Does Cheese Raise Your Potassium? Understanding Mineral Content in Dairy

November 22, 2025 •

3 min read

While dairy products, including cheese, do contain potassium, most varieties are not considered high-potassium foods and can be part of a healthy diet. However, mineral levels vary significantly by cheese type, and some processed cheeses or cottage cheese can be higher in potassium.

Quick Summary

Cheese is a source of potassium, but levels differ widely among types. Goat cheese and feta are typically low in potassium, while some cottage cheese varieties contain more. Understanding these differences helps manage dietary mineral intake.

Key Points

Moderate Amounts: For most healthy people, consuming cheese in moderate portions will not cause a significant spike in blood potassium levels.
Variety is Key: Different types of cheese have a wide range of potassium content; some are very low while others, like cottage cheese, are higher.
Check Labels for Additives: Be cautious with low-sodium cheeses, as some use potassium chloride as a salt substitute, increasing the overall potassium level.
Consider Portion Sizes: Smaller portions of strong-flavored cheeses like feta or parmesan contribute less potassium to a meal.
Low-Potassium Choices: Goat cheese, feta, Swiss, and parmesan are generally among the lowest potassium options for those on a restricted diet.
Kidney Health is a Factor: Individuals with kidney disease must monitor not only potassium but also phosphorus and sodium intake from dairy.

The Myth vs. The Reality: Does Cheese Raise Your Potassium?

For most people with healthy kidney function, consuming cheese in moderation will not significantly raise blood potassium levels. Potassium is an essential mineral crucial for nerve function, muscle contraction, and maintaining a healthy heart rhythm. However, for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or those on a low-potassium diet, monitoring intake from all sources, including dairy, is necessary. The notion that cheese universally causes high potassium is a misconception; the reality is far more nuanced and depends heavily on the type and portion size. Other minerals like phosphorus and sodium are often more of a concern in dairy for those with renal issues.

How Potassium Levels Differ by Cheese Type

Not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to their mineral profile. The potassium content can vary dramatically based on the manufacturing process and milk source. Knowing which cheeses are higher or lower can be helpful for dietary planning. For example, some cottage cheese varieties can have moderate potassium levels, while softer, fresh cheeses tend to be lower. Processed cheese, often used in American-style slices, is also known to have higher potassium content, especially if potassium chloride is used as an additive.

Low-Potassium Cheese Options:

Goat Cheese: One of the lowest potassium cheeses available, making it an excellent choice for restricted diets.
Feta Cheese: A flavorful option that is also low in potassium, allowing for smaller, impactful portions.
Swiss Cheese: Known for its low sodium content, Swiss is also a low-potassium variety.
Cream Cheese: A softer cheese with a lower potassium count per ounce.
Brie Cheese: Another soft cheese that is relatively low in potassium.
Parmesan Cheese: A hard, grated cheese that contains very little potassium per serving.

Comparing Potassium Content in Various Cheeses

Here is a comparison of the approximate potassium content in a one-ounce (30g) serving of different cheeses, referencing the variations seen in dietary guidelines.


Cheese Type	Approximate Potassium (mg) per 1 oz (30g)	Notes
Goat Cheese	7-8 mg	Excellent for low-potassium diets.
Parmesan, grated	~10 mg	A little goes a long way.
Feta Cheese	18-19 mg	Strong flavor, use in moderation.
Swiss Cheese	22-23 mg	Lower sodium and potassium.
Mozzarella	22-23 mg	Popular and versatile.
Cream Cheese	~40 mg	Soft cheese with moderate levels.
Processed Cheese Slice	~68 mg	Can be higher due to additives.
Cottage Cheese (1/2 cup)	~149 mg	Notably higher, requires careful portioning.

The Takeaway for Health-Conscious Consumers

For most healthy individuals, cheese does not significantly raise potassium levels, but those with specific health conditions like kidney disease must pay closer attention. The key is mindful consumption and choosing lower-potassium varieties when necessary. Monitoring portion sizes is crucial, especially for types like cottage cheese. Always read nutrition labels, as some low-sodium versions may use potassium chloride as a salt substitute, inadvertently increasing potassium. This highlights the importance of not just considering potassium but also phosphorus and sodium, particularly for individuals with renal issues. A balanced diet, rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables, remains the best strategy for maintaining proper electrolyte balance. For comprehensive information on mineral intake, consult reputable health resources like the National Institutes of Health Fact Sheet.

Cooking Methods and Potassium

When it comes to cooking with cheese, the preparation method itself doesn't typically alter the potassium content in a significant way, unlike some vegetables where boiling can reduce potassium levels. However, how you use cheese in a recipe can influence the overall mineral load of a meal. For example, a dish with a small amount of strong-flavored cheese like feta or parmesan will contribute less potassium than a casserole laden with processed cheese. Pairing low-potassium cheeses with other low-potassium ingredients is the most effective way to manage total intake in a meal.

Understanding Overall Dietary Context

It is important to remember that the effect of cheese on blood potassium levels is part of a much larger dietary picture. Foods that are considered genuinely high in potassium include potatoes, spinach, bananas, and dried fruits. A balanced diet incorporates a wide range of foods, and cheese represents only one source of potassium. For those with medical concerns, consulting a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is the best course of action for a personalized dietary plan. They can help interpret how foods like cheese fit into your specific nutritional needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, cheese is generally not considered a primary source of potassium, especially when compared to foods like bananas, potatoes, and spinach. While it contains the mineral, the amount is usually low to moderate per serving, depending on the type.

Among the lowest potassium cheese options are goat cheese, feta, parmesan, and Swiss cheese. These are often recommended for people on low-potassium diets.

Cottage cheese can have a moderately higher potassium content compared to many other cheeses. For individuals on a low-potassium diet, portion control is particularly important with cottage cheese.

Not necessarily. Many people with kidney disease can still enjoy cheese, but they should choose lower-potassium varieties and control portion sizes. Consulting with a renal dietitian is crucial for creating a personalized meal plan.

For those on a low-potassium diet, consuming cheeses with added potassium chloride as a salt substitute should be avoided. This additive can significantly increase the potassium content, potentially causing health issues for individuals with compromised kidney function.

In addition to potassium, cheese is a source of sodium and phosphorus. For individuals with kidney disease, managing the intake of these minerals is often a greater concern than potassium.

Unlike some vegetables where potassium is reduced by boiling, the potassium content of cheese is not significantly affected by standard cooking or preparation methods. The main factor is the type and portion size.