How Similar is Fresh & Processed Mozzarella Cheese? 

Fresh vs processed mozzarella cheese, wondering if choosing one over the other would really make any difference?

As a nutritionist, let me help you clarify this confusion by providing you with an analysis of the difference between mozzarella and fresh mozzarella. Scroll through and make an informed choice.

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Fresh Vs Processed Mozzarella Cheese: Analysisng Their Similarities & Differences 

The answer to as question like Which cheese is better processed or mozzarella?, can be provided if we know the difference between them. Let’s take a look

*Source: USDA; Quantity defined is 1 ounce (28g)

Now that you are aware of the differences between fresh and processed mozzarella, let’s delve deeper – 

Is There Any Difference in the Method of Preparation of Fresh Vs Processed Mozzarella?

There is no real difference in the method of preparation of fresh and processed mozzarella cheese. While traditionally mozzarella cheese is made using water buffalo milk, modern versions use cow milk for the same. 

The processed mozzarella is made by draining some moisture from the fresh mozzarella and adding preservatives to make it last longer. 

What Kind of Cheese is Fresh Vs Processed Mozzarella Cheese?

Fresh mozarella can be categorised as a kind of semi-soft cheese because of its high moisture content. 

Processed mozzarella, however, has a lower moisture content and can be categorised as a semi- hard type of cheese.

How Does the Taste & Texture of Fresh & Processed Mozzarella Vary? 

Fresh mozzarella is soft and supple and is generally available in balls dipped in brine., whey or water.  It has a milky and delicate flavour that goes very well with fresh salads and sandwiches. 

Processed mozzarella is relatively dry and brittle in comparison to its fresh variant. It is sold in the form of blocks, slices, shreds or sticks. It may also taste saltier because of lower moisture content. 

Which Cheese Needs to Be Aged – Mozzarella or Pizza?

Both fresh mozzarella and processed mozzarella are not aged. Fresh mozzarella should be eaten fresh- within hours or maxim within days. 

Processed mozzarella is packed fresh after removing moisture. Therefore, this too is a kind of fresh cheese. 

How Much of Fresh Vs Processed Mozzarella Can You Consume in A Day?

Fresh mozzarella is considered to be one of the healthiest cheeses. It is rich in nutrients that are needed by the body. However, it must be consumed in moderation. Consume up to 2 ounces of mozzarella in a day. 

Processed cheese, although similar to fresh versions in nutrients, is high in preservatives and sometimes salt. Therefore, I recommend consuming it once in a while and not more than 1-2 ounces a day. 

Do Fresh & Processed Mozzarella Have the Same Amount of Calories?

Yes, ideally fresh and processed mozzarella should have the same amount of calories. But sometimes the processed versions may have lower calorie count, which may vary from brand to brand. 

This is because while fresh mozzarella is made solely from whole milk, processed versions sometimes use a mix of whole and low fat milk. 

Fresh Vs Processed Mozzarella Cheese- Which One to Pick for a Lower Carb Content ?

Mozzarella – fresh and processed, both are low in carbs. This makes them a good option for people who are following a low-carb diet like keto. 

The carbohydrate levels of the packed or processed mozzarella may vary between brands, so make sure you check the labels before buying.

Which Cheese is Better Processed or Mozzarella for a Lower Fat Content? 

Here again there is not much difference in the fat levels of fresh and processed variations of mozzarella cheese. I have compared the mozzarellas made with whole milk in this blog. 

For processed mozzarella, there are low fat variants available in the market. So, choose according to your needs.

Which Type of Mozzarella is Higher in Protein – Fresh or Processed?

One of the most important advantages of consuming cheese is that it is high in protein content. Consuming cheese on a regular basis can help you meet your daily protein requirements. 

Fresh and processed mozzarella both have very similar protein profiles. The quality and quantity of protein is quite similar in both cases.

Which Has More Calcium – Fresh or Processed Mozzarella?

Another nutrient which all types of cheese are rich in is calcium. Calcium is needed by our bodies to maintain muscle function and to keep teeth and bones strong. 

Fresh and processed mozzarella have almost the same amount of calcium. Eating one ounce of mozzarella can fulfill about 12-15 percent of your daily calcium needs.

Lower in Sodium – Fresh or Processed Mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella is known for having one of the lowest sodium content in comparison to other varieties. This makes it a good choice for those looking for low-sodium foods. 

In comparison to this, processed mozzarella has almost double the amount of sodium. This is one of the main nutritional difference between the two types of cheese.

Do Fresh & Processed Mozzarella Have the Same Kind of Vitamins? 

Mozzarella – both fresh and processed are rich in vitamins. They contain all the vitamins that are present in milk like vitamin B Complex, along with vitamins A, D, E and K. 

Apart from the vitamins they also contain minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, etc. All these are needed by the body to carry out several functions.

What to Choose for Good Oral & Bone Health – Fresh or Packed Mozzarella Pizza Cheese?

Mozzarella is good for your overall bone and teeth health. Both fresh and packed versions are loaded with calcium which is required for stronger bones and teeth. 

Both the variants also have a decent amount of phosphorus, which helps in the absorption of calcium. 

Which is Easier of the Stomach – Fresh or Packed Mozzarella Cheese?

Fresh mozzarella and packed mozzarella both have probiotics in them. This makes them good for your tummy. Probiotics are good bacteria that aid digestion and prevent infections. 

However, since mozzarella or for that matter any type of cheese is rich in fats, and milk protein, some people with allergies may find it hard to digest. 

What Cheese is More Versatile – Mozzarella or Packed Mozzarella? 

Fresh Mozzarella cheese can be used in a number of ways. You can prepare it at home and serve it in salads, sandwiches, and recipes. It is best served cold and fresh but can also be heated. 

Processed mozzarella too can be used in a variety of dishes. It cooks better than fresh mozzarella and melts when heated. Heating it will bring out its flavour. 

Which Has a Longer Shelf Life – Fresh or Packed Mozzarella?

If you buy or make fresh mozzarella, keep it immersed in liquid until you are ready to use it. Packaged mozzarella usually includes some liquid. Keep mozzarella refrigerated; because of its high moisture content, it does not keep as long as harder cheeses. Low-moisture or processed mozzarella can be stored for a longer time. Most brands will have a shelf life of 3-4 months. 

So, in conclusion, we can state that fresh and processed mozzarella cheese are quite similar in their nutritional values. What they differ in is taste texture and sodium levels. 

Hope you found this blog helpful. If you have an suggestions or questions, feel free to reach out to me.