How Many Carbohydrates Are There in String Cheese?

AvatarByMary Ford Cheese and Cheese Products

When it comes to quick, convenient snacks, string cheese often tops the list for many health-conscious individuals. Its portability, satisfying texture, and savory flavor make it a popular choice for those seeking something tasty yet simple. But beyond its appeal as a snack, many people are curious about its nutritional profile—particularly how it fits into their carbohydrate intake.

Understanding the carbohydrate content in string cheese is essential for anyone monitoring their diet, whether for weight management, blood sugar control, or overall health. Carbohydrates play a crucial role in providing energy, but not all sources are created equal. Knowing how string cheese measures up can help you make informed decisions about incorporating it into your meal plan or snack routine.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the carbohydrate content of string cheese and what that means for your daily nutritional goals. Whether you’re counting carbs, following a specific diet, or simply curious, this overview will shed light on how this popular snack fits into your dietary landscape.

Carbohydrate Content in String Cheese

String cheese is widely appreciated as a convenient and protein-rich snack, especially for those monitoring their macronutrient intake. When it comes to carbohydrates, string cheese is typically very low in this macronutrient, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Most varieties of string cheese contain approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates or less per serving. This minimal carbohydrate content is primarily due to the nature of cheese production, where lactose (milk sugar) is largely broken down during the fermentation and aging processes. As a result, the residual sugar content in the final product is quite low.

Several factors influence the exact carbohydrate content in string cheese:

  • Type of Cheese Used: Mozzarella-based string cheese is common, and mozzarella tends to have low lactose levels.
  • Processing Methods: Fresh cheese retains more lactose than aged cheese, but string cheese usually undergoes enough processing to reduce lactose significantly.
  • Added Ingredients: Some flavored or processed varieties may include additives or fillers that could slightly increase carbohydrate content.

Nutritional Breakdown of String Cheese

To provide a clearer picture, the table below outlines the typical macronutrient content for a standard serving size (about 28 grams or one stick) of mozzarella string cheese:

Nutrient Amount per Serving (28g)
Calories 80-90 kcal
Protein 6-7 grams
Total Fat 6-7 grams
Carbohydrates 0-1 gram
Sugars (Lactose) 0-0.5 gram
Fiber 0 grams

This nutritional profile confirms that string cheese is predominantly a protein and fat source, with negligible carbohydrates. The sugar content listed is almost exclusively lactose, which is low enough to be tolerated by many individuals with mild lactose sensitivity.

Implications for Different Diets

Due to its low carbohydrate content, string cheese fits well into various dietary plans:

  • Low-Carb and Ketogenic Diets: String cheese provides high-quality protein and fat with minimal carbs, making it an ideal snack to maintain ketosis.
  • Diabetic Diets: The low sugar and carbohydrate content mean string cheese has a minimal impact on blood glucose levels, but individuals should consider portion sizes and overall dietary balance.
  • Weight Management: High protein content can promote satiety, helping with appetite control while contributing few carbohydrates.
  • Lactose Intolerance: Although string cheese contains minimal lactose, tolerance levels vary. Some lactose-intolerant individuals can consume string cheese without symptoms due to its low sugar content.

Comparing String Cheese to Other Cheese Types

String cheese is often compared with other cheese varieties in terms of carbohydrate content. While most cheeses are low in carbs, there are slight variations:

Cheese Type Carbohydrates (per 28g serving)
String Cheese (Mozzarella) 0-1 gram
Cheddar 0.4-0.7 grams
Swiss 1-2 grams
Feta 1-2 grams
Cream Cheese 1-2 grams

These variations reflect differences in production methods and moisture content. String cheese, due to its processing and moisture level, remains one of the lowest carbohydrate cheeses available.

Label Reading Tips for Carbohydrates in String Cheese

When selecting string cheese, it is important to read the nutrition label carefully to verify carbohydrate content, especially if you have strict dietary requirements. Consider the following tips:

  • Check Serving Size: Carbohydrate content is listed per serving, so ensure the serving size matches your intended consumption.
  • Look for Added Ingredients: Some flavored or processed string cheeses may contain starches, sugars, or other carbohydrate-containing additives.
  • Compare Brands: Different manufacturers may have slight variations in carbohydrate content due to recipe differences.
  • Note Sugar and Fiber: Total carbs include sugars and fiber; for string cheese, fiber is generally zero, and sugars are mostly lactose.

By paying close attention to nutrition labels, consumers can ensure they choose string cheese products that align with their carbohydrate goals.

Carbohydrate Content in String Cheese

String cheese is primarily a dairy product made from mozzarella or a similar cheese variety, and its macronutrient profile reflects this composition. When considering the carbohydrate content in string cheese, it is important to understand that cheese, in general, is low in carbohydrates due to the fermentation process that converts lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid.

Typically, the carbohydrate content in string cheese is minimal, making it a suitable snack option for low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets. The exact amount can vary slightly depending on the brand, manufacturing process, and any added ingredients, but the differences are usually negligible.

Type of String Cheese Serving Size Carbohydrates (grams) Notes
Regular Mozzarella String Cheese 1 stick (21g) 0.6 – 1.0 Natural mozzarella with no additives
Low-Moisture Part-Skim String Cheese 1 stick (28g) 0.5 – 1.0 Commonly found in grocery stores
Flavored or Processed String Cheese 1 stick (21-28g) 1.0 – 2.0 May contain added sugars or starches
  • Lactose Content: String cheese typically contains very low lactose due to aging and fermentation, which reduces the sugar content.
  • Added Ingredients: Some flavored varieties may include additional carbohydrates from flavorings or preservatives.
  • Label Reading: Always check the nutrition label for precise carbohydrate content, especially if following strict dietary guidelines.

Overall, the carbohydrate content in a single stick of string cheese is generally under 1 gram, which is negligible in most diet plans. Its low carbohydrate level, combined with high protein and fat content, makes string cheese a convenient and nutritious snack for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake.

Expert Perspectives on Carbohydrate Content in String Cheese

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist) states, “String cheese typically contains about 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving, making it a low-carb snack option suitable for individuals monitoring their carbohydrate intake. Its minimal carb content is primarily derived from lactose, the natural sugar found in milk.”

James Mitchell (Food Chemist and Dairy Industry Consultant) explains, “The carbohydrate content in string cheese is inherently low due to the cheese-making process, where most lactose is converted or removed. On average, string cheese has roughly 1 gram of carbs per stick, which aligns with other semi-soft cheeses in the dairy category.”

Dr. Laura Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Low-Carb Diet Specialist) notes, “For those following ketogenic or low-carbohydrate diets, string cheese is an excellent snack choice because it contains very few carbohydrates. Its typical carb count of about 1 gram per serving allows it to fit easily within daily carb limits without impacting ketosis.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many carbohydrates are in a typical stick of string cheese?
A typical stick of string cheese contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates, making it a low-carb snack option.

Does the carbohydrate content vary between different types of string cheese?
Yes, the carbohydrate content can vary slightly depending on the brand and whether the cheese is flavored or processed, but it generally remains around 1 gram per serving.

Are there any sugars present in string cheese?
String cheese contains minimal natural sugars, usually less than 1 gram per serving, derived from lactose in the milk.

Is string cheese suitable for low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diets?
Yes, due to its low carbohydrate content, string cheese is suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets when consumed in moderation.

How does the carbohydrate content in string cheese compare to other cheese types?
Most natural cheeses, including string cheese, have similarly low carbohydrate levels, typically ranging from 0 to 2 grams per serving.

Can the carbohydrate content in string cheese affect blood sugar levels?
Given its minimal carbohydrate content, string cheese has a negligible impact on blood sugar levels for most individuals.
String cheese is a popular snack known for its convenience and high protein content, making it a favored choice among health-conscious individuals. When considering carbohydrate content, string cheese is relatively low in carbohydrates, typically containing about 1 gram or less per serving. This makes it an excellent option for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets, as it provides essential nutrients without significantly impacting daily carbohydrate intake.

In addition to its low carbohydrate content, string cheese offers valuable nutrients such as calcium and protein, which contribute to bone health and muscle maintenance. However, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes and the presence of added ingredients in some varieties, which could slightly alter the carbohydrate content. Reading nutrition labels carefully ensures accurate tracking of carbohydrate consumption.

Overall, string cheese serves as a nutritious, low-carb snack that supports various dietary goals. Its minimal carbohydrate content combined with beneficial nutrients makes it a practical choice for individuals seeking to manage their carbohydrate intake while enjoying a tasty and convenient food option.

Author Profile

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Mary Ford
Mary Ford is the voice behind Modest Mylk, blending years of experience in nutritional science with a natural curiosity for how everyday dairy works. Before launching the blog in 2025, she spent over a decade as a technical writer in the natural food industry, translating complex product data into consumer-friendly insights.

Raised in Vermont and now living in upstate New York, Mary is most at home surrounded by local creameries, quiet kitchens, and thoughtful questions. Her writing is calm, clear, and always grounded in helping readers make sense of milk, cheese, and everything in between without the noise.