Tag: Lactose in cheese

Most natural, hard cheeses contain minimal carbohydrates and very little to no sugar, a fact that makes them popular in low-carb diets. This is because the lactose, or natural milk sugar, is mostly broken down during the cheesemaking and aging process.

Cheesemaking involves the conversion of lactose, the natural sugar in milk, into lactic acid, which significantly reduces sugar content. This process is why the question 'does cheese contain sugar?' has a more complex answer than many assume.

Contrary to some assumptions, most natural cheeses, including many Mexican varieties, contain very low or negligible amounts of sugar. So, does Mexican cheese have sugar in it? The answer is complex and depends on the type, but generally, the sugar content is minimal, especially in aged cheeses.

Most aged, hard cheeses are naturally very low in carbohydrates due to the cheese-making process that removes lactose. However, some fresh and processed cheese varieties can contain significantly higher carb levels. This guide explores which cheese is high in carbs, examining how processing and aging affect the final nutritional profile.

According to the nutritional information on most packages, a one-ounce serving of pepper jack cheese contains 0 grams of sugar. This fact helps clarify a common question for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake, as the spicy, creamy dairy product contains virtually no sugar.

While most hard cheeses are naturally low in carbohydrates, some varieties contain surprisingly high amounts, with Norwegian-style gjetost packing an impressive 42.65 grams per 100 grams. Knowing what cheese has the most carbs is crucial for those on low-carb or ketogenic diets, as the carb count can vary dramatically between different types.