compare to other cheeses?
Swiss cheese generally has fewer calories than high-fat cheeses like cheddar but more than low-fat cheeses such as mozzarella.

Does the fat content in Swiss cheese significantly impact its calorie count?
Yes, higher fat content increases the calorie count, as fat provides 9 calories per gram, making full-fat Swiss cheese more calorie-dense.

Can the calorie count of Swiss cheese vary between brands?
Yes, different brands may have slight variations in calorie content due to differences in production methods and ingredients.
In summary, a thin slice of Swiss cheese typically contains approximately 50 to 60 calories, depending on the exact thickness and brand. This calorie count is influenced by the cheese’s fat and protein content, making it a nutrient-dense option that provides essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin B12. Understanding the calorie content is crucial for those managing their dietary intake or adhering to specific nutrition goals.

It is important to consider portion size when incorporating Swiss cheese into meals, as even small variations in slice thickness can affect the overall caloric intake. Additionally, Swiss cheese offers a balanced profile of macronutrients, which can support satiety and contribute to a well-rounded diet when consumed in moderation.

Ultimately, being mindful of the calorie content in a thin slice of Swiss cheese allows individuals to make informed dietary choices. This awareness supports maintaining a healthy lifestyle while enjoying the flavor and nutritional benefits that Swiss cheese provides.

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.