How Many Calories in Colby Cheese? Nutrition Facts & Macros

100 g of colby cheese contains 394 calories (1649 kJ). A single slice (28 g, about 1 oz) has approximately 110 calories. One cup of shredded colby (113 g) has about 445 calories. Most of the energy comes from fat (32.11 g per 100 g), followed by protein (23.76 g), with minimal carbs (2.57 g). Colby is calorie-dense, so portion awareness matters — but a single slice delivers excellent protein and calcium for relatively few calories.

Colby offers several important nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of calcium (685 mg per 100 g — 69% of the daily value), which supports bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling. It provides 23.76 g of complete protein per 100 g with all essential amino acids. Colby also contains significant phosphorus (457 mg), zinc (3.07 mg), vitamin A (264 mcg), and vitamin B12 (0.83 mcg). The selenium content (14.5 mcg) contributes to antioxidant defense. As a semi-hard cheese with low sugar (0.52 g), it is generally well-tolerated by people with mild lactose sensitivity.

Yes, colby is an excellent choice for keto. With only 2.57 g of carbs per 100 g (about 0.7 g per slice), it fits easily within strict keto limits. The high fat content (32.11 g) aligns well with ketogenic macros, and the 23.76 g of protein helps meet daily protein targets. Colby also provides essential electrolytes — sodium (604 mg) and calcium (685 mg) — which can be depleted during ketosis. Its mild flavor and soft texture make it a versatile keto snack, perfect on its own or melted into omelets and casseroles.

Colby and cheddar differ in both production and nutrition. Colby is made by washing curds in cold water, while cheddar curds are pressed and stacked (cheddared), resulting in a firmer, drier cheese. Per 100 g: colby has 394 kcal, 23.76 g protein, 32.11 g fat, and 2.57 g carbs, while cheddar has 410 kcal, 24.2 g protein, 33.8 g fat, and 2.13 g carbs. Cheddar is slightly higher in both calories and fat. Colby has a milder, creamier taste and softer texture — it does not age well and is best consumed within a few months. Cheddar can be aged for years, developing sharper, more complex flavors.

Colby has a higher moisture content than aged cheeses, so proper storage is important. Wrap opened colby tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator at 1–4 °C (34–40 °F). It keeps well for 3–4 weeks after opening. Unopened, vacuum-sealed colby lasts 2–3 months in the fridge. Unlike cheddar, colby does not improve with aging — it is best consumed fresh. If mold appears on the surface, cut away at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) around the mold and consume the rest. Colby can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture may become crumbly after thawing.