Aldi is known for its budget-friendly prices. Consumers focused on nutrition may wonder if the discount grocer offers healthy options, particularly in dairy. The answer is yes, Aldi does carry a selection of low-fat and reduced-fat cheeses, primarily through its private labels such as Happy Farms, Friendly Farms, and sometimes Simply Nature.
Understanding Aldi's Cheese Brands
Aldi mainly sells store brands to keep prices low. Their key dairy brands include:
- Happy Farms: This is the most common cheese brand, offering options from blocks to shredded and sliced varieties, including reduced-fat selections.
- Friendly Farms: This brand focuses on general dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese, with low-fat alternatives available.
- Simply Nature: Aldi’s organic and non-GMO line often includes healthier cheese options, like part-skim mozzarella.
Specific Low-Fat Cheese Products at Aldi
Consumers aiming to reduce fat intake have several reliable choices across cheese types:
Reduced-Fat Shredded Cheeses
Aldi typically has reduced-fat versions of popular shredded cheeses clearly marked as made with 2% milk. They are suitable for tacos, casseroles, or salads.
- Happy Farms Shredded 2% Milk Mexican Style Cheese Blend: A popular mix of reduced-fat cheeses, ideal for Tex-Mex dishes.
- Happy Farms Shredded 2% Milk Reduced Fat Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A choice for those who want cheddar flavor with less fat.
Reduced-Fat Sliced and Block Cheeses
Aldi offers sliced options for sandwiches and snacks:
- Happy Farms 2% Milk Reduced Fat American Cheese Singles: These slices have less fat than their full-fat counterparts, often with about 33% less fat.
Lower-Fat Spreads and Specialty Cheeses
Aldi provides lower-fat alternatives for cheese spreads:
- Friendly Farms Low Fat Small Curd Cottage Cheese: Made with 1% milkfat, this is a high-protein, low-fat choice.
- Happy Farms Neufchatel Cheese: This spreadable cheese is similar to cream cheese but has one-third less fat, making it a healthier option for bagels or recipes.
Comparison Table: Aldi Low-Fat Options vs. Regular
Here is a comparison of nutritional profiles found at Aldi (values may vary):
| Product Type | Aldi Reduced-Fat Option (e.g., Happy Farms 2%) | Typical Full-Fat Equivalent | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Singles | ~45-60 calories, 2-3g fat | ~80-90 calories, 6-7g fat | Significantly lower fat. |
| Shredded Cheddar | ~90 calories, 6g fat (per 1/4 cup) | ~110 calories, 9g fat (per 1/4 cup) | About 33% less fat. |
| Cottage Cheese | ~90 calories, 1g fat (per 1/2 cup) | ~120 calories, 4-5g fat (per 1/2 cup) | Much lower milkfat percentage. |
| Cream Cheese Spread | Neufchatel (1/3 less fat) | Full-fat Cream Cheese | Significantly reduced saturated fat. |
Tips for Finding and Choosing Low-Fat Cheese at Aldi
Read the Label Carefully
Check the nutritional label and ingredients list. Look for terms like "reduced fat," "low-fat," "part-skim," or "made with 2% milk" since Aldi rotates inventory. The UK stores, for example, have an "Emporium Light" range.
Look for Private Label Names
Focus on Aldi's house brands, as national low-fat brands are not usually available.
Check the "Aldi Finds" Aisle
Occasionally, "Aldi Finds" include healthy or reduced-fat dairy products not available year-round.
Conclusion
To answer the question, "Does Aldi carry low-fat cheese?"—yes, it does. Aldi offers a selection of reduced-fat cheeses under its brands, such as Happy Farms and Friendly Farms. Shoppers can find budget-friendly, healthier alternatives, such as 2% milk shredded blends, reduced-fat American singles, and 1% cottage cheese during their regular shopping trips.
For more information on the nutritional value of cheese and how it fits into a healthy diet, you can check out the USDA's FoodData Central Database.