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

AvatarByMary Davis Cheese

When it comes to enjoying a delicious sandwich or adding a flavorful touch to your favorite recipes, Colby Jack cheese often takes center stage. Known for its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy taste, this cheese blend is a popular choice among cheese lovers. But beyond its appealing flavor, many people are curious about its nutritional profile—particularly, how many calories are packed into a single slice.

Understanding the calorie content of Colby Jack cheese can be an important factor for those mindful of their diet, whether they’re tracking daily intake, managing weight, or simply aiming to make informed food choices. Cheese, while nutritious and satisfying, can vary widely in calorie density depending on the type and serving size. This makes it essential to have a clear idea of what a typical slice contributes to your overall caloric consumption.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the calorie count of a slice of Colby Jack cheese and provide context to help you balance indulgence with nutrition. Whether you’re a casual eater or someone closely monitoring your diet, gaining insight into this popular cheese’s calorie content will empower you to enjoy it with confidence.

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of Colby Jack Cheese

Colby Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese combining Colby and Monterey Jack varieties, known for its mild flavor and creamy texture. When considering its caloric content, it is important to understand that factors such as slice thickness, weight, and moisture content influence the total calories per slice.

On average, a standard slice of Colby Jack cheese weighs approximately 28 grams (1 ounce). This typical serving size contains roughly 110 calories. These calories primarily come from fat and protein, with minimal carbohydrates.

Key nutritional components in a one-ounce slice of Colby Jack cheese include:

  • Calories: Approximately 110 kcal
  • Total Fat: 9 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 6 grams
  • Protein: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 1 gram or less
  • Calcium: Around 200 mg (about 20% of daily recommended intake)
Nutrient Amount per 1 oz (28g) Slice % Daily Value*
Calories 110 kcal 5%
Total Fat 9 g 14%
Saturated Fat 6 g 30%
Cholesterol 30 mg 10%
Sodium 180 mg 8%
Protein 7 g 14%
Carbohydrates 1 g 0%
Calcium 200 mg 20%

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

Understanding these values is crucial for those managing caloric intake or monitoring macronutrients. The high fat content, especially saturated fat, reflects the cheese’s rich flavor profile but may require moderation depending on dietary goals.

Factors Affecting Calorie Count in Cheese Slices

The caloric value of a slice of Colby Jack cheese can vary based on several factors:

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Thicker slices contain more cheese and thus more calories. For example, a half-ounce slice would have approximately 55 calories, while a 2-ounce slice could exceed 220 calories.
  • Moisture Content: Colby Jack cheese typically contains about 40-45% moisture. Higher moisture cheeses tend to have slightly fewer calories per gram because water adds weight without calories.
  • Brand and Processing: Different manufacturers may have slight variations in fat content or additives, affecting caloric density. Always check the nutrition label for precise information.
  • Serving Style: Grated or shredded Colby Jack cheese may lead to different portion sizes compared to pre-sliced pieces, impacting calorie estimation.

Comparing Colby Jack Calories to Other Cheeses

Colby Jack cheese is often compared to other semi-hard cheeses such as Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby. The calorie contents are generally similar, but subtle differences exist due to fat and moisture levels.

Cheese Type Calories per 1 oz (28g) Slice Total Fat (g) Protein (g)
Colby Jack 110 9 7
Cheddar 115 9.5 7
Monterey Jack 100 8 7
Colby 110 9 7

These minor differences are unlikely to impact most diets significantly but can be relevant for precise meal planning or calorie tracking.

Tips for Managing Calorie Intake When Consuming Colby Jack Cheese

  • Portion Control: Use a kitchen scale or pre-sliced cheese to monitor portion sizes accurately.
  • Incorporate with Balanced Meals: Pair cheese with vegetables, whole grains, or lean proteins to create nutrient-dense meals.
  • Choose Lower-Fat Versions: Some brands offer reduced-fat Colby Jack cheese, which can lower calories and saturated fat.
  • Mind Added Ingredients: When using cheese in recipes, consider additional calorie sources like bread, sauces, or oils.
  • Consider Frequency: Enjoy cheese in moderation as part of a diverse diet to maintain overall calorie balance.

By understanding these factors, individuals can better integrate Colby Jack cheese into their dietary plans while managing caloric intake effectively.

Caloric Content of a Slice of Colby Jack Cheese

The caloric value of a slice of Colby Jack cheese depends primarily on the slice’s weight and thickness, as cheese calories are typically measured per ounce or gram. Colby Jack is a semi-hard cheese made from a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses, known for its creamy texture and mild flavor.

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

Serving Size Calories Protein (g) Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
1 slice (28 g / 1 oz) 110-120 kcal 7 g 9-10 g 0-1 g

The variation in calorie count arises due to differences in slice thickness and brand-specific formulations. Typically, Colby Jack contains approximately 110 to 120 calories per slice, making it a moderate-calorie cheese option.

Nutritional Breakdown and Factors Affecting Calories

Colby Jack cheese’s caloric content is influenced by its macronutrient composition, primarily fat and protein content. Here is a detailed look at the nutritional components contributing to the calorie count:

  • Fat: Fat is the most calorie-dense macronutrient in cheese, providing about 9 calories per gram. Colby Jack typically contains 9 to 10 grams of fat per slice, contributing significantly to the total calories.
  • Protein: Protein provides about 4 calories per gram. With around 7 grams of protein per slice, it adds a moderate number of calories while supporting muscle maintenance and satiety.
  • Carbohydrates: Cheese contains minimal carbohydrates, usually less than 1 gram per slice, contributing negligible calories.

Additional factors affecting the caloric value include:

  • Slice Thickness: Thicker slices contain more cheese by weight, increasing calorie content proportionally.
  • Moisture Content: Variations in moisture can affect density and, consequently, calorie density per slice.
  • Brand and Processing: Some brands may add cream or use slightly different recipes, which can increase fat and calorie content.

Comparison with Other Popular Cheeses

Understanding how Colby Jack compares to other cheeses can help in dietary planning. Below is a comparison of calories in one-ounce slices of several common cheeses:

Cheese Type Calories (per 1 oz / 28 g) Fat (g) Protein (g)
Colby Jack 110-120 kcal 9-10 g 7 g
Cheddar 115-120 kcal 9-10 g 7 g
Swiss 105-110 kcal 8-9 g 7-8 g
Monterey Jack 100-110 kcal 8-9 g 7 g
Mozzarella (part-skim) 70-85 kcal 4-6 g 7 g

Colby Jack cheese is relatively calorie-dense compared to some lower-fat cheese options like part-skim mozzarella but aligns closely with other semi-hard cheeses such as Cheddar and Swiss.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Colby Jack Cheese

Dr. Melissa Grant (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Colby Jack cheese typically contains around 100 calories per one-ounce slice. This caloric value can vary slightly depending on the brand and fat content, but it generally provides a moderate amount of energy, making it a reasonable choice for those monitoring their calorie intake while still seeking a flavorful cheese option.

James Thornton (Food Chemist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie count in a slice of Colby Jack cheese is influenced by its fat and moisture levels. On average, a standard slice weighing about 28 grams contains approximately 110 calories, with the majority coming from fats. Understanding these components helps consumers make informed decisions about portion sizes and nutritional balance.

Elena Rodriguez (Clinical Nutritionist and Wellness Consultant). When advising clients on cheese consumption, I emphasize that a slice of Colby Jack cheese provides a concentrated source of calories primarily from fat and protein. Typically, one slice contains roughly 100 to 115 calories, which should be factored into daily dietary plans, especially for individuals aiming to manage weight or maintain cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a typical slice of Colby Jack cheese?
A standard slice of Colby Jack cheese, weighing approximately 28 grams (1 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 exact slice thickness, but most slices range between 100 to 120 calories.

What macronutrients contribute to the calories in Colby Jack cheese?
The calories primarily come from fat and protein, with fat contributing the majority, followed by moderate protein content and minimal carbohydrates.

Is Colby Jack cheese a good option for a low-calorie diet?
Colby Jack cheese is relatively calorie-dense due to its fat content, so it should be consumed in moderation within a low-calorie diet.

How does the calorie content of Colby Jack cheese compare to other cheeses?
Colby Jack has a similar calorie range to other semi-hard cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack, generally around 100–120 calories per ounce.

Can the calorie content of Colby Jack cheese affect weight management?
Yes, because of its high fat and calorie content, excessive consumption can contribute to calorie surplus, impacting weight management efforts.
In summary, a typical slice of Colby Jack cheese contains approximately 100 calories, though this can vary slightly depending on the thickness and brand. This cheese combines the mild flavors of Colby and Monterey Jack, making it a popular choice for sandwiches, snacks, and melting applications. Understanding the calorie content is essential for those monitoring their daily caloric intake or managing dietary goals.

It is important to consider that while Colby Jack cheese provides a moderate calorie count per slice, it is also a rich source of protein, calcium, and essential fats. These nutrients contribute to its role in a balanced diet but should be consumed in moderation due to its saturated fat and sodium content. Being mindful of portion sizes can help maintain nutritional balance without compromising flavor.

Overall, incorporating Colby Jack cheese into meals can be part of a healthy eating plan when consumed thoughtfully. Awareness of its calorie content enables individuals to make informed dietary choices, particularly in contexts such as weight management or specific nutritional requirements. Consulting nutrition labels and adjusting portions accordingly will ensure that cheese consumption aligns with personal health objectives.

Author Profile

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.