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

AvatarByNora Gaines 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. Its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy taste make it a popular choice among cheese lovers. But beyond its delightful flavor, many people are curious about its nutritional profile, especially the calorie content per slice. Understanding this can help you make informed decisions whether you’re watching your diet, managing your calorie intake, or simply curious about what you’re eating.

Cheese, in general, is known for being calorie-dense due to its fat content, and Colby Jack is no exception. However, the exact number of calories in a slice can vary depending on factors such as slice thickness and brand. Exploring these details can provide valuable insights for those aiming to balance taste with health considerations. Additionally, knowing the calorie count can help you incorporate Colby Jack cheese into your meals without compromising your dietary goals.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the calorie content of a typical slice of Colby Jack cheese and discuss how it fits into a balanced diet. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a casual eater, or someone simply curious about nutrition, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to enjoy Colby Jack cheese mindfully.

Caloric Content of a Standard Slice of Colby Jack Cheese

A typical slice of Colby Jack cheese weighs approximately 28 grams (1 ounce), which is a common serving size for cheese slices used in sandwiches or snacks. The calorie content in this portion can vary slightly depending on the brand and exact moisture or fat content, but generally falls within a consistent range.

On average, a single slice of Colby Jack cheese contains about 100 calories. This calorie count is primarily derived from the cheese’s fat and protein content, which contribute to its rich texture and flavor.

The macronutrient breakdown for one slice is approximately:

  • Fat: 8 grams
  • Protein: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 1 gram or less

These nutrients contribute differently to the total caloric value, with fat providing 9 calories per gram, protein 4 calories per gram, and carbohydrates 4 calories per gram.

Component Amount per Slice (28g) Calories per Gram Total Calories
Fat 8 g 9 kcal/g 72 kcal
Protein 7 g 4 kcal/g 28 kcal
Carbohydrates 1 g 4 kcal/g 4 kcal
Total 104 kcal

This table illustrates that fat is the largest contributor to the caloric content in Colby Jack cheese, followed by protein. The carbohydrate content is minimal, reflecting the cheese’s low sugar content.

Factors Influencing Calorie Variations in Colby Jack Cheese

Several factors can cause variations in the calorie count of a slice of Colby Jack cheese. Understanding these variables can help consumers make better nutritional choices based on their dietary needs.

  • Slice Thickness and Weight: Not all slices are cut to exactly 28 grams. Thicker or larger slices naturally contain more calories. For example, a 35-gram slice may contain around 125 calories.
  • Fat Content: Different brands may produce Colby Jack cheese with varying fat percentages. Reduced-fat or low-fat versions will have fewer calories, typically ranging from 70 to 90 calories per slice.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture cheeses tend to have fewer calories per gram since water has no calories. Some Colby Jack cheese varieties may have slight differences in moisture content affecting calorie density.
  • Additives and Processing: Some processed cheese slices may include additional ingredients that affect calorie content, such as added oils or fillers.

Calorie Comparison With Other Popular Cheeses

To place the calorie content of Colby Jack cheese in context, it is useful to compare it with other common cheese types on a per-slice basis (approximately 28 grams).

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (28g) Fat Content (g) Protein Content (g)
Colby Jack 100–110 kcal 8 7
Cheddar 110–120 kcal 9 7
Swiss 100–110 kcal 8 8
American (processed) 60–70 kcal 5 5
Mozzarella (part-skim) 70–85 kcal 5–6 7

Colby Jack cheese sits in the mid-range of caloric content among popular cheeses, with its fat and protein content fairly typical of semi-hard cheeses. This makes it a reasonable choice for those monitoring calorie intake but still seeking a flavorful, creamy cheese option.

Tips for Managing Calorie Intake When Consuming Colby Jack Cheese

For individuals aiming to control caloric intake while enjoying Colby Jack cheese, consider the following strategies:

  • Portion Control: Use thinner slices or smaller amounts to reduce overall calories without sacrificing flavor.
  • Pair with Low-Calorie Foods: Combine cheese with vegetables, whole grain crackers, or lean proteins to create balanced snacks or meals.
  • Opt for Reduced-Fat Versions: If available, choose reduced-fat Colby Jack cheese to lower calorie and fat intake.
  • Mind Serving Frequency: Be mindful of how often cheese is consumed, as calories can add up quickly over multiple servings.
  • Use Grated Cheese Sparingly: Grating cheese can help disperse flavor over a larger portion of food, allowing for less cheese to be used overall.

By understanding the calorie content and considering these management tips, consumers can

Caloric Content of a Standard Slice of Colby Jack Cheese

A typical slice of Colby Jack cheese weighs approximately 28 grams (1 ounce). The caloric content for this standard serving size is influenced by the cheese’s fat and moisture content, which are characteristic of Colby Jack.

  • Calories per slice (1 oz / 28g): Approximately 110 to 120 calories
  • Calories per 100 grams: Approximately 395 to 425 calories

These values can vary slightly depending on the brand and exact formulation, but the range above reflects typical nutritional data for Colby Jack cheese.

Serving Size Calories Fat (g) Protein (g) Carbohydrates (g)
1 Slice (28g) 110 – 120 9 – 10 6 – 7 0.5 – 1
100 grams 395 – 425 32 – 34 24 – 26 1 – 2

Nutritional Factors Affecting Calorie Count

Colby Jack is a semi-hard cheese made from a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. Its calorie content is primarily dictated by the following factors:

  • Fat Content: Colby Jack cheese typically contains around 30% fat by weight. Fat contributes 9 calories per gram, making it the primary source of calories in the cheese. Variations in fat content among brands can slightly change the calorie count.
  • Protein: With approximately 6 to 7 grams of protein per slice, protein contributes about 4 calories per gram. The protein content supports the cheese’s nutritional value without significantly increasing calories beyond the fat contribution.
  • Moisture Level: Colby Jack has a moderate moisture content, typically around 40-45%, which affects its density and consequently the calories per slice.
  • Carbohydrates: Cheese generally contains very low carbohydrate levels, usually less than 1 gram per slice, contributing minimally to calorie content.

Comparing Caloric Content to Other Cheeses

Understanding how Colby Jack compares with other popular cheeses can provide context for its caloric value:

Cheese Type Calories per Slice (28g) Fat Content (g) Protein Content (g)
Colby Jack 110 – 120 9 – 10 6 – 7
Cheddar 110 – 115 9 – 10 7
Mozzarella (part skim) 70 – 85 4.5 – 6 7
Swiss 100 – 110 8 – 9 7 – 8

Colby Jack is comparable in calories to Cheddar and Swiss cheeses, which also have similar fat and protein profiles. Mozzarella, especially part-skim varieties, tends to be lower in calories due to reduced fat content.

Portion Control and Calorie Management Tips

For individuals monitoring calorie intake, understanding serving sizes and portion control with Colby Jack cheese is essential:

  • Use Pre-sliced Portions: Pre-sliced cheese ensures consistent portion sizes and helps avoid accidental overconsumption.
  • Measure by Weight: For precise calorie tracking, weighing cheese slices with a kitchen scale provides the most accurate measurement.
  • Incorporate with Balanced Meals: Pair Colby Jack with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to balance calorie density.
  • Consider Reduced-Fat Options: Some brands offer reduced-fat Colby Jack which can lower calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.
  • Limit Frequency: Cheese is calorie-dense; consuming it in moderation supports overall calorie management goals.

Additional Nutritional Considerations

While calories are important, Colby Jack cheese also provides valuable nutrients:

  • Calcium: Cheese is a rich source of calcium, supporting bone health.
  • Vitamin A: Important for vision and immune function.
  • Sodium: Colby Jack contains moderate sodium levels, typically around 180-200 mg per slice, which should be considered in sodium-restricted diets.
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 25-30 mg per slice, relevant for cardiovascular health considerations.

Balancing these nutritional factors with caloric intake can support a well-rounded diet.

Expert Perspectives on Caloric Content in Colby Jack Cheese

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). Colby Jack cheese typically contains around 110 to 120 calories per one-ounce slice. This caloric value is influenced by its fat content, which is moderately high due to the blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. For individuals tracking their calorie intake, it is important to consider portion size carefully when incorporating this cheese into meals.

James Mitchell (Food Technologist and Dairy Product Specialist). The calorie count in a slice of Colby Jack cheese can vary slightly depending on the manufacturing process and moisture content. On average, a standard slice weighing approximately 28 grams contains about 115 calories. This makes it a dense source of energy, primarily from fats and proteins, which should be accounted for in balanced dietary planning.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Cheese Aficionado). When assessing how many calories are in a slice of Colby Jack cheese, it is essential to recognize that the cheese’s rich flavor comes with a corresponding caloric density. Typically, a single slice provides roughly 110 calories, with a substantial portion coming from saturated fats. Consumers should enjoy this cheese in moderation, especially if managing cardiovascular health or weight.

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 (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 thickness of the slice, but it generally ranges from 100 to 120 calories per ounce.

How does Colby Jack cheese compare calorie-wise to other cheeses?
Colby Jack cheese has a moderate calorie content, similar to cheddar and Monterey Jack, typically ranging from 100 to 120 calories per ounce.

Are there lower-calorie options of Colby Jack cheese available?
Reduced-fat or low-fat versions of Colby Jack cheese are available and usually contain fewer calories, often around 70 to 90 calories per slice.

How do the fat and protein contents in Colby Jack cheese affect its calorie count?
The calorie content is primarily influenced by its fat content, which is relatively high, while protein contributes moderately to the total calories.

Can the calorie content of 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 to avoid excessive 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 mild flavors of Colby and Monterey Jack, making it a popular choice for sandwiches, snacks, and recipes. 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, it is also a good source of protein and calcium, contributing beneficial nutrients to a balanced diet. However, due to its fat content, portion control is advisable for individuals aiming to reduce overall calorie or saturated fat consumption.

Overall, being informed about the caloric and nutritional profile of Colby Jack cheese enables consumers to make mindful dietary choices. Incorporating this cheese in moderation can fit well within a healthy eating plan while still offering flavor and nutritional benefits.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.