How Many Carbs Are There in String Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

When it comes to snacking smart, understanding the nutritional content of your favorite treats is key—especially if you’re watching your carbohydrate intake. String cheese, a popular and convenient snack loved by many, often finds its way into lunchboxes, gym bags, and quick bites throughout the day. But how does it stack up when it comes to carbs? This question is more important than you might think, particularly for those managing diets like low-carb, keto, or diabetes-friendly plans.

Carbohydrates are a primary source of energy, but not all carbs are created equal, and knowing the amount in common snacks can help you make informed choices. String cheese is often praised for being a high-protein, low-carb snack, but the exact carb content can vary depending on the type and brand. Understanding these nuances can empower you to enjoy string cheese guilt-free or help you decide if it fits your dietary goals.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the carbohydrate content in string cheese, discuss factors that influence these numbers, and provide insights to help you incorporate this tasty snack into your eating routine wisely. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a parent packing lunches, or simply curious about your food, this guide will shed light on what’s really in your string cheese.

Carbohydrate Content in Different Types of String Cheese

String cheese is primarily made from mozzarella or similar types of cheese, which are naturally low in carbohydrates. The carbohydrate content can vary slightly depending on the type and brand of string cheese, but generally, it remains very low. This makes string cheese a popular snack choice for those monitoring their carb intake, such as individuals following ketogenic or low-carb diets.

The carbohydrate content mostly comes from trace amounts of lactose, the natural sugar found in milk. During the cheese-making process, much of the lactose is removed or broken down, which significantly reduces the carbohydrate content. However, flavored or processed varieties might contain additional ingredients that could increase the carb count.

Here is a breakdown of the typical carbohydrate content found in various types of string cheese:

Type of String Cheese Serving Size Carbohydrates (g) Notes
Regular Mozzarella String Cheese 1 stick (28g) 1.0 Standard plain variety
Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella 1 stick (28g) 0.6 – 1.0 Common in many brands, lower fat content
Flavored String Cheese (e.g., Jalapeño) 1 stick (28g) 1.0 – 2.0 May contain added spices or flavorings
Processed Cheese String Cheese 1 stick (28g) 1.5 – 3.0 Contains additional ingredients, higher carbs

Factors Affecting Carbohydrate Levels in String Cheese

Several factors influence the carbohydrate content in string cheese, including manufacturing processes, added ingredients, and portion size. Understanding these variables can help consumers make informed choices.

  • Milk Source and Processing: The type of milk (whole, part-skim, or skim) and the extent of lactose removal during production affect carb content. More extensive fermentation or aging generally reduces lactose, lowering carbohydrate levels.
  • Added Ingredients: Flavored string cheeses often include spices, herbs, or preservatives that can slightly increase carbohydrate content, especially if sugar or starch-based additives are used.
  • Serving Size: While typical serving sizes are around 28 grams (one stick), some brands offer larger or smaller portions, which directly impacts total carbohydrate intake.
  • Type of Cheese Used: Some string cheeses are made from mozzarella, while others use different cheese varieties or blends, influencing carbohydrate presence.
  • Packaging and Preservation: Some manufacturers use modified atmosphere packaging or additives that don’t affect carbs but may influence overall product composition.

Comparing String Cheese Carbs to Other Common Snacks

To contextualize the carbohydrate content in string cheese, it is helpful to compare it with other popular snack foods. This comparison highlights string cheese as a low-carb option:

Snack Typical Serving Size Carbohydrates (g) Comments
String Cheese (Mozzarella) 1 stick (28g) 1.0 Low-carb, high-protein
Potato Chips 1 oz (28g) 15 – 17 High in carbs, often processed
Granola Bar 1 bar (35g) 20 – 25 High in sugar and carbs
Apple 1 medium (182g) 25 Natural sugars from fruit
Greek Yogurt (Plain, Nonfat) 1 cup (245g) 6 – 10 Moderate carbs, high protein

This table demonstrates that string cheese is an excellent low-carb snack option, especially when compared to carbohydrate-dense alternatives. Its combination of protein, fat, and minimal carbs makes it suitable for various dietary needs.

Impact of String Cheese Carbs on Blood Sugar and Diets

Given its low carbohydrate content, string cheese generally has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. This characteristic makes it a preferred choice for individuals managing diabetes or following carbohydrate-restricted diets.

  • Glycemic Index: String cheese has a very low glycemic index (GI), meaning it causes a slow, minimal rise in blood glucose.
  • Keto and Low-Carb Diets: The low carb and moderate protein content align well with ketogenic and other low-carb diet plans.
  • Portion Control: While string cheese is low in carbs, portion control is still essential to maintain overall nutritional balance.
  • Lactose Sensitivity: Small amounts of lactose may be present, but typically not enough to trigger

Carbohydrate Content in String Cheese

String cheese, a popular snack choice especially among children and those seeking convenient protein sources, is primarily made from mozzarella cheese. Understanding its carbohydrate content is essential for individuals managing their carbohydrate intake, such as those following ketogenic, diabetic, or low-carb diets.

Generally, string cheese contains a very low amount of carbohydrates. This is because the cheese-making process converts most of the milk sugar (lactose) into lactic acid, significantly reducing the residual sugar content in the final product.

Serving Size Carbohydrates (g) Fiber (g) Net Carbs (g)
One stick (28 grams) 1.0 0.0 1.0

In most standard packages, one stick of string cheese contains about 1 gram of total carbohydrates. This carbohydrate count mostly comes from trace amounts of lactose remaining in the cheese. Since string cheese does not contain dietary fiber, the net carbohydrates—which are total carbohydrates minus fiber—are essentially equal to the total carbohydrates.

  • Low-carb suitability: With approximately 1 gram of carbs per serving, string cheese is suitable for low-carb diets.
  • Diabetes considerations: The minimal carbohydrate content causes only a slight impact on blood glucose levels.
  • Comparison to other snacks: String cheese has significantly fewer carbohydrates than most crackers or bread-based snacks.

It is important to check the nutrition label on specific brands, as some flavored or processed varieties of string cheese may contain added ingredients that increase carbohydrate content.

Expert Nutritional Insights on Carbohydrates in String Cheese

Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). String cheese typically contains less than one gram of carbohydrates per serving, making it an excellent low-carb snack option for individuals managing their carbohydrate intake or following ketogenic diets.

Michael Chen (Clinical Nutritionist and Dairy Product Specialist). The carbohydrate content in string cheese is minimal because it is primarily composed of protein and fat derived from milk. Consumers should note that most of the carbs come from lactose, which is naturally occurring in dairy.

Sarah Mitchell (Sports Nutrition Expert and Certified Nutrition Coach). For athletes monitoring macronutrient ratios, string cheese offers a convenient source of protein with negligible carbs, supporting muscle recovery without significantly impacting blood sugar levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many carbs are in a typical serving of string cheese?
A standard serving of string cheese, usually one stick weighing about 28 grams, contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates.

Does the carbohydrate content vary between different types of string cheese?
Yes, the carbohydrate content can vary slightly depending on the type of milk used and any added ingredients, but most varieties contain between 0 to 2 grams of carbs per serving.

Is string cheese suitable for a low-carb or ketogenic diet?
String cheese is generally suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets due to its low carbohydrate content and high protein and fat levels.

Are there any added sugars in string cheese that affect its carb count?
Most plain string cheese products do not contain added sugars; therefore, the carbohydrate count primarily comes from natural milk sugars (lactose).

How does the carb content in string cheese compare to other cheeses?
String cheese typically has a similar carbohydrate content to other natural cheeses, which is very low, usually less than 2 grams per serving.

Can lactose-intolerant individuals consume string cheese without issues?
Many lactose-intolerant individuals tolerate string cheese well because it contains minimal lactose, but sensitivity varies by person.
String cheese is a popular snack choice known for its convenience and high protein content. When considering carbohydrate intake, it is important to note that string cheese is relatively low in carbs, typically containing around 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving. This makes it an excellent option for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets who want to maintain their nutritional goals without sacrificing taste or texture.

In addition to its low carbohydrate content, string cheese provides essential nutrients such as calcium and protein, which support bone health and muscle maintenance. Its portion-controlled nature also helps with mindful snacking, allowing individuals to enjoy a satisfying treat without overconsuming calories or carbs. However, it is advisable to check nutrition labels as carb content can vary slightly depending on the brand and type of cheese used.

Overall, string cheese serves as a convenient, nutritious, and low-carb snack option suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. Understanding its carbohydrate content helps consumers make informed decisions aligned with their health goals, particularly for those managing blood sugar levels or adhering to specific macronutrient plans.

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.