How Many Calories Are in Mozzarella String Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

Mozzarella string cheese has long been a favorite snack for people of all ages, combining convenience with a satisfying, mild flavor. Whether packed in a lunchbox, enjoyed post-workout, or simply savored as a quick bite, this popular dairy treat offers more than just taste—it also contributes to your daily nutritional intake. Understanding the calorie content in mozzarella string cheese can help you make informed choices that align with your health and dietary goals.

As a snack, mozzarella string cheese is often praised for its protein content and portability, making it a go-to option for those seeking a balanced yet tasty option. However, like any food, it’s important to consider how its calories fit into your overall diet. Calories in string cheese can vary depending on factors such as brand, portion size, and specific ingredients, which makes gaining a clear understanding essential for mindful eating.

In the following sections, we will explore the calorie count of mozzarella string cheese, delve into its nutritional profile, and discuss how it can fit into various eating plans. Whether you’re counting calories, managing your weight, or simply curious about what’s in your favorite snack, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you enjoy mozzarella string cheese thoughtfully and deliciously.

Caloric Content of Mozzarella String Cheese

Mozzarella string cheese is a popular snack choice, especially for those seeking a convenient source of protein and calcium. Understanding its caloric content helps consumers make informed dietary decisions. Generally, a typical stick of mozzarella string cheese weighs about 21 grams and contains approximately 80 calories. However, this value can vary slightly depending on the brand and specific formulation.

The caloric breakdown of mozzarella string cheese primarily comes from its macronutrient composition, which includes fats, proteins, and minimal carbohydrates. The fat content, especially saturated fat, contributes significantly to the calorie count. Meanwhile, protein offers essential amino acids with fewer calories per gram compared to fats.

Macronutrient Breakdown and Calories

To better understand how calories are distributed in mozzarella string cheese, consider the following typical macronutrient values per serving (one stick, ~21g):

  • Total Calories: ~80 kcal
  • Total Fat: 6 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 grams
  • Protein: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 1 gram or less

Each gram of fat provides about 9 calories, protein provides 4 calories per gram, and carbohydrates also provide 4 calories per gram. Using these values, the approximate calorie distribution can be calculated.

Macronutrient Amount (g) Calories per Gram Total Calories
Fat 6 9 54
Protein 7 4 28
Carbohydrates 1 4 4

This breakdown shows that fat contributes the majority of calories, followed by protein, with carbohydrates contributing minimally.

Variations in Caloric Content

Several factors influence the calorie count in mozzarella string cheese products:

  • Fat Content Variations: Some brands offer low-fat or part-skim versions, which can reduce calories to approximately 60–70 per stick by lowering fat content.
  • Portion Size Differences: While the standard serving size is around 21 grams, some sticks may be larger or smaller, directly affecting caloric intake.
  • Added Ingredients: Certain flavored varieties may include additional ingredients such as herbs or spices, which could slightly modify the calorie count.
  • Processing Methods: Differences in production and moisture content can influence the density and nutritional profile of the cheese.

Comparing Mozzarella String Cheese to Other Cheese Snacks

When considering calorie content relative to other cheese-based snacks, mozzarella string cheese tends to be moderate in calories and offers a balanced macronutrient profile.

  • Cheddar Cheese Cubes: Usually higher in calories due to higher fat content; approximately 110 calories per 28-gram serving.
  • Processed Cheese Slices: May contain additives and higher sodium; calorie content varies but often similar to mozzarella string cheese.
  • Cheese Sticks (Other Varieties): For example, pepper jack or Colby cheese sticks have similar calorie ranges but may vary slightly depending on fat content.

Tips for Managing Caloric Intake with Mozzarella String Cheese

For individuals monitoring caloric intake, especially within weight management or dietary plans, consider the following:

  • Choose Part-Skim or Low-Fat Options: These provide fewer calories while maintaining protein content.
  • Control Portion Size: Stick to one serving to avoid unintentional calorie overconsumption.
  • Balance with Other Nutrients: Pair cheese sticks with fresh vegetables or whole grain crackers for a more balanced snack.
  • Read Nutrition Labels: Always check the packaging for exact calorie and macronutrient values, as they can vary by brand.

By understanding these aspects, consumers can effectively incorporate mozzarella string cheese into a balanced diet without compromising their caloric goals.

Caloric Content of Mozzarella String Cheese

Mozzarella string cheese is a popular snack choice known for its convenience and protein content. When considering its impact on a diet, understanding the calorie count is essential.

Typically, a standard serving size of mozzarella string cheese is one stick, weighing approximately 28 grams (1 ounce). The calorie content can vary slightly depending on the brand and whether the cheese is part-skim or whole milk.

Type of Mozzarella String Cheese Serving Size Calories per Serving Protein (g) Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
Part-Skim Mozzarella String Cheese 28g (1 stick) 80 7 6 1
Whole Milk Mozzarella String Cheese 28g (1 stick) 90-100 7 7-8 1

Several factors influence the exact calorie content:

  • Fat content: Whole milk versions contain more fat, leading to higher calories compared to part-skim.
  • Added ingredients: Some brands add preservatives or flavor enhancers that minimally affect calories.
  • Portion size: Variations in stick size can alter calorie counts.

For individuals monitoring caloric intake, part-skim mozzarella string cheese provides a lower-calorie option while still delivering a significant protein boost.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Mozzarella String Cheese

Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Mozzarella string cheese typically contains around 70 to 80 calories per stick, depending on the brand and portion size. This makes it a convenient, portion-controlled snack option that balances taste with moderate caloric intake, suitable for those monitoring their daily energy consumption.

Mark Thompson (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The caloric value in mozzarella string cheese primarily derives from its fat and protein content. Since it is made from whole milk, the fat contributes significantly to the calorie count, but the protein also plays a vital role in satiety, making it a nutrient-dense snack rather than just empty calories.

Lisa Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert). When considering how many calories are in mozzarella string cheese, it is important to factor in its role within a balanced diet. While each stick provides a modest calorie amount, it also delivers essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, which support bone health, making it a smart choice for individuals seeking nutritious, low-calorie snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one stick of mozzarella string cheese?
One stick of mozzarella string cheese typically contains about 80 calories.

Does the calorie count vary between brands of mozzarella string cheese?
Yes, calorie counts can vary slightly depending on the brand and the exact size of the cheese stick, but most range between 70 to 90 calories per stick.

Are the calories in mozzarella string cheese mostly from fat or protein?
The calories in mozzarella string cheese come from both fat and protein, with fat contributing slightly more, typically around 6 grams of fat and 6–7 grams of protein per stick.

Is mozzarella string cheese a low-calorie snack option?
Mozzarella string cheese is considered a moderately low-calorie snack, providing a good balance of protein and fat to promote satiety.

How does the calorie content of mozzarella string cheese compare to other cheese snacks?
Mozzarella string cheese generally has fewer calories than many processed cheese snacks but is comparable to other natural cheese sticks.

Can mozzarella string cheese fit into a calorie-controlled diet?
Yes, mozzarella string cheese can be included in a calorie-controlled diet when consumed in moderation due to its moderate calorie content and nutritional benefits.
In summary, mozzarella string cheese is a popular snack option known for its convenient packaging and appealing taste. On average, a single stick of mozzarella string cheese contains approximately 70 to 80 calories, making it a moderate-calorie snack choice. The calorie content may vary slightly depending on the brand and portion size, but it generally remains within this range.

Beyond calorie count, mozzarella string cheese offers valuable nutritional benefits, including a good source of protein and calcium, which support muscle maintenance and bone health. Its relatively low carbohydrate content also makes it suitable for various dietary preferences, including low-carb and ketogenic diets. However, it is important to consider the sodium content, as some brands may contain higher levels that could impact individuals monitoring their salt intake.

Overall, mozzarella string cheese can be a nutritious and convenient snack when consumed in moderation. Understanding its calorie content and nutritional profile allows consumers to make informed decisions that align with their dietary goals and health needs. Incorporating mozzarella string cheese into a balanced diet can contribute positively to overall nutrition without excessive calorie intake.

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.