Which cheese brand has vitamin D? A comprehensive guide

December 27, 2025 •

4 min read

While many foods are naturally low in vitamin D, a growing number of cheese products are fortified to boost their nutritional content. Determining which cheese brand has vitamin D requires careful label checking, as fortification varies by manufacturer and type.

Quick Summary

Not specific brands, but certain cheese types like American, cottage, and processed varieties are often fortified with vitamin D. Check nutrition labels to confirm the exact content.

Key Points

Check Labels for Fortification: Don't rely on brand names. The most reliable way to find cheese with significant vitamin D is to check the Nutrition Facts panel for added vitamin D.
Fortified vs. Natural: Most cheese contains only small, naturally occurring amounts of vitamin D. Fortified versions, where vitamin D is added during processing, are the richest sources.
Consider American Cheese: Fortified American cheese and other processed cheese slices are reliable sources of vitamin D.
Look for Fortified Cottage Cheese: Some brands of cottage cheese are fortified and can be a good option for a vitamin D boost.
Balance with Other Sources: While cheese can be a contributor, foods like fatty fish, eggs, and fortified milk are generally more potent sources of vitamin D.

Understanding Vitamin D in Cheese

Unlike milk, which is often universally fortified with vitamin D in the U.S. and other regions, cheese is not. This means that the presence and amount of vitamin D in cheese can vary dramatically depending on the specific product. Generally, cheese contains small, naturally occurring amounts of vitamin D. The most reliable and potent sources, however, are fortified products where the vitamin has been added during the manufacturing process. The key to finding a significant source of vitamin D in cheese is to look for products specifically labeled as fortified, which often include processed or cottage cheese variants.

The Importance of Fortification

Fortification is the process of adding vitamins and minerals to foods that do not naturally contain them or to enhance their existing nutrient levels. This has become a standard public health strategy to combat nutrient deficiencies. For cheese, fortification with vitamin D is beneficial because it provides a reliable source of the nutrient, which is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health. Studies have shown that vitamin D fortified in cheese remains stable during storage and aging without negatively impacting flavor, making it a viable and pleasant option for consumers.

How to Spot a Vitamin D-Rich Cheese

Since no single brand consistently fortifies all of its cheese products, learning to read labels is essential.

Here's what to look for:

Read the Nutrition Facts panel: Check the 'Vitamin D' line. It will list the amount in micrograms (mcg) and as a percentage of the Daily Value (DV).
Review the ingredient list: Look for Vitamin D2 or Vitamin D3 listed as an added ingredient.
Check for claims on the packaging: The front of the package may display labels such as "fortified with vitamin D" or "rich in vitamin D," but confirming with the Nutrition Facts panel is always best.

Common Fortified and Naturally Vitamin D-Containing Cheeses

Certain types of cheese are more likely to be fortified than others, though this is not a guarantee and requires checking the label.

American Cheese: Often heavily fortified, a single slice of pasteurized American cheese can provide a significant portion of the recommended daily vitamin D intake.
Cottage Cheese: Some brands offer vitamin D-fortified cottage cheese, combining the benefit of probiotics with added nutrients.
Processed Cheeses: These products are frequently fortified to enhance their nutritional appeal, making them a common source of added vitamin D.

While natural vitamin D content in cheese is generally low, some varieties contain more than others due to the natural composition of the milk and production processes. Queso Fresco, for instance, has a notably higher natural level than many hard cheeses. Swiss cheese also provides a small, natural amount per serving.

Comparison of Cheese Vitamin D Content


Cheese Type	Source of Vitamin D	Approx. IU per 100g (varies)	Key Considerations
Fortified American	Added	259 IU	Reliable, but processed and high in fat/sodium
Fortified Cottage	Added	Variable	A healthy option when fortified, also rich in protein
Fortified Cheddar	Added	Up to 280 IU/28g serving	Check label, as not all brands fortify
Natural Queso Fresco	Natural	110 IU	Relatively high natural content, but less common in many stores
Natural Swiss	Natural	40 IU/slice or 0 IU/100g	Content can vary significantly; check nutrition facts
Natural Cheddar	Natural	24 IU	Very low natural content; fortified versions are better
Natural Mozzarella	Natural	16 IU	Lower natural content; great source of calcium and protein

Other Foods High in Vitamin D

While cheese can be a source of vitamin D, especially when fortified, it should be part of a balanced diet that includes other vitamin D-rich foods. Diversifying your intake ensures you meet your nutritional needs, as cheese is not always the most potent source.

Fatty Fish: Salmon, trout, tuna, and sardines are some of the best natural sources of vitamin D.
Fortified Milk and Cereals: Many milks (both dairy and non-dairy) and breakfast cereals are fortified and contribute significantly to vitamin D intake.
Mushrooms: Some mushrooms, especially those exposed to UV light, are an excellent non-animal source of vitamin D2.
Egg Yolks: The yolks from eggs, particularly from pasture-raised chickens, contain vitamin D.
Beef Liver: A small, natural amount of vitamin D is present in beef liver.

Conclusion: Navigating Your Dairy Aisle

In the quest for a cheese brand with vitamin D, the real answer lies not in a single brand name but in a consumer's diligence. Because fortification is the primary method for adding significant vitamin D to cheese, reading the nutrition label is non-negotiable. While American, processed, and some cottage cheeses are frequently fortified, you must confirm their status on a product-by-product basis. Natural cheeses, with a few exceptions like Queso Fresco, typically contain only trace amounts. For a reliable and substantial source, consider fortified options while also incorporating other vitamin D-rich foods into your diet. For more comprehensive information on vitamin D, consult resources from the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many brands of pasteurized American cheese are fortified with vitamin D and can be a good source. Always check the nutrition label for confirmation.

No, not all cheese brands or types contain vitamin D. The presence and amount depend on whether the cheese has been specifically fortified by the manufacturer, which varies by product.

Among naturally occurring sources, Queso Fresco has been cited as having a relatively high vitamin D content per 100g compared to other cheeses, though the overall amount is still lower than in fortified products.

Swiss cheese contains a small, natural amount of vitamin D, but it is not a significant source. Fortified cheeses or other foods offer much higher levels.

To identify a cheese with added vitamin D, check the Nutrition Facts label on the packaging. Look for 'Vitamin D' listed with a percentage of the Daily Value, and check the ingredient list for added D2 or D3.

Yes, other dairy products like milk and yogurt are commonly fortified with vitamin D. Fortified milk and some fortified yogurts can be excellent sources.

It is unlikely that cheese alone will provide sufficient vitamin D, even fortified versions. It is best to incorporate a variety of sources, including fatty fish, fortified dairy, and sun exposure, to meet your daily needs.