Which Sliced Cheese Is Low in Fat for a Healthy Diet?

November 6, 2025 •

4 min read

While full-fat American cheese contains about 9 grams of fat per slice, many alternatives offer a healthier profile. Finding a sliced cheese that is low in fat is key for those looking to reduce their calorie and saturated fat intake while still enjoying their favorite sandwiches and recipes.

Quick Summary

This guide reveals the best low-fat and reduced-fat sliced cheese options available in the grocery store. It provides a detailed comparison, nutritional information, and tips for incorporating these healthier choices into a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor or meltability.

Key Points

Look for Labels: Choose sliced cheeses with terms like 'reduced-fat,' 'low-fat,' or 'part-skim' to minimize fat content.
Choose Low-Fat Swiss: Low-fat Swiss cheese contains less than 1g of saturated fat per slice, making it one of the healthiest sliced cheese options.
Opt for Part-Skim Mozzarella: This cheese is low in fat, high in protein, and melts exceptionally well, making it great for hot sandwiches and melts.
Be Mindful of Sodium: Always check labels, as some lower-fat cheeses may contain more sodium to enhance flavor.
Practice Portion Control: Using small amounts of a naturally flavorful, aged cheese like Parmesan can add a significant taste without adding much fat.

Understanding Low-Fat Cheese

Not all cheese is created equal, especially when it comes to fat content. While cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein, many varieties are high in saturated fat and calories. For those managing cholesterol, weight, or simply striving for a heart-healthy diet, opting for lower-fat versions is a smart choice. These cheeses are made with skim or part-skim milk, significantly reducing their overall fat content compared to traditional full-fat varieties. However, it's worth noting that this can sometimes affect their texture and melting properties.

What to Look for When Buying Low-Fat Sliced Cheese

Read the Label: Always check the nutrition facts and ingredient list. Look for terms like "reduced-fat," "low-fat," or "part-skim." Be mindful of sodium levels, as some low-fat versions may have higher sodium to compensate for flavor.
Consider the Source: Cheeses made from goat's milk or with skimmed cow's milk naturally have lower fat content.
Prioritize Meltability: Reduced-fat cheeses can behave differently when heated. Part-skim mozzarella and Swiss generally melt better than reduced-fat cheddars, which can sometimes become a bit rubbery.

Low-Fat Sliced Cheese Options

There are several readily available low-fat sliced cheese options at most major grocery stores. These are ideal for sandwiches, burgers, or melting into recipes.

Part-Skim Mozzarella: A staple for pizzas, part-skim mozzarella is a fantastic low-fat choice for sandwiches. It's high in protein and offers excellent meltability. An ounce of part-skim mozzarella has less than 3 grams of saturated fat.
Low-Fat Swiss Cheese: Known for its mild flavor and characteristic holes, low-fat Swiss is a reliable choice for sandwiches. A single slice has less than 1 gram of saturated fat, making it one of the healthiest sliced cheese options available.
Reduced-Fat Cheddar: Many brands offer a reduced-fat cheddar slice, which provides the familiar sharp taste with a healthier profile. While the melting texture may differ slightly from full-fat versions, it works well in both hot and cold applications.
Low-Fat American Singles: While traditional American cheese is high in fat, low-fat or fat-free American singles are widely available. These are processed but provide a low-fat option that melts perfectly for grilled cheese or cheeseburgers.

How to Incorporate Low-Fat Cheese into Your Diet

Adopting a lower-fat cheese doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. It's about being mindful of portion sizes and using cheese as a flavor enhancer rather than the main ingredient.

Upgrade Your Sandwich: Swap a regular cheddar slice for low-fat Swiss or part-skim mozzarella. The bold flavor of a mature or aged low-fat cheese means you'll need less to be satisfied.
Make Healthier Melts: For a healthier grilled cheese, use part-skim mozzarella slices, whole-wheat bread, and add fiber-rich vegetables like spinach or tomato.
Top Salads and Wraps: Thinly sliced low-fat cheese or crumbled feta can elevate a salad or wrap, adding protein and flavor without a high-fat content.
Enhance Baked Dishes: Use reduced-fat shredded or sliced cheese in casseroles, lasagna, or pasta dishes to cut down on overall fat and calories.

Comparison Table: Low-Fat Sliced Cheese Options


Cheese Type	Saturated Fat (per 1 oz)	Calories (per 1 oz)	Melting Quality	Flavor Profile
Part-Skim Mozzarella	~3g	~72	Excellent, stretchy	Mild, milky
Low-Fat Swiss	<1g	~95	Good, smooth	Mild, nutty
Reduced-Fat Cheddar	~4g	~95-100	Moderate	Sharp, tangy
Low-Fat American Singles	~1g	~60-70	Excellent, creamy	Mild, processed

The Verdict: Selecting the Best Low-Fat Sliced Cheese

The best low-fat sliced cheese depends on your personal taste and intended use. For a classic deli sandwich, low-fat Swiss is an excellent choice, delivering great flavor with the least amount of saturated fat. If you are making a melt or a grilled sandwich, part-skim mozzarella offers superior meltability and a fresh, mild taste. For those who prefer a sharper flavor, reduced-fat cheddar provides a good balance. Ultimately, the healthiest option involves both choosing a lower-fat variety and practicing mindful portion control. For more in-depth nutritional comparisons and healthy cheese tips, the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a reliable resource on nutrition choices.

Conclusion

Navigating the dairy aisle for healthier options is simple once you know what to look for. Selecting low-fat varieties of classic sliced cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella, and cheddar can significantly reduce your saturated fat intake. By choosing these options and being mindful of portion sizes, you can continue to enjoy the delicious flavor of cheese as part of a balanced, heart-healthy diet. Read labels carefully to find the best balance of fat, sodium, and flavor for your needs. The availability of diverse reduced-fat options means you never have to fully give up your favorite cheese-based meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Low-fat Swiss cheese typically contains the least amount of fat among common sliced cheeses, with less than 1 gram of saturated fat per slice.

Fat-free cheese is very low in calories and saturated fat, but it can sometimes contain more sodium or additives to improve flavor and texture. It is a good option for reducing fat, but reading the label is important.

Melting quality varies among low-fat cheeses. Part-skim mozzarella melts very well, while some reduced-fat cheddars may have a firmer, less stretchy texture when heated.

While low-fat cheese is lower in fat, a ketogenic diet is high-fat. Full-fat cheeses might be preferred on a keto diet, but low-carb cheese options are still suitable.

Yes, goat cheese is often naturally lower in fat and calories than many cheeses made from cow's milk. It also contains different fatty acids that are more easily digested by some people.

Reduced-fat cheddar has less fat and calories than regular cheddar but often has a different texture and slightly milder flavor. The nutritional benefits depend on the specific brand.

While traditional American singles are highly processed and high in fat and sodium, many low-fat or fat-free versions are now available that offer a significantly healthier nutritional profile.