How Many Carbs Are in Colby Jack Cheese?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Dairy Buying & Availability

When it comes to enjoying delicious cheeses while keeping an eye on your carbohydrate intake, understanding the carb content of popular varieties is essential. Colby Jack cheese, known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, is a favorite in many households, whether melted on a sandwich or sliced for a snack. But how does it fit into a low-carb or keto-friendly diet?

Navigating the nutritional profile of cheeses like Colby Jack can sometimes be confusing, especially with so many diet trends emphasizing carb counting. While cheese is often celebrated for its protein and fat content, the carbohydrate aspect is equally important for those monitoring their macros. This article will explore the carbohydrate content in Colby Jack cheese, helping you make informed choices without sacrificing flavor.

Whether you’re a cheese lover trying to maintain a balanced diet or simply curious about the nutritional facts behind your favorite snack, understanding how many carbs are in Colby Jack cheese can provide clarity. Stay tuned as we delve into the details and uncover what makes this cheese a smart option for various dietary needs.

Carbohydrate Content in Colby Jack Cheese

Colby Jack cheese is a popular variety that combines the mild flavor of Colby with the creamy texture of Monterey Jack. When evaluating its nutritional profile, particularly carbohydrate content, it is important to understand how cheese generally fits into a low-carb diet.

Most cheeses, including Colby Jack, are naturally low in carbohydrates because they are primarily composed of protein and fat. The carbohydrate content in cheese comes mainly from the small amounts of lactose, a milk sugar that remains after the cheese-making process. However, aged cheeses tend to have even lower carbohydrate levels due to the fermentation process, which breaks down lactose.

In the case of Colby Jack cheese:

  • It typically contains around 0.5 grams or less of carbohydrates per ounce (28 grams).
  • The lactose content is minimal, making it suitable for those monitoring carbohydrate intake.
  • This low level of carbs supports its inclusion in ketogenic, low-carb, and diabetic-friendly diets.

Below is a detailed nutritional breakdown of Colby Jack cheese, focusing on its carbohydrate content per typical serving sizes.

Serving Size Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g) Fat (g) Calories
1 slice (28g / 1 oz) 0.5 7 9 110
1 cup shredded (113g) 2.0 28 36 440

When considering carbohydrate intake from Colby Jack cheese, it is also useful to consider the context of the overall meal. While the carb content is low, pairing cheese with high-carb foods will increase total carbohydrate consumption.

For those tracking macros or managing blood sugar levels, the negligible carbohydrate content in Colby Jack cheese contributes minimally to daily carb limits. This makes it an excellent cheese choice for those seeking flavorful options without compromising their carbohydrate goals.

Additional factors that influence the carbohydrate content in Colby Jack cheese include:

  • Brand variations: Different manufacturers may have slight differences in lactose content, impacting carbs.
  • Aging time: Longer-aged cheeses tend to have less lactose and therefore fewer carbs.
  • Processing methods: Natural cheeses typically have lower carbs compared to processed cheese products.

Understanding these nuances helps consumers make informed choices when selecting cheese for low-carb or ketogenic diets.

Carbohydrate Content in Colby Jack Cheese

Colby Jack cheese is a popular variety known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, often used in sandwiches, snacks, and cooking. Understanding its carbohydrate content is essential for those managing their carbohydrate intake, such as individuals following ketogenic, low-carb, or diabetic diets.

Carbohydrate Overview in Colby Jack Cheese

Colby Jack cheese is primarily composed of fats and proteins, with a very low carbohydrate content. This is typical of most natural cheeses, as lactose (milk sugar) is largely broken down during the cheese-making process.

  • Typical carbohydrate content per serving:

Most sources indicate that Colby Jack cheese contains approximately 0.6 to 1 gram of carbohydrates per ounce (28 grams).

  • Lactose content:

The lactose is minimal due to fermentation, making it generally suitable for those with lactose intolerance in moderate amounts.

  • Impact on blood sugar:

The minimal carbs result in negligible impact on blood sugar levels, supporting its inclusion in low-carb dietary plans.

Nutritional Information Table for Colby Jack Cheese (per 1 ounce / 28 grams)

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value*
Calories 110-120 kcal 5-6%
Total Fat 9-10 grams 14-15%
Saturated Fat 5-6 grams 25-30%
Cholesterol 25-30 mg 8-10%
Sodium 180-200 mg 8-9%
Total Carbohydrates 0.6-1 gram <1%
Dietary Fiber 0 grams 0%
Sugars 0.2-0.5 grams N/A
Protein 7 grams 14%

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

Considerations for Special Diets

  • Low-Carb and Keto Diets:

Due to its very low carbohydrate content, Colby Jack cheese is an excellent choice for low-carb and ketogenic eating plans. Its fat and protein content help maintain satiety without significantly impacting carbohydrate limits.

  • Diabetic Diets:

The minimal carbs and low glycemic index make Colby Jack cheese a safe option for blood glucose management. However, portion control is important due to fat and sodium content.

  • Lactose Intolerance:

While lactose levels are low, individuals with severe lactose intolerance should monitor tolerance, as trace amounts remain.

Variability in Carbohydrate Content

The carbohydrate content of Colby Jack cheese can vary slightly based on:

  • Brand and processing method: Different manufacturers may have minor variations in lactose removal and additives.
  • Aging time: More aged cheeses typically have lower lactose content, although Colby Jack is usually a semi-hard, moderately aged cheese.
  • Serving size: Always check packaging labels for precise nutritional facts per serving.

Practical Tips for Tracking Carbs in Cheese

  • Use the nutritional label on the specific product for exact carbohydrate content.
  • When dining out or using recipes, estimate 0.6 to 1 gram of carbs per ounce as a guideline.
  • Incorporate cheese as part of balanced meals combining vegetables and proteins to optimize overall nutrition.

Comparing Carbohydrate Content in Various Cheeses

Understanding how Colby Jack compares with other cheeses can help tailor dietary choices.

Cheese Type Carbohydrates (per 1 oz) Notes
Colby Jack 0.6–1 g Semi-hard, mild flavor
Cheddar 0.4–1 g Similar low carb content
Mozzarella 0.6–1 g Fresh, slightly higher moisture
Swiss 0.4–1 g Slightly nutty taste
Parmesan 0.9 g Hard, aged cheese
Cream Cheese 1–2 g Higher due to moisture

This comparison demonstrates that most natural cheeses have a comparably low carbohydrate profile, making them suitable for low-carb diets when consumed in appropriate portions.

Expert Nutritional Insights on Carbohydrate Content in Colby Jack Cheese

Dr. Melissa Grant (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Colby Jack cheese contains a negligible amount of carbohydrates, typically less than 1 gram per ounce. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals following low-carb or ketogenic diets, as its carbohydrate content is minimal compared to other food groups.

James Thornton (Food Chemist and Dairy Specialist). The carbohydrate content in Colby Jack cheese primarily comes from lactose, which is naturally present in milk. During the cheese aging process, much of the lactose is broken down, resulting in very low residual carbs. On average, you can expect about 0.5 to 0.7 grams of carbs per serving.

Dr. Elena Morales (Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Health Expert). When assessing carbohydrate intake from cheeses like Colby Jack, it is important to consider the serving size. While the carb count is minimal, individuals with strict dietary restrictions should still monitor portions. Overall, Colby Jack cheese is a low-carb dairy option suitable for most nutritional plans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many carbohydrates are in a serving of Colby Jack cheese?
A typical one-ounce (28-gram) serving of Colby Jack cheese contains approximately 1 gram or less of carbohydrates.

Is Colby Jack cheese suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes, Colby Jack cheese is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Do flavored or processed Colby Jack cheeses have more carbs?
Flavored or processed varieties may contain slightly higher carbohydrate content due to added ingredients, but the increase is generally minimal.

How does the carbohydrate content of Colby Jack compare to other cheeses?
Colby Jack cheese has a similar carbohydrate content to most semi-hard cheeses, typically less than 1 gram per serving.

Can lactose intolerance affect carbohydrate digestion in Colby Jack cheese?
Lactose content in Colby Jack cheese is low, so most lactose-intolerant individuals tolerate it well without significant carbohydrate-related digestive issues.

Does the carbohydrate content vary by brand or preparation method?
Carbohydrate content in Colby Jack cheese remains fairly consistent across brands and preparation methods, with only minor variations.
Colby Jack cheese is a popular cheese variety known for its mild flavor and creamy texture. When considering its carbohydrate content, Colby Jack cheese is very low in carbs, typically containing less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per ounce. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals following low-carb or ketogenic diets, as it provides essential nutrients without significantly impacting daily carbohydrate intake.

In addition to its minimal carbohydrate content, Colby Jack cheese offers a good source of protein and calcium, contributing to overall nutritional value. Its versatility in various culinary applications—from snacking to melting in recipes—further enhances its appeal for those seeking flavorful, low-carb food options.

Ultimately, understanding the carbohydrate content in Colby Jack cheese helps consumers make informed dietary choices, particularly for managing blood sugar levels or adhering to specific nutritional plans. Its low carb profile combined with beneficial nutrients positions Colby Jack cheese as a favorable option within a balanced diet.

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.