FoodScore
0/ 100
Gooddairy· 100 g

Mozzarella Part Skim

Mozzarella Part Skim earns a good FoodScore of 66/100, primarily due to its high protein content and significant micronutrient contributions, despite notable saturated fat and sodium levels.

  • Provides 24.26g of protein per 100g, contributing significantly to daily needs.
  • Excellent source of calcium, delivering 60% of the Daily Value in a 100g serving.
  • Contains 619mg of sodium per 100g, which is a moderate amount to consider.
  • Minimally processed, classified as NOVA 1, indicating a whole food.
  • Offers 34% of the Daily Value for Vitamin B12 per 100g.
  • Scores +11 points above the dairy category average (55/100 across 104 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
24.26g
49% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
619mg
27% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (24.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Riboflavin)+12
Whole food (NOVA 1)+10
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (10.1g)-14
Sodium (619mg)-2

Why it scores 66

Mozzarella Part Skim achieves a FoodScore of 66 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects a balance of strong nutritional positives and some areas for moderation. A significant bonus comes from its high protein content, providing 24.26g per 100g, which is a substantial contribution to daily protein requirements. It also receives a notable bonus for its rich micronutrient profile, particularly calcium (782mg, 60% DV), zinc (2.76mg, 25% DV), and Vitamin B12 (34% DV). As a minimally processed food (NOVA class 1), it earns additional points, aligning with dietary recommendations to prioritize whole foods. However, the score is tempered by penalties for its saturated fat content, at 10.11g per 100g, which is a considerable amount. Additionally, its sodium level of 619mg per 100g incurs a penalty, suggesting it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those monitoring sodium intake. To achieve a higher score, a version with lower saturated fat and reduced sodium would be beneficial.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in mozzarella part skim actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Bone Health

Mozzarella Part Skim is an excellent source of nutrients crucial for maintaining strong bones. A 100g serving provides 782mg of calcium, which is 60% of the Daily Value, making it a significant contributor to your daily calcium intake. Calcium is the primary mineral component of bones and teeth, and adequate intake is essential throughout life to prevent bone density loss. This cheese also contains magnesium (23mg) and phosphorus, both of which work in conjunction with calcium to support skeletal structure and integrity. Including dairy products like mozzarella in your diet can help meet the recommended daily intake for these vital bone-building minerals, especially when paired with other calcium-rich foods.

Aids Muscle Maintenance and Growth

This cheese is a high-quality protein source, offering 24.26g of protein per 100g. Protein is fundamental for the repair and growth of muscle tissue, making mozzarella a beneficial food for individuals looking to maintain or increase muscle mass. The protein in dairy products is considered complete, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids necessary for the body's functions. Furthermore, mozzarella provides 34% of the Daily Value for Vitamin B12, a nutrient vital for energy metabolism and the proper functioning of nerve cells, which indirectly supports muscle function. Regular consumption of protein-rich foods like mozzarella can contribute to satiety and help meet daily protein targets, especially after physical activity.

Contributes to Immune Function

Mozzarella Part Skim contains several micronutrients that play roles in supporting a healthy immune system. Notably, a 100g serving provides 2.76mg of zinc, which accounts for 25% of the Daily Value. Zinc is an essential mineral involved in numerous cellular processes, including immune cell development and function. Adequate zinc intake is critical for the body's ability to mount an effective immune response. Additionally, the cheese offers 14% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining the integrity of mucosal barriers, which are the body's first line of defense against pathogens. Including foods rich in these nutrients can help support overall immune health.

Supports Healthy Blood Pressure

While mozzarella contains sodium, it also provides potassium and magnesium, minerals that are important for blood pressure regulation. A 100g serving offers 84mg of potassium and 23mg of magnesium. Dietary guidelines emphasize the importance of balancing sodium intake with adequate potassium to help maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Potassium helps to counteract the effects of sodium, while magnesium contributes to the relaxation of blood vessel walls. While the sodium content of mozzarella should be considered, its contribution of these beneficial minerals means it can be part of a balanced diet that supports cardiovascular health, especially when consumed in moderation and alongside other potassium-rich foods.

How to eat it

Mozzarella Part Skim is a versatile dairy product commonly enjoyed in American diets, known for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties. It's a staple in Italian-American cuisine, often found on pizzas, in lasagna, and baked pasta dishes. Its firm yet pliable texture makes it suitable for slicing, shredding, or cubing. A typical serving size is around 28-56 grams (1-2 ounces), which can be easily incorporated into various meals for added protein and calcium.

For a quick snack, pair sliced mozzarella with fresh tomatoes and basil for a simple Caprese salad.
Incorporate shredded mozzarella into egg dishes like omelets or frittatas for a protein boost.
To reduce overall sodium intake, use mozzarella as a topping on homemade pizzas with low-sodium sauce and plenty of vegetables.
Store mozzarella in its original packaging or an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Things to keep in mind

For most healthy adults, Mozzarella Part Skim is safe to consume in moderate amounts. Individuals with a dairy allergy should avoid mozzarella, as it contains milk proteins that can trigger allergic reactions. Those with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas, due to the lactose content in cheese, though hard cheeses generally contain less lactose than milk. The sodium content (619mg per 100g) should be noted by individuals on sodium-restricted diets or those managing high blood pressure, as excessive intake can contribute to health concerns. No other widely documented cautions or significant drug interactions are associated with mozzarella at normal serving sizes.

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Reader questions
Is Mozzarella Part Skim healthy?
Yes, Mozzarella Part Skim can be a healthy part of a balanced diet. It scores 66/100 on FoodScore, indicating a good nutritional profile. It's an excellent source of protein, calcium, and Vitamin B12, which are essential for bone health, muscle maintenance, and energy metabolism. However, it's also notable for its saturated fat and sodium content, so moderation is key.
Is Mozzarella Part Skim good for weight loss?
Mozzarella Part Skim can be included in a weight loss diet due to its high protein content (24.26g per 100g), which promotes satiety and helps preserve muscle mass. Its lower fat content compared to whole milk mozzarella also makes it a lighter option. However, it still contains calories (254 per 100g) and some saturated fat, so portion control is important to manage calorie intake effectively.
Is Mozzarella Part Skim processed?
Mozzarella Part Skim is considered a minimally processed food, classified as NOVA 1. This means it has undergone minimal processing, such as pasteurization and fermentation, without the addition of industrial ingredients like artificial colors, flavors, or excessive preservatives. It retains most of its natural nutritional properties.
How does part-skim mozzarella compare to whole milk mozzarella nutritionally?
Part-skim mozzarella is made from partially skimmed milk, resulting in a lower total fat and saturated fat content compared to whole milk mozzarella. This makes it a lighter option for those monitoring fat intake. Both varieties offer similar amounts of protein and calcium, but part-skim typically has fewer calories per serving.
What are some good ways to use Mozzarella Part Skim in cooking?
Mozzarella Part Skim is incredibly versatile. It's ideal for melting on pizzas, in lasagna, or baked ziti due to its excellent melting properties. You can also slice it for Caprese salads, shred it into omelets, or cube it for skewers. Its mild flavor pairs well with a variety of ingredients.
Does Mozzarella Part Skim contain lactose?
Yes, Mozzarella Part Skim does contain lactose, as it is a dairy product. However, the fermentation process involved in cheesemaking reduces the lactose content compared to milk. Individuals with mild lactose intolerance may tolerate it better than milk, but those with severe intolerance should consume it cautiously or choose lactose-free alternatives.
Can I eat Mozzarella Part Skim if I have high blood pressure?
If you have high blood pressure, you can include Mozzarella Part Skim in your diet, but moderation is crucial due to its sodium content (619mg per 100g). Focus on smaller serving sizes and balance it with other low-sodium foods rich in potassium, such as fruits and vegetables. Opting for low-sodium versions of cheese when available can also be beneficial.

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Data & references

Sources: USDA FoodData Central (SR Legacy, fdcId 170847)Updated 2026-04-20