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

AvatarByCynthia Crase Cheese

When it comes to snacking or adding a flavorful touch to your meals, Colby Jack cheese often stands out as a popular choice. Its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy taste make it a favorite in sandwiches, burgers, and cheese platters alike. But beyond its delicious flavor, many people are curious about the nutritional aspects—particularly, how many calories are packed into a single slice of this beloved cheese.

Understanding the calorie content of Colby Jack cheese can be an important factor for those managing their diet, whether for weight control, fitness goals, or general health awareness. Cheese, while nutritious and rich in protein and calcium, can also be calorie-dense, so knowing what you’re consuming helps make informed decisions. This article will explore the calorie count in a typical slice of Colby Jack cheese and offer insights into how it fits into various dietary plans.

As we delve deeper, you’ll discover not only the calorie information but also how portion size, preparation methods, and brand variations can influence the nutritional profile of Colby Jack cheese. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or simply mindful of your daily intake, this guide aims to provide clear and useful information to enhance your culinary choices.

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of Colby Jack Cheese

Colby Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese blend combining Colby and Monterey Jack varieties, known for its mild flavor and creamy texture. Its caloric content varies slightly depending on the brand and slice thickness, but generally, a standard slice weighing approximately 28 grams (1 ounce) contains around 100 calories.

The calories in Colby Jack cheese primarily come from fats and proteins, which contribute to its rich flavor and satiating qualities. Below is a detailed breakdown of the macronutrient content per typical slice:

Nutrient Amount per Slice (28g) Percentage of Daily Value*
Calories 100 kcal 5%
Total Fat 8 g 10%
Saturated Fat 5 g 25%
Cholesterol 30 mg 10%
Sodium 180 mg 8%
Total Carbohydrates 1 g 0%
Protein 7 g 14%
Calcium 200 mg 20%

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

The fat content, especially saturated fat, is a significant contributor to the calorie count. Despite the fat content, Colby Jack cheese also provides a good source of protein and calcium, making it a nutrient-dense food when consumed in moderation.

Factors Influencing Calorie Count in Cheese Slices

Several factors can affect the exact number of calories in a slice of Colby Jack cheese:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices naturally contain more calories. While 1-ounce slices are standard, some slices may weigh less or more, altering calorie content.
  • Brand and Production Method: Different manufacturers may use varying proportions of milk fat and moisture, affecting calories.
  • Fat Content Variations: Reduced-fat or low-fat versions of Colby Jack cheese are available and contain fewer calories per slice compared to full-fat versions.
  • Additional Ingredients: Some pre-sliced cheeses may include additives or preservatives that marginally change nutritional content.

When monitoring calorie intake, it is essential to check the nutrition label on the specific product to ensure accuracy.

Comparing Caloric Values With Other Cheeses

To provide perspective, here is a comparison of the caloric values of one-ounce slices of various popular cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories per 1 oz Slice Total Fat (g) Protein (g)
Colby Jack 100 kcal 8 7
Cheddar 115 kcal 9.5 7
Monterey Jack 105 kcal 8.5 7
Swiss 106 kcal 8.8 8
Mozzarella (part-skim) 72 kcal 4.5 7

This comparison highlights that Colby Jack cheese falls within a moderate calorie range relative to other commonly consumed cheeses, making it a suitable choice for those seeking flavorful cheese options without excessive caloric intake.

Practical Tips for Managing Cheese Calories in Your Diet

Incorporating Colby Jack cheese into a balanced diet can be enjoyable while controlling calorie intake by considering the following tips:

  • Use thin slices or smaller portions to reduce calories while still gaining flavor.
  • Opt for reduced-fat versions if available, which can cut calories by up to 30%.
  • Combine cheese with high-fiber foods such as vegetables or whole-grain crackers to increase satiety.
  • Be mindful of serving size, especially when adding cheese to sandwiches, salads, or snacks.
  • Keep track of your total daily fat and calorie consumption to maintain balanced nutrition.

These strategies allow for the enjoyment of Colby Jack cheese within a health-conscious eating plan without compromising nutritional goals.

Caloric Content of a Typical Slice of Colby Jack Cheese

Colby Jack cheese is a popular semi-hard cheese known for its mild flavor and marbled appearance. When considering calorie intake, it is important to note that the caloric value can vary depending on the thickness and weight of the slice. Typically, a standard slice of Colby Jack cheese weighs between 20 and 28 grams.

Serving Size Calories Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g)
1 slice (~21 grams) 80-100 7-8 5-6 0.5-1

Factors Influencing Calorie Count

  • Slice Thickness: Thicker slices increase calorie content proportionally.
  • Brand Variations: Different manufacturers may use slightly different recipes impacting fat content.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture content reduces calorie density per gram.

Nutritional Breakdown Per Slice

  • Fat: Colby Jack cheese contains primarily saturated fats, which contribute the most to its calorie content.
  • Protein: Provides a good source of protein, important for muscle maintenance and repair.
  • Carbohydrates: Minimal carbohydrates, usually less than 1 gram per slice.

Practical Considerations for Dietary Planning

  • For individuals monitoring caloric intake, measuring the weight of cheese slices can improve accuracy.
  • Colby Jack cheese can be incorporated into balanced meals, but portion control is recommended.
  • Comparing nutritional labels on packaging helps identify lower-fat or reduced-calorie options.

By understanding the typical caloric value of a slice of Colby Jack cheese and the factors that affect it, consumers can make informed choices aligned with their dietary goals.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Colby Jack Cheese

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist) states, “A typical slice of Colby Jack cheese, weighing approximately 28 grams, contains around 110 calories. This makes it a moderately calorie-dense food, providing a good balance of energy and essential nutrients such as calcium and protein, which are beneficial when consumed in appropriate portions.”

Michael Chen (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist) explains, “The caloric content in a slice of Colby Jack cheese can vary slightly depending on the fat content and thickness of the slice. On average, a standard slice contains between 100 to 120 calories, primarily derived from fats and proteins inherent in the cheese-making process.”

Linda Morales (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Expert) emphasizes, “When considering calorie intake from Colby Jack cheese, it is important to factor in portion control. While one slice offers approximately 110 calories, incorporating it into a balanced diet can contribute valuable nutrients without excessive caloric load, supporting overall health and weight management goals.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a typical slice of Colby Jack cheese?
A typical slice of Colby Jack cheese contains approximately 100 calories, depending on the thickness and weight of the slice.

Does the calorie content vary between different brands of Colby Jack cheese?
Yes, calorie content can vary slightly between brands due to differences in fat content and slice thickness, but variations are generally minimal.

How does the calorie count of Colby Jack cheese compare to other cheeses?
Colby Jack cheese has a moderate calorie count, similar to cheddar and Monterey Jack, typically ranging from 90 to 110 calories per slice.

Is Colby Jack cheese suitable for low-calorie diets?
Colby Jack cheese can be included in low-calorie diets when consumed in moderation, as it provides protein and calcium but is relatively high in fat and calories.

What nutritional factors contribute to the calorie content in Colby Jack cheese?
The calorie content primarily comes from fats and proteins present in the cheese, with fats contributing the majority of the calories.

Can the calorie content of Colby Jack cheese be reduced by choosing low-fat versions?
Yes, low-fat or reduced-fat Colby Jack cheese options typically contain fewer calories per slice compared to the full-fat versions.
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 of the slice. This cheese combines the smooth, mild flavors of Colby and Monterey Jack, making it a popular choice for sandwiches, snacks, and recipes. Understanding the caloric content is essential for those monitoring their dietary intake, especially in relation to fat and protein consumption.

It is important to consider that while Colby Jack cheese offers a good source of calcium and protein, it also contains saturated fats and sodium. Therefore, moderation is key when incorporating it into a balanced diet. For individuals tracking calories closely, weighing the cheese or checking specific product labels can provide more accurate nutritional information.

Overall, Colby Jack cheese can be enjoyed as part of a healthy eating plan when consumed mindfully. Being aware of its calorie content and nutritional profile helps consumers make informed decisions that align with their health goals and dietary needs.

Author Profile

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.