How Many Calories Are in a Stick of String Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

When it comes to quick, convenient snacks, string cheese has earned a special place in many households. Its portability, satisfying texture, and mild flavor make it a popular choice for kids and adults alike. But beyond its taste and convenience, many people wonder about the nutritional impact of this beloved snack—specifically, how many calories are in a stick of string cheese.

Understanding the calorie content of string cheese is essential for those who are mindful of their daily intake, whether for weight management, fitness goals, or general health awareness. While string cheese is often seen as a wholesome option, the calorie count can vary depending on the type of cheese and serving size. This makes it important to look beyond just the surface and get a clearer picture of what you’re consuming.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie content of string cheese in more detail, discuss factors that influence its nutritional profile, and offer insights into how it fits into a balanced diet. Whether you’re a casual snacker or someone tracking every calorie, this guide will help you make informed choices about your favorite cheesy treat.

Caloric Content of Different Types of String Cheese

String cheese is a popular snack due to its convenience and nutritional profile. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the type of cheese used, its fat content, and serving size. Typically, a standard stick of string cheese weighs around 28 grams (1 ounce), but this can fluctuate slightly between brands.

The most common type of string cheese is made from mozzarella, which tends to be lower in calories compared to other cheeses. However, there are variations such as part-skim mozzarella, whole milk mozzarella, and other cheese blends, each affecting the calorie count.

Key factors influencing calorie content include:

  • Fat content: Whole milk versions have more fat and therefore more calories.
  • Serving size: Some sticks are larger or smaller than the standard 28 grams.
  • Additional ingredients: Some flavored or processed string cheeses may have added calories.

Below is a table summarizing the estimated calorie content of various common types of string cheese per standard stick (28g):

Type of String Cheese Calories per Stick (28g) Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g)
Part-Skim Mozzarella 80 6 7 1
Whole Milk Mozzarella 85-90 7 6-7 1
Cheddar String Cheese 90-100 7-8 6-7 1
Low-Fat Mozzarella 70 4 8 1

Understanding Nutritional Impact Beyond Calories

While calories are an important factor in dietary choices, it is equally essential to consider the macronutrient composition and micronutrient content of string cheese. String cheese is not only a source of calories but also provides substantial amounts of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients.

Protein Content:
String cheese is high in protein, which is vital for muscle repair, growth, and satiety. A typical stick provides around 6-8 grams of protein, making it an excellent snack for those aiming to increase or maintain protein intake without excessive calories.

Fat Profile:
The fat content varies, with whole milk cheeses containing more saturated fat. While saturated fat intake should be moderated, fat is necessary for absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and overall cellular function.

Calcium and Micronutrients:
Cheese is a good source of calcium, contributing significantly to bone health. Some string cheeses are fortified or naturally contain vitamins A and B12, phosphorus, and zinc.

Additional Considerations:

  • Sodium Levels: Some string cheeses can be high in sodium, so individuals monitoring salt intake should check labels.
  • Lactose Content: String cheese is generally low in lactose due to fermentation, making it more digestible for people with lactose intolerance compared to other dairy products.
  • Additives: Processed string cheeses may contain preservatives or stabilizers; natural mozzarella sticks typically have fewer additives.

Practical Tips for Incorporating String Cheese into Your Diet

When including string cheese as part of a balanced diet, consider the following guidelines:

  • Portion Control: Stick to one piece per serving to manage calorie intake effectively.
  • Pairing: Combine string cheese with whole grain crackers, fruits, or vegetables for a well-rounded snack.
  • Variety: Choose different types of string cheese to diversify nutrient intake.
  • Reading Labels: Pay attention to nutrition labels to select options with lower sodium and fewer additives.
  • Storage: Keep string cheese refrigerated and consume before the expiration date for safety and freshness.

By understanding the caloric values and nutritional components of string cheese, you can better integrate this snack into your diet in a way that aligns with your health and fitness goals.

Caloric Content of a Stick of String Cheese

A standard stick of string cheese typically contains between 70 and 110 calories, depending on the brand, type of cheese, and portion size. The most common variety is made from mozzarella cheese, which is naturally lower in calories compared to other cheese types like cheddar or gouda.

The calorie content is influenced primarily by the fat and protein composition of the cheese. String cheese is often marketed as a convenient, protein-rich snack that can fit into various dietary plans, including weight management and fitness regimes.

Type of String Cheese Serving Size Calories (kcal) Protein (g) Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
Low-moisture part-skim mozzarella 28 grams (1 stick) 80–90 6–7 5–6 1
Whole milk mozzarella 28 grams (1 stick) 90–110 6–7 7–9 1
Cheddar string cheese 28 grams (1 stick) 100–110 6–7 8–9 1

When selecting string cheese, reviewing the nutrition label is essential to understand the exact calorie content, especially if you are managing your daily caloric intake carefully. Variations in fat content, such as part-skim versus whole milk, can significantly affect the total calories.

Nutritional Breakdown Beyond Calories

String cheese is more than just a calorie count; it provides valuable nutrients that contribute to overall health.

  • Protein: String cheese is a good source of high-quality protein, typically providing 6 to 7 grams per stick, which supports muscle repair and satiety.
  • Calcium: It is rich in calcium, an essential mineral for bone health, often supplying 15-20% of the recommended daily intake in a single stick.
  • Fat: The fat content varies depending on the type of milk used. Whole milk varieties contain more saturated fat, whereas part-skim options have reduced fat content.
  • Carbohydrates: Generally low, usually around 1 gram per stick, making string cheese suitable for low-carb diets.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin A, phosphorus, and zinc, contributing to overall nutritional value.

Given its nutrient profile, string cheese can be a convenient snack that balances macronutrients, particularly for individuals seeking to increase protein intake without consuming excessive calories or carbohydrates.

Factors Affecting Calorie Variation in String Cheese

Several factors contribute to the differences in calorie content across various string cheese products:

  • Milk Fat Content: Full-fat cheeses naturally have higher calories due to increased fat concentration, while part-skim or low-fat options reduce caloric density.
  • Portion Size: Although most sticks are around 28 grams, some brands offer larger or smaller portions, impacting total calorie count.
  • Added Ingredients: Some string cheese varieties may include added herbs, spices, or flavorings, which can slightly alter calorie content.
  • Moisture Content: Low-moisture cheeses are denser and may have more calories per gram compared to fresh or high-moisture varieties.

Consumers should consider these factors when comparing products, especially if they rely on string cheese as part of a structured dietary plan.

Expert Insights on the Caloric Content of String Cheese Sticks

Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). A standard stick of string cheese typically contains between 70 to 80 calories, depending on the brand and type of cheese used. This makes it a convenient, portion-controlled snack that provides a good balance of protein and fat without excessive caloric intake.

Michael Chen (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The caloric value of a stick of string cheese is influenced by its moisture content and fat percentage. Most commonly, mozzarella-based string cheese sticks average around 80 calories per serving, offering a nutrient-dense option for those monitoring their energy intake.

Sarah Mitchell (Certified Nutrition Coach and Wellness Expert). When considering how many calories are in a stick of string cheese, it is important to note that these snacks are designed to be low in calories while still providing essential nutrients like calcium and protein, making them an excellent choice for weight management and healthy snacking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a typical stick of string cheese?
A standard stick of string cheese contains approximately 80 calories.

Do different brands of string cheese have varying calorie counts?
Yes, calorie counts can vary slightly depending on the brand and type of milk used, but most range between 70 to 90 calories per stick.

Are low-fat or reduced-fat string cheese options lower in calories?
Low-fat or reduced-fat string cheese generally contains fewer calories, often around 50 to 60 calories per stick.

How does the calorie content of string cheese compare to other cheese snacks?
String cheese typically has fewer calories than many other cheese snacks, such as cheese cubes or processed cheese slices, making it a popular low-calorie option.

Does the size of the string cheese stick affect its calorie content?
Yes, larger or thicker sticks contain more cheese and therefore have higher calorie counts proportionally.

Can the calorie content in string cheese impact a weight management diet?
When consumed in moderation, string cheese can fit into a weight management diet due to its moderate calorie content and high protein levels.
In summary, a typical stick of string cheese contains approximately 80 calories, though this number can vary slightly depending on the brand and type of cheese used. Most string cheese sticks are made from mozzarella or similar cheeses, which provide a balanced source of protein and fat while keeping the calorie count relatively moderate. This makes string cheese a convenient and portion-controlled snack option for those mindful of their caloric intake.

It is important to consider that the nutritional content, including calories, can differ based on factors such as the cheese variety, added ingredients, and serving size. Reading the nutrition label on the packaging is recommended for the most accurate information. Additionally, string cheese offers beneficial nutrients like calcium and protein, which contribute to a healthy diet beyond just calorie content.

Overall, string cheese serves as a practical and nutritious snack choice for individuals seeking to manage their calorie consumption without sacrificing taste or convenience. Being aware of the calorie content helps consumers make informed decisions aligned with their dietary goals and preferences.

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.