Nutritional Value of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: What’s Inside Every Bite

The nutritional value of shredded mozzarella cheese is that it’s a good source of protein and calcium. It’s also a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Nutritional value of shredded mozzarella cheese

Grated mozzarella cheese is characterized by its high nutritional value and offers many health benefits. Its most important features include:

• An excellent source of protein: It contains a high percentage of protein necessary for building and repairing body tissues and supporting muscle health.
• Rich in calcium: It is a very good source of calcium, an essential mineral for healthy bones and teeth, and helps prevent osteoporosis.
• Contains phosphorus: It provides a good amount of phosphorus, which works alongside calcium to strengthen bones and teeth and also plays a role in energy production.
• A source of zinc: It contains zinc, which enhances immune function and aids in wound healing and DNA synthesis.
• Contains important vitamins: It provides certain vitamins, such as vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision, skin, and immunity; vitamin D, which aids in calcium absorption; and vitamin B12, which is essential for nerve function and red blood cell production.
• Contains probiotics (in some varieties): Fresh mozzarella cheese made from raw milk may contain probiotic bacteria that are beneficial for digestive health and boost immunity. Low in carbohydrates: It is considered a low-carb food, making it suitable for people following low-carb diets.
• Contains healthy fats: It provides essential fats for the body’s health and aids in the absorption of certain vitamins.
• Less sodium than other types of cheese: It generally contains less sodium than some other types of cheese.

What’s the difference between grated mozzarella and shredded mozzarella?

The difference between grated mozzarella and shredded mozzarella lies primarily in the preparation method and size, which influences their uses and cooking properties:

Shredded mozzarella:

• Shape: Comes in small strands or fine pieces.
• Pizza: Most commonly used on pizzas because it melts quickly and evenly to cover the entire surface.
• Pasta and lasagna: Easy to mix with sauces and pasta and melts well in the oven.
• Toppings: Can be used in fillings for pie, calzones, or even chicken.
• Dishes that require quick melting and ample coverage.
• Melts quickly and spreads evenly.
• Easy to use and measure.
• Provides good surface coverage.

Sliced ​​mozzarella:

• Shape: Comes in round or rectangular slices or thick cubes.
• Caprese salad: Ideal for serving with tomato and basil slices.
• Sandwiches and paninis: Served as a complete layer inside a sandwich.
• Some types of pizza: Preferably for larger pieces of melted cheese.
• Dishes that require clear pieces of cheese.
• It holds its texture better.
• Suitable for dishes where cheese pieces are clearly visible.
• It is usually less processed than grated cheese (if freshly sliced).

Ingredients of shredded mozzarella cheese

Grated mozzarella cheese is primarily composed of:

• Milk: Pasteurized cow’s milk is usually the main ingredient.
• Lactic acid starter cultures: These starters help ferment the milk and form curds.
• Rennet: An enzyme that helps coagulate milk. Rennet can be animal or microbial.
• Salt: Added for flavor and preservation.

How to store shredded mozzarella cheese?

Storing shredded mozzarella cheese properly ensures it stays fresh for as long as possible and prevents spoilage. Here’s a quick overview:

In the refrigerator:

• Keep it in its original packaging: If the cheese comes in a resealable bag or container, make sure to close it tightly after each use.
• Use airtight packaging: If the original packaging doesn’t reseal well, or if you’re transporting the cheese, place it in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. This prevents it from being exposed to air and moisture, reducing the risk of mold growth and preserving its flavor.
• Place it in the coldest part of the refrigerator: The back shelf or the vegetable drawer is usually the coldest and maintains the most stable temperature. Avoid placing it in the refrigerator door, where the temperature fluctuates the most.
• Use within 5-7 days: Shredded mozzarella cheese typically stays fresh in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days after opening, depending on the production date and how it was stored. 
• Label with the date you opened the package: Labeling the package with the date you opened it helps you track its shelf life and ensure you use it in a timely manner.

In the freezer (for longer storage):

• Can be frozen: Although freezing mozzarella may slightly affect its texture, it’s a good way to preserve it for longer if you don’t plan to use it soon.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container: Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag or container before sealing it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze in portions: If you don’t use large quantities at once, consider freezing it in small portions to make it easier to thaw only the amount you need.
• Use within 3-4 months: Shredded mozzarella can stay frozen well for 3-4 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator: The best way to thaw frozen mozzarella is to refrigerate it overnight or for several hours. Avoid thawing it at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
• Best used in cooking after freezing: Its texture may become more crumbly after freezing and thawing, so it’s best used in cooked dishes like pizza or lasagna where texture isn’t the primary factor.

FAQ

Is mozzarella shredded cheese healthy?

Certainly, grated mozzarella cheese can be part of a healthy diet when eaten in moderation. Here are some of its health benefits:

• A good source of protein: It contains a high percentage of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Rich in calcium: Calcium is important for healthy bones and teeth.
• Contains other minerals, such as phosphorus, zinc, and magnesium, which play important roles in various bodily functions.
• May contain probiotics: Some types of fresh mozzarella made from raw milk contain beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that promote gut health.
• Typically lower in sodium: Compared to other types of cheese.
• Contains vitamins, such as vitamin A and vitamin B12.

Is mozzarella cheese fat or protein?

In fact, mozzarella cheese contains both fat and protein. However, it is a good source of protein in addition to containing a percentage of fat. Let me give you some approximate nutritional values ​​for 100 grams of full-fat mozzarella cheese:

• Protein: About 22-25 grams.
• Fat: About 21-22 grams.

So, it can be said that it contains similar amounts of protein and fat. However, its good protein content is often emphasized.

How many calories are in 50g of shredded mozzarella cheese?

The number of calories in grated mozzarella cheese varies slightly depending on the brand and the type of milk used (whole or low-fat). However, on average, 50 grams of grated mozzarella cheese contains approximately:

• Full-fat mozzarella cheese: approximately 140-160 calories.
• Low-fat mozzarella cheese: approximately 120-140 calories.

Finally, we discussed the nutritional value of shredded mozzarella cheese. Shredded mozzarella cheese contains a high percentage of protein, which is essential for building and repairing body tissue, supporting immune function, and keeping you feeling full.

It’s also an excellent source of calcium, a mineral vital for healthy bones and teeth, nerve and muscle function, and regulating heartbeat.