With nearly 30g of protein per 100g, this French cheese contains almost as much as some meats
It's a welcome addition to gratins, croque-monsieurs, or as part of an appetizer platter. Yet, this classic French cheese isn't just appealing for its fruity flavor: it also boasts a surprisingly high protein content, comparable to that of certain meats by weight. Discover which ones!
We often think of chicken, eggs, or fish when it comes to protein. Yet, a regular on our cheese boards has nothing to be ashamed of compared to certain meat products. With approximately 28 to 30 grams of protein per 100 grams, Comté cheese clearly plays in the big leagues.
However, as Le Journal des Femmes points out, this doesn't turn the cheese into meat. Comté cheese remains high in fat, salt, and calories. So, moderation is key.
Why does the county contain so much protein?
The secret lies in its production. Comté belongs to the family of cooked pressed cheeses, which contain relatively little water. As nutritionist Nina Voit explains to the media: "The difference in nutritional density is due to the amount of water remaining in the finished product: the harder a cheese is, the less water it contains, and the more concentrated its nutrients (proteins and fats) are."
By losing water during its production and aging, cheese concentrates its components. Proteins, in particular, contribute to maintaining muscle mass and tissue regeneration. Comté is therefore a good source of protein, although Parmesan surpasses it with approximately 38g per 100g.
Almost as much as some meats, but not on the plate.
Weight for weight, the approximately 30g of protein in Comté cheese can be compared to the protein content found in some cooked meats. However, the comparison has its limits: one rarely eats 100g of cheese at once, whereas a portion of meat of that weight is common.
A 30g serving of Comté cheese provides around 8 to 9g of protein. That's a decent amount for a piece of cheese, but less than a plate containing 100g of meat. It's best to think of it as a tasty addition to your meal.
The right portion to enjoy it
To easily assess the quantity, Nina Voit suggests a visual guide: bring your index and middle fingers together to form a small rectangle. This corresponds approximately to a daily portion of 30g, to be adjusted according to individual needs and other meals.
Whether shaved into a salad, diced with raw vegetables, or grated over cooked vegetables, Comté cheese adds flavor without needing a huge amount. The nutritionist reminds us: "We are fortunate to have an endless variety of cheeses in France; there's no reason to deprive ourselves." The key is simply the right amount.
Comté cheese proves that a cheese can be both delicious and very rich in protein. It's not quite the new steak, but it's an excellent reason to enjoy this Jura treasure in a new way.
