How Many Calories Are There in a Slice of Colby Jack Cheese?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Cheese

When it comes to enjoying a delicious sandwich, snack, or cheese platter, Colby Jack cheese often steals the spotlight with its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy flavor. But beyond its taste and versatility, many people are curious about the nutritional aspects of this popular cheese—particularly, how many calories are packed into a single slice. Understanding the calorie content can help you make informed choices whether you’re managing your weight, tracking your macros, or simply aiming for a balanced diet.

Cheese, in general, is known for being nutrient-dense, offering a good source of protein and calcium, but it can also be calorie-rich due to its fat content. Colby Jack, a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses, is no exception. Its unique composition influences not only its flavor and texture but also its nutritional profile. Exploring the calorie count in a slice of Colby Jack can provide insight into how it fits into various dietary plans, from casual snacking to more structured meal planning.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the specifics of Colby Jack cheese’s calorie content, compare it to other cheeses, and discuss how portion size and preparation methods can impact the overall nutritional value. Whether you’re a cheese lover or simply curious about what you’re eating, this

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of Colby Jack Cheese

Colby Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese made by blending Colby and Monterey Jack varieties. Its mild flavor and creamy texture make it a popular choice for sandwiches, snacks, and melting applications. Understanding its caloric content and nutritional components is essential for those tracking their dietary intake.

A typical slice of Colby Jack cheese weighs approximately 28 grams (1 ounce). The calorie count for this portion primarily comes from its fat and protein content, as cheese is a dense source of energy.

Nutrient Amount per 1 Slice (28g) % Daily Value*
Calories 110 kcal 5.5%
Total Fat 9 g 14%
Saturated Fat 5.5 g 28%
Cholesterol 30 mg 10%
Sodium 180 mg 8%
Protein 7 g 14%
Calcium 200 mg 20%

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

The high fat content, especially saturated fat, contributes significantly to the calorie count. Protein is another vital macronutrient in Colby Jack, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, it is a good source of calcium, supporting bone health.

Factors Affecting Caloric Variation in Cheese Slices

Several factors can influence the exact caloric content of a slice of Colby Jack cheese:

  • Slice Thickness and Size: Commercially pre-packaged slices tend to have consistent sizes, but homemade slices can vary, impacting calorie count.
  • Moisture Content: Variations in moisture during the cheese-making process can alter density and calorie concentration.
  • Brand Differences: Different manufacturers might use slightly different recipes or milk fat percentages, affecting calories.
  • Aging Time: While Colby Jack is typically a young cheese, slight aging differences can influence fat breakdown and moisture content.
  • Additives and Fortifications: Some brands may add ingredients such as preservatives or vitamins, which might marginally affect nutritional values.

Understanding these variables helps consumers better estimate their caloric intake when consuming Colby Jack cheese.

Comparison with Other Common Cheese Varieties

To place the calorie content of Colby Jack cheese in context, it is useful to compare it with other popular cheeses per 1-ounce slice:

Cheese Type Calories per 1 oz (28g) Total Fat (g) Protein (g)
Colby Jack 110 9 7
Cheddar 115 9.5 7
Monterey Jack 105 8.5 7
Swiss 106 8.5 8
Mozzarella (part skim) 85 6 7

From this comparison, Colby Jack cheese sits in the mid-range for caloric density among commonly consumed cheeses. It contains slightly fewer calories than cheddar but more than part-skim mozzarella, making it a moderate option in terms of energy contribution.

Tips for Incorporating Colby Jack Cheese into a Balanced Diet

When including Colby Jack cheese in meals, consider the following to maintain balanced nutrition:

  • Portion Control: Stick to one slice or about 28 grams to monitor calorie and fat intake effectively.
  • Pair with Nutrient-Dense Foods: Combine with vegetables, whole grains, or lean proteins to enhance nutritional quality.
  • Moderate Fat Intake: Since Colby Jack has a relatively high saturated fat content, balance it with foods lower in saturated fats throughout the day.
  • Use as a Flavor Enhancer: Instead of large quantities, use small amounts to add flavor and texture without excessive calories.
  • Consider Reduced-Fat Options: Some brands offer reduced-fat Colby Jack cheese, which can lower calorie and fat content while retaining taste.

By applying these strategies, Colby Jack cheese can be enjoyed as part of a nutritious diet without compromising dietary goals.

Caloric Content of a Typical Slice of Colby Jack Cheese

Colby Jack cheese, a popular semi-hard cheese blend of Colby and Monterey Jack, offers a moderate calorie count per serving, making it a favored choice in various culinary applications. The calorie content of a slice depends largely on its weight and thickness, but standard slices provide a consistent nutritional profile.

On average, a standard slice of Colby Jack cheese weighs approximately 28 grams (1 ounce). The calorie content for this typical serving size is as follows:

Serving Size Calories Protein (g) Total Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
1 slice (28 g / 1 oz) 110-115 kcal 7 9 1

The caloric value is primarily derived from fat and protein content. Fat accounts for the majority of the calories, with each gram of fat providing approximately 9 calories, while protein contributes 4 calories per gram. Carbohydrates are minimal in cheese, contributing very few calories.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variation in Colby Jack Cheese Slices

Several factors can influence the exact calorie count in a slice of Colby Jack cheese:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker or larger slices will naturally contain more calories due to increased mass.
  • Brand and Processing: Different manufacturers may have slight variations in fat content based on milk quality and processing methods.
  • Fat Content Variations: Some Colby Jack cheeses are made with reduced-fat milk, resulting in lower calorie counts.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture content in cheese generally lowers calorie density per gram.

It is advisable to check the nutrition label on specific products for the most accurate calorie information, especially when managing dietary intake carefully.

Comparison of Calorie Content with Other Common Cheeses

Understanding how Colby Jack cheese compares to other cheeses in terms of calories can assist in making informed dietary choices. Below is a comparison of calories per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of various popular cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories (per 1 oz) Total Fat (g) Protein (g)
Colby Jack 110-115 9 7
Cheddar 115-120 9-10 7
Monterey Jack 100-110 8-9 7
Swiss 100-110 8-9 8
Mozzarella (part-skim) 70-85 4.5-6 7-8

Colby Jack cheese provides a caloric content comparable to other semi-hard cheeses such as Cheddar and Monterey Jack, with slight variations based on fat content. Part-skim cheeses like mozzarella tend to have lower calories and fat.

Calorie Considerations for Dietary Planning

When incorporating Colby Jack cheese into a diet, it is important to consider its calorie density in the context of overall nutritional goals:

  • Portion Control: Limiting slice size can help manage calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.
  • Pairing with Nutrient-Dense Foods: Combining cheese with vegetables or whole grains balances the meal nutritionally.
  • Fat Intake Monitoring: Since cheese is relatively high in saturated fat, moderation is key for cardiovascular health.
  • Protein Source: Cheese contributes valuable protein, which supports muscle maintenance and satiety.

Careful attention to serving sizes and frequency of consumption helps maintain balanced calorie consumption while enjoying Colby Jack cheese as part of a varied diet.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Colby Jack Cheese

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Colby Jack cheese typically contains around 110 calories per one-ounce slice. This caloric value can vary slightly depending on the brand and fat content, but it is generally consistent with other semi-hard cheeses. It is important for individuals monitoring their caloric intake to consider portion size when including Colby Jack cheese in their diet.

Michael Thompson (Food Technologist and Dairy Specialist). The calorie count in a slice of Colby Jack cheese stems primarily from its fat and protein composition. On average, a standard slice weighing approximately 28 grams contains roughly 100 to 120 calories. This makes it a nutrient-dense option, providing essential fats and proteins, but it should be consumed in moderation for those managing calorie intake.

Susan Lee (Clinical Nutritionist and Cheese Expert). When assessing how many calories are in a slice of Colby Jack cheese, one must consider the slice thickness and moisture content. A typical slice of about one ounce contains approximately 110 calories. This cheese is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, but its caloric density means that portion control is key for balanced nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a typical slice of Colby Jack cheese?
A standard slice of Colby Jack cheese, approximately 28 grams or one ounce, contains about 110 calories.

Does the calorie content vary between different brands of Colby Jack cheese?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly depending on the brand and thickness of the slice, but it generally ranges from 100 to 120 calories per slice.

How does the fat content in Colby Jack cheese affect its calorie count?
Colby Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese with moderate fat content, typically around 9 grams per slice, which contributes significantly to its calorie count.

Are there lower-calorie alternatives to Colby Jack cheese?
Yes, reduced-fat or part-skim versions of Colby Jack cheese offer fewer calories while maintaining similar flavor profiles.

Can the calorie content in Colby Jack cheese impact a weight management diet?
Yes, due to its calorie density, portion control is important when including Colby Jack cheese in a weight management plan.

How does the serving size affect the calorie calculation for Colby Jack cheese?
Calorie counts are based on standard serving sizes; increasing the portion size proportionally increases the total calorie intake.
In summary, a typical slice of Colby Jack cheese contains approximately 100 calories, though this value can vary slightly depending on the thickness and brand. This cheese combines the creamy texture of Colby with the mild flavor of Monterey Jack, making it a popular choice for sandwiches, snacks, and recipes. Understanding the calorie content is essential for those monitoring their dietary intake or managing their nutritional goals.

It is important to note that while Colby Jack cheese provides a moderate amount of calories, it also offers valuable nutrients such as protein and calcium. However, due to its fat content, portion control is advisable to maintain a balanced diet. Consumers should consider these factors when incorporating Colby Jack cheese into their meals to optimize both flavor and health benefits.

Overall, being aware of the calorie content in a slice of Colby Jack cheese allows individuals to make informed dietary decisions. Whether used as a snack or an ingredient, this cheese can fit into a variety of eating plans when consumed mindfully. Accurate nutritional information supports better health management and contributes to achieving personal wellness objectives.

Author Profile

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.