How Many Carbs Are in a String Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

When it comes to quick, convenient snacks, string cheese has long been a favorite for many. Its portability, satisfying texture, and savory flavor make it an ideal choice for those on the go or anyone looking for a simple treat. But for individuals mindful of their carbohydrate intake—whether for weight management, diabetes control, or low-carb dieting—understanding the nutritional profile of string cheese is essential.

Carbohydrates play a significant role in our diet, influencing energy levels and overall health. Knowing how many carbs are in a string cheese can help you make informed decisions about incorporating this snack into your daily routine. Beyond just the carb count, factors like serving size, type of cheese, and added ingredients can all impact its nutritional value.

As we delve deeper, you’ll discover not only the carbohydrate content of string cheese but also how it fits into various dietary plans. Whether you’re counting carbs meticulously or simply curious about what’s in your favorite snack, this guide will provide the clarity you need to enjoy string cheese with confidence.

Carbohydrate Content in Different Types of String Cheese

String cheese is primarily made from mozzarella, a cheese naturally low in carbohydrates. The carbohydrate content varies slightly depending on the brand and any added ingredients, but generally, it remains very low. Most plain mozzarella string cheeses contain less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving, making them an excellent choice for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Several factors can influence the carbohydrate content in string cheese:

  • Type of Milk Used: Cow’s milk is standard, but some cheeses use goat or buffalo milk, which can slightly affect carb levels.
  • Additives: Flavored or processed string cheeses may include ingredients like herbs, spices, or preservatives, which can marginally increase carbohydrate content.
  • Serving Size: Most string cheese sticks weigh between 20 to 28 grams, and the carb count is based on this typical serving size.

To provide clarity, the table below summarizes the approximate carbohydrate content in common varieties of string cheese:

Type of String Cheese Serving Size (g) Carbohydrates (g) Notes
Plain Mozzarella String Cheese 28 0.5 – 1 Most common variety, minimal carbs
Flavored Mozzarella (e.g., Jalapeño) 28 1 – 1.5 Added spices and flavorings slightly increase carbs
Part-Skim String Cheese 28 0.5 – 1 Lower fat, similar carb content
Whole Milk String Cheese 28 0.5 – 1 Higher fat content, carbs remain low

Understanding these variations can help consumers better manage their carbohydrate intake while enjoying string cheese as a snack or part of a meal.

Comparison of Carbohydrates in String Cheese Versus Other Cheeses

Cheeses vary widely in carbohydrate content depending on their type and processing method. String cheese, primarily made from mozzarella, generally has a lower carbohydrate content compared to some other cheese varieties. This difference is due to the lactose content and fermentation processes unique to each cheese type.

For context, here is a comparison of carbohydrates in string cheese and other common cheeses per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving:

  • String Cheese (Mozzarella): 0.5 to 1 gram of carbs
  • Cheddar Cheese: Approximately 0.4 grams of carbs
  • Swiss Cheese: Around 1.5 grams of carbs
  • Parmesan Cheese: About 1 gram of carbs
  • Feta Cheese: Roughly 1.2 grams of carbs

The carbohydrate content is generally low in aged cheeses because the lactose, a sugar found in milk, is broken down during the aging process. Fresh cheeses like mozzarella tend to retain slightly more lactose but still remain low in carbs.

Below is a detailed table comparing carbohydrate content:

Cheese Type Serving Size (g) Carbohydrates (g) Lactose Level
String Cheese (Mozzarella) 28 0.5 – 1 Low
Cheddar 28 0.4 Very Low
Swiss 28 1.5 Low
Parmesan 28 1 Very Low
Feta 28 1.2 Moderate

When choosing cheeses with a focus on carbohydrate content, string cheese stands out as a convenient, low-carb option. It is particularly popular for snacking, meal prepping, and inclusion in low-carb diets due to its portability and portion control.

Impact of Carbohydrates in String Cheese on Diets

The carbohydrate content in string cheese is sufficiently low that it has minimal impact on most dietary plans, especially those emphasizing carbohydrate restriction. Here are some considerations for specific diets:

  • Ketogenic Diet: With typically less than 1 gram of carbs per serving, string cheese fits well within the stringent carb limits of keto diets, making it an ideal snack.
  • Low-Carb Diets: String cheese provides a tasty, protein-rich snack without significantly raising carbohydrate intake.
  • Diabetic Meal Plans: The low carbohydrate content means string cheese has a minimal effect on blood glucose levels, though portion control remains important.
  • General Balanced Diets: String cheese offers calcium and protein with negligible carbs, supporting overall nutrition without excess sugar.

In summary, the carbohydrate content of string cheese is generally low enough to be compatible with various dietary

Carbohydrate Content in String Cheese

String cheese, a popular snack primarily made from mozzarella or other types of cheese, is often chosen for its convenience and protein content. When evaluating its carbohydrate content, it is important to consider the typical serving size and the manufacturing process.

Most traditional string cheese sticks contain minimal carbohydrates because cheese is naturally low in carbs. The carbohydrate content primarily comes from trace amounts of lactose, the natural sugar found in milk, which is usually reduced during the cheese-making process.

Type of String Cheese Serving Size Carbohydrates (g)
Regular Mozzarella String Cheese 1 stick (~28g) 0.5 – 1.0
Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella 1 stick (~28g) 0.5 – 1.2
Flavored or Processed String Cheese 1 stick (~28g) 1.0 – 2.0

In general, a standard string cheese stick contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates, making it an excellent snack choice for low-carb diets such as ketogenic or Atkins plans.

Factors Influencing Carbohydrate Content

Several factors can influence the exact carbohydrate content in string cheese:

  • Type of Milk Used: Whole milk cheeses may contain slightly more lactose than part-skim varieties, marginally increasing carb content.
  • Processing and Additives: Some brands add flavorings or preservatives that may contribute additional carbohydrates.
  • Fermentation Time: Longer aging or fermentation reduces lactose, thereby lowering the carbohydrate content.

These variations generally result in small differences, but consumers with strict carb limits should always check nutrition labels for precise information.

Nutritional Comparison with Other Cheese Snacks

To better understand how string cheese fits into a low-carb diet, it is useful to compare its carbohydrate content with other common cheese snacks:

Cheese Snack Typical Serving Size Carbohydrates (g)
String Cheese 1 stick (~28g) 0.5 – 1.0
Cheddar Cheese Slice 1 slice (~28g) 0.4 – 0.6
Processed Cheese Spread 1 tbsp (~15g) 1.0 – 2.0
Cheese Cubes (Mixed) 1 oz (~28g) 0.5 – 1.0

This comparison highlights that string cheese is comparable to other cheese products in carbohydrate content, maintaining its position as a low-carb snack option.

Considerations for Special Diets

For individuals following specific dietary regimens, understanding the carbohydrate content of string cheese is essential:

  • Ketogenic Diet: String cheese’s low carbohydrate content supports ketosis by minimizing sugar intake.
  • Diabetic Diets: The negligible carbs in string cheese help manage blood sugar levels effectively.
  • Lactose Intolerance: While string cheese contains trace lactose, many lactose-intolerant individuals tolerate it well due to fermentation reducing lactose levels.
  • Weight Management: Its combination of low carbs and high protein makes string cheese a satiating snack choice.

Always verify product labels, as some flavored or processed varieties may have added sugars or fillers increasing carb content.

Expert Insights on Carbohydrate Content in String Cheese

Dr. Melissa Hartman (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, National Dairy Council). String cheese typically contains about 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving, making it a low-carb snack option suitable for individuals monitoring their carbohydrate intake.

James Liu (Food Scientist, Dairy Research Institute). The carbohydrate content in string cheese primarily comes from naturally occurring lactose in milk. Due to the fermentation and aging processes, the amount remains minimal, generally under 2 grams per piece.

Elena Rodriguez (Certified Diabetes Educator, American Diabetes Association). For people managing blood sugar levels, string cheese is an excellent choice given its low carbohydrate content, typically around 1 gram per stick, which has minimal impact on glucose control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many carbohydrates are in a typical string cheese stick?
A standard string cheese stick contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates, making it a low-carb snack option.

Does the type of cheese affect the carbohydrate content in string cheese?
Yes, most string cheese is made from mozzarella, which is naturally low in carbs; however, flavored or processed varieties may contain slightly higher carbohydrate amounts.

Is string cheese suitable for a ketogenic diet based on its carb content?
String cheese is generally suitable for a ketogenic diet due to its low carbohydrate content, typically around 1 gram per serving.

How does the carbohydrate content in string cheese compare to other cheese snacks?
String cheese usually has fewer carbohydrates than processed cheese snacks or cheese spreads, which may contain added sugars or fillers.

Can the carbohydrate content in string cheese vary by brand?
Yes, carbohydrate content can vary slightly between brands depending on ingredients and processing methods, so it is advisable to check the nutrition label.

Are there any hidden sugars in string cheese that affect its carbohydrate count?
Most plain string cheese contains no added sugars, so the carbohydrate count primarily comes from natural milk sugars (lactose).
String cheese is a popular snack choice known for its convenience and nutritional benefits, particularly as a source of protein and calcium. When considering carbohydrate content, a typical stick of string cheese contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates. This low carbohydrate count makes it an excellent option for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets, as well as individuals monitoring their carbohydrate intake for blood sugar management.

It is important to note that the exact carbohydrate content can vary slightly depending on the brand and type of string cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar varieties. However, the variation is generally minimal, and string cheese remains a low-carb snack option across most products. Additionally, the presence of natural milk sugars (lactose) contributes to the carbohydrate content, but this amount is usually quite small.

In summary, string cheese offers a convenient, low-carb snack that supports various dietary goals without compromising on taste or nutrition. Its minimal carbohydrate content, combined with protein and calcium, makes it a balanced choice for those seeking to maintain energy levels and support overall health. Consumers should always check nutrition labels for specific information but can generally rely on string cheese as a low-carb food item.

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.