How Many Calories Are in a Mozzarella String Cheese Stick?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

When it comes to quick, tasty snacks, mozzarella string cheese sticks have become a favorite for many. Whether you’re packing a lunchbox, grabbing a post-workout bite, or simply craving something satisfying and convenient, these cheese sticks offer a delicious option that’s both portable and enjoyable. But beyond their creamy texture and mild flavor, many people wonder about the nutritional impact of this popular snack—specifically, how many calories are in a mozzarella string cheese stick.

Understanding the calorie content of your favorite snacks is an important step toward making informed dietary choices. Mozzarella string cheese is often perceived as a healthier alternative to more processed or sugary snacks, but its calorie count can vary based on brand, size, and preparation methods. Exploring these factors can help you better gauge how this snack fits into your daily nutritional goals.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the calorie specifics of mozzarella string cheese sticks, examine how they compare to other common snacks, and discuss their role in a balanced diet. Whether you’re counting calories for weight management or simply curious about what you’re eating, this guide will provide the insights you need to enjoy your cheese sticks mindfully.

Caloric Content of Mozzarella String Cheese Sticks

Mozzarella string cheese sticks are a popular snack choice for those seeking a convenient, protein-rich option. Typically, a single string cheese stick weighs around 28 grams (1 ounce), which is considered a standard serving size. The caloric content of these sticks is influenced primarily by their fat and protein content, as well as the moisture level in the cheese.

On average, a standard mozzarella string cheese stick contains approximately 80 calories. This value may vary slightly depending on the brand and whether the cheese is part-skim or whole milk. Part-skim varieties generally have fewer calories due to reduced fat content, while whole milk mozzarella will have a higher calorie count.

Nutritional Breakdown Per Serving

Understanding the macronutrient composition of mozzarella string cheese can help contextualize its calorie count and its role in a balanced diet. Below is a typical nutritional profile for one standard mozzarella string cheese stick:

Nutrient Amount per 28g Stick Caloric Value (kcal)
Total Calories 80 80
Protein 6-7 grams 24-28 (4 kcal/g)
Total Fat 5-6 grams 45-54 (9 kcal/g)
Carbohydrates 1 gram or less 4 (4 kcal/g)
Calcium 15-20% Daily Value —

This breakdown illustrates that most of the calories come from fat and protein, which together contribute to the satiating effect of mozzarella cheese. The low carbohydrate content makes string cheese a favorable option for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Factors Affecting Calorie Variation

Several factors can influence the calorie content of mozzarella string cheese sticks:

  • Milk Type: Whole milk mozzarella contains more fat and thus more calories than part-skim or skim varieties.
  • Additives and Fillers: Some brands may include added ingredients such as preservatives or flavor enhancers, which can slightly alter caloric content.
  • Portion Size: While 28 grams is standard, some sticks may be larger or smaller, affecting total calorie intake.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture in cheese reduces calorie density, as water adds weight without calories.

Consumers should always check the nutrition label on packaging for the most accurate calorie information related to the specific product.

Comparing Calories Across Different Cheese Snacks

To provide perspective on the caloric content of mozzarella string cheese, it’s helpful to compare it with other common cheese-based snacks:

Cheese Snack Serving Size Calories Protein (g) Fat (g)
Mozzarella String Cheese 28 g (1 oz) 80 6-7 5-6
Cheddar Cheese Stick 28 g (1 oz) 110 7 9
Swiss Cheese Slice 28 g (1 oz) 106 7-8 8
Provolone Cheese Stick 28 g (1 oz) 98 7 7

Mozzarella string cheese typically has fewer calories and less fat than many other cheese sticks, making it a lighter alternative in terms of energy intake.

Practical Tips for Including String Cheese in Your Diet

  • Portion Control: Stick to one serving to keep calorie intake in check, especially if you consume other calorie-dense foods.
  • Pairing with Nutrient-Dense Foods: Combine string cheese with vegetables or whole grain crackers for a balanced snack.
  • Mind the Sodium: Cheese can be high in sodium, so monitor your overall daily intake if you are sensitive to salt.
  • Check Labels: Opt for lower-fat or part-skim versions if you aim to reduce calorie and fat consumption without sacrificing protein.

By understanding the caloric and nutritional content of mozzarella string cheese sticks, you can make informed decisions that align with your dietary goals.

Caloric Content of a Mozzarella String Cheese Stick

Mozzarella string cheese sticks are a popular snack choice, often appreciated for their convenience, taste, and nutritional profile. Understanding their caloric content is essential for those managing their dietary intake, whether for weight management, athletic performance, or general health monitoring.

Typical Calorie Range

The caloric value of a mozzarella string cheese stick generally depends on its size and specific brand formulation. However, most standard mozzarella string cheese sticks weigh approximately 21 grams (about 0.75 ounces).

  • Average calories per stick: 70 to 80 kcal
  • Weight: Approximately 21 grams per stick

Factors Influencing Caloric Content

Several factors can influence the calories found in a mozzarella string cheese stick:

  • Fat content: Whole milk mozzarella will have more calories compared to part-skim versions.
  • Added ingredients: Some brands may include additional flavorings or preservatives which slightly alter calorie content.
  • Size variation: Mini or snack-sized sticks may have fewer calories, while larger portions will have more.

Nutritional Breakdown per Typical Mozzarella String Cheese Stick

Nutrient Amount per 21g Stick % Daily Value*
Calories 70-80 kcal 3-4%
Total Fat 5-6 g 7-9%
Saturated Fat 3-4 g 15-20%
Cholesterol 15-20 mg 5-7%
Sodium 150-200 mg 6-8%
Protein 6-7 g 12-14%
Carbohydrates 1 g or less <1%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Comparison with Other Cheese Snacks

When compared to other cheese-based snacks, mozzarella string cheese sticks are relatively moderate in calories and high in protein, making them a balanced option for satiating hunger:

  • Cheddar cheese stick (28g): ~110 calories
  • Pepper jack cheese stick (21g): ~80-90 calories
  • Babybel cheese (20g): ~70-80 calories

The lower calorie count per serving size and the string texture make mozzarella string cheese sticks a convenient, portion-controlled dairy snack.

Tips for Calorie-Conscious Consumption

  • Opt for part-skim mozzarella: Reduces fat and calorie content without significant loss of flavor.
  • Check serving size labels: Some sticks may be larger than standard, increasing calorie intake.
  • Combine with fresh vegetables: Balances the snack with fiber and micronutrients, supporting overall nutrition.
  • Limit frequency: Despite being a healthy snack, moderation is key due to saturated fat and sodium content.

By considering these aspects, individuals can effectively incorporate mozzarella string cheese sticks into a calorie-conscious diet.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Mozzarella String Cheese Sticks

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). The average mozzarella string cheese stick contains approximately 80 calories, primarily derived from its fat and protein content. This makes it a convenient, portion-controlled snack option for individuals seeking moderate calorie intake while maintaining sufficient protein levels.

Michael Reynolds (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The caloric value of a mozzarella string cheese stick can vary slightly depending on the brand and manufacturing process, but typically ranges between 70 to 90 calories per stick. The key contributors to these calories are the natural fats and casein proteins inherent in mozzarella cheese.

Sarah Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Advisor). When considering how many calories are in a mozzarella string cheese stick, it is important to note that these snacks provide a balanced macronutrient profile with moderate calories. Their calorie count supports satiety and muscle maintenance, making them suitable for weight management when consumed in appropriate portions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Do calories vary between different brands of mozzarella string cheese?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly depending on the brand and size, typically ranging from 70 to 90 calories per stick.

Are mozzarella string cheese sticks a good low-calorie snack option?
Mozzarella string cheese sticks are considered a moderate-calorie snack that provides protein and calcium, making them a suitable option for portion-controlled diets.

How does the fat content in mozzarella string cheese affect its calorie count?
Higher fat content increases the calorie count, as fat provides 9 calories per gram; most mozzarella sticks contain around 6 grams of fat.

Can mozzarella string cheese sticks fit into a weight loss diet?
Yes, when consumed in moderation, mozzarella string cheese sticks can fit into a balanced weight loss diet due to their protein content and controlled calorie amount.

Are there low-fat or reduced-calorie versions of mozzarella string cheese sticks available?
Many brands offer low-fat or reduced-calorie mozzarella string cheese sticks, which typically contain fewer calories and less fat than regular versions.
In summary, a typical mozzarella string cheese stick contains approximately 80 calories, making it a convenient and moderately low-calorie snack option. The calorie content may vary slightly depending on the brand and size, but most standard sticks fall within this range. This makes mozzarella string cheese a popular choice for those seeking a nutritious, portion-controlled snack that provides protein and calcium without excessive caloric intake.

It is important to consider that while mozzarella string cheese sticks are relatively low in calories, they also offer valuable nutrients such as protein and calcium, which contribute to muscle health and bone strength. However, individuals monitoring their fat or sodium intake should review the nutritional label, as these snacks can contain moderate amounts of saturated fat and sodium depending on the product.

Overall, mozzarella string cheese sticks serve as a practical and health-conscious snack option for a variety of dietary needs. Their balanced combination of calories, protein, and essential nutrients supports both active lifestyles and weight management goals when consumed in appropriate portions.

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.