If you are a cheese lover and counting calories, then you might be interested in 1 lb cheddar or American cheese that is fat-free and pasteurized. This cheese has only 671 calories, making it a great choice for those who are watching their weight.
Fat-free cheese is essentially the same as regular cheese, except that it has had the majority of the fat removed. This is usually achieved by using skimmed milk instead of whole milk to make the cheese. Fat-free cheese is a good option for people who are trying to reduce their fat intake but still want to enjoy cheese.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of consuming fat-free cheese, its nutrition information, possible side effects, and how to make it at home. We'll also share some tips on how to use it in cooking and popular brands.
What is Fat-Free Cheese?
Fat-free cheese is a type of cheese that has had the majority of its fat removed. This is usually achieved by using skimmed milk instead of whole milk to make the cheese. The process of making fat-free cheese is similar to that of regular cheese, except that the milk is skimmed before making the cheese. Fat-free cheese is available in a range of types, including cheddar, American, mozzarella, and more. It is a popular choice for people who are watching their weight or trying to reduce their fat intake.
How Many Calories are in Fat-Free Cheese?
The number of calories in fat-free cheese varies depending on the type of cheese and the brand. However, on average, one ounce of fat-free cheese contains around 30-50 calories. One pound of cheddar or American fat-free cheese contains only 671 calories, making it an excellent choice for people who are watching their calorie intake.
Why Choose Fat-Free Cheese?
There are several reasons why you might choose to eat fat-free cheese:
- It contains less fat and calories than regular cheese
- It is a good source of protein and calcium
- It is a great option for people who are lactose intolerant
Fat-free cheese is a good source of protein and calcium. Here is the nutrition information for one ounce of fat-free cheddar cheese:
- 30 calories
- 6 grams of protein
- 20 mg of calcium
- 0 grams of fat
How to Use Fat-Free Cheese in Cooking?
Fat-free cheese can be used in any recipe that calls for regular cheese. However, it is important to keep in mind that fat-free cheese doesn't melt as well as regular cheese, so it may not be the best option for dishes that require cheese to melt, like grilled cheese sandwiches or pizza. Here are some ways you can use fat-free cheese in cooking:
- As a topping for salads
- As a filling for omelets or frittatas
- In quesadillas or tacos
- As a topping for baked potatoes
Benefits of Consuming Fat-Free Cheese
Here are some potential benefits of consuming fat-free cheese:
- Reduced fat and calorie intake
- Increased protein and calcium intake
- Reduced risk of heart disease
- May help with weight loss
Possible Side Effects of Fat-Free Cheese
While fat-free cheese can be a healthy choice for most people, it may cause some side effects in some individuals. Here are some possible side effects:
- Bloating or gas
- Stomach upset
- Allergic reactions in some people
If you experience any of these side effects after consuming fat-free cheese, you should stop eating it and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
How to Store Fat-Free Cheese?
Fat-free cheese should be stored in the refrigerator. Here are some tips for storing fat-free cheese:
- Keep it in its original packaging or wrap it in plastic wrap
- Store it in the cheese drawer of your refrigerator
- Use it within a few days of opening
How to Make Fat-Free Cheese at Home?
While it is possible to make fat-free cheese at home, it can be a time-consuming process. Here is a basic recipe for fat-free cheese:
- Heat 1 gallon of skimmed milk to 85°F in a large pot
- Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar and stir gently until the milk coagulates
- Drain the curds through a cheesecloth-lined colander
- Rinse the curds with cold water
- Press the curds in a cheesecloth-lined mold and let sit for 24 hours
- Remove from the mold and store in the refrigerator
Popular Brands of Fat-Free Cheese
There are many brands of fat-free cheese available in the market. Here are some popular brands:
- Kraft Fat-Free Cheese
- Sargento Fat-Free Cheese
- Tillamook Fat-Free Cheese
- The Laughing Cow Light Cheese
Fat-free cheese is a good option for people who want to reduce their fat intake but still want to enjoy cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fat-Free Cheese
1. How many calories does fat-free cheese contain?
One pound of fat-free cheddar or American cheese contains 671 calories. Compared to regular cheese, fat-free cheese has fewer calories because the fat has been removed.
2. How is the fat removed from fat-free cheese?
Fat-free cheese is made by removing the milk fat from regular cheese. This is done using various techniques, such as skimming or filtering the milk before the cheese is made, or by using enzymes to break down the fat molecules after the cheese is made.
3. Does fat-free cheese taste different from regular cheese?
Fat-free cheese can have a different taste and texture than regular cheese, as the fat plays a role in both of these factors. However, many people find that they can't tell the difference between the two, especially when the cheese is melted or mixed in with other ingredients.
4. Is fat-free cheese healthy?
Fat-free cheese can be a healthier alternative to regular cheese, as it contains fewer calories and less fat. However, it's important to check the label and watch out for added sugars or sodium, which can be found in some fat-free cheese products.
5. How can I use fat-free cheese in my cooking?
Fat-free cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, casseroles, and sandwiches. It's important to note that fat-free cheese doesn't melt as well as regular cheese, so it may not work as well in dishes that require melting. However, it can still add flavor and texture to many dishes.