Calories in Provolone Cheese: Nutritional facts for Provolone Cheese Types

A 100g (3.5 oz) serving of provolone cheese contains 351 calories. Some brands may list slightly different values, such as Dietz & Watson Inc. Provolone cheese with 357 calories per 100g, or Bongards Creameries Provolone cheese with 333 calories per 100g. Provolone cheese with reduced fat (100g) contains 274 calories.

One kilogram (1000g, 35.27 oz) of provolone cheese contains 3510 calories.

The calorie content of one slice of provolone cheese depends on its weight and thickness. A typical deli slice of provolone cheese weighing 1 oz (28.35g) contains 100 calories. A smaller slice (17g, 0.6 oz) like Dutch Farms Provolone Cheese Slices contains 60 calories. Kraft Natural Cheese Provolone Slices (21g per slice) contain 70 calories per slice. Great Value Sliced Provolone Cheese (19g per slice) also contains 70 calories. The Counter Provolone (1 slice) contains 80 calories.

Provolone cheese provides some health benefits like supporting bone density and offering high-quality protein due to its rich concentration of calcium, phosphorus, and complete proteins derived from milk. A list of the health benefits of provolone cheese are shown below:

• Good Source of Calcium: Provolone cheese is packed with calcium, a mineral essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for preventing osteoporosis. (Heaney, R.P., 2006, "Bone health").
• Rich in High-Quality Protein: It is a good source of high-quality protein, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and the production of enzymes and hormones. (Paddon-Jones, D. & Rasmussen, B.B., 2009, "Dietary protein recommendations and the prevention of sarcopenia").
• High in Phosphorus: Provolone cheese contains a significant amount of phosphorus, which works in conjunction with calcium to support bone health and is also a key component of cell membranes and energy metabolism.
• Provides Vitamin B12: It is a good source of Vitamin B12, essential for nerve function, the formation of red blood cells, and DNA synthesis.
• Source of Other Important Nutrients: Provolone cheese also contributes other beneficial nutrients such as zinc, important for immune function and wound healing, selenium, an antioxidant, and Vitamin A.
• May Contribute to Dental Health: Cheese consumption, including provolone, can stimulate saliva flow and provides calcium and phosphorus, which may help protect tooth enamel and reduce the risk of dental caries. (Kashket, S. & Zero, D.T., 2006, "The Efficacy of an Intraoral Device to Deliver Fluoride and Other Therapeutic Agents to the Teeth").

Provolone cheese has been known to cause some unwanted effects like high saturated fat and sodium content due to its composition as a full-fat, salted cheese. A list of the downsides of provolone cheese are shown below:

• High in Saturated Fat: Provolone cheese is high in saturated fat. Diets rich in saturated fat can contribute to increased levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease. (American Heart Association, "Saturated Fat").
• Very High Sodium Content: Provolone cheese contains a substantial amount of sodium, added during the cheesemaking process for flavor, texture, and preservation. A 100g serving can contain over 800mg of sodium. High sodium intake is a major risk factor for high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. (He, F.J. & MacGregor, G.A., 2013, "Salt reduction lowers cardiovascular risk: meta-analysis of outcome trials").
• Calorie-Dense: Due to its high fat and protein content, provolone cheese is calorie-dense. Overconsumption can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential weight gain if not balanced within an overall dietary plan.
• Contains Lactose: Although an aged cheese, provolone still contains some lactose. While amounts are lower than in fresh cheeses or milk, individuals with moderate to severe lactose intolerance may still experience digestive symptoms.
• Tyramine Content (especially in aged/smoked varieties): Aged cheeses, including some types of provolone (especially Piccante or smoked), can contain tyramine. This can be a concern for individuals taking MAOI medications or those sensitive to tyramine, potentially triggering headaches or hypertensive reactions. (Shulman, K.I., et al., 2006, "Dietary restriction, tyramine, and the use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors").

Provolone cheese, when properly stored in the refrigerator, can last for 2 to 4 weeks after opening if it is a block, and 5 to 7 days for sliced provolone. Unopened vacuum-sealed packages of provolone can last much longer, often for 2 to 3 months or until the date on the package. The shelf life of provolone cheese depends on whether it is sliced or in a block, its packaging, and how it is handled. To maximize its freshness, it should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other odors. If mold appears on hard or semi-hard cheese like provolone, the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service suggests cutting off at least 1 inch around and below the mold spot for hard cheeses; however, for sliced, shredded, or crumbled provolone, if mold is present, the entire package should be discarded. (U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, "Molds On Food: Are They Dangerous?").

Provolone cheese should not be left out of the refrigerator for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C). Beyond this time, bacteria can grow rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.

Yes, provolone cheese can be good for you when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is a nutrient-dense food, offering high-quality protein, calcium, phosphorus, and Vitamin B12, which are beneficial for bone health, muscle development, and nerve function. (Gaucheron, F., 2005, "The minerals of milk"). However, it is also important to acknowledge that provolone cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium, and it is calorie-dense. Therefore, portion control is crucial to harness its benefits without contributing excessively to saturated fat or sodium intake, which can have negative cardiovascular implications if overconsumed. (Huth, P.J. & Park, K.M., 2012, "Influence of dairy product and milk fat consumption on cardiovascular disease risk: a review of the evidence").

Yes, provolone cheese can be part of a healthy diet if consumed in moderation. It provides valuable nutrients such as protein, calcium, phosphorus, and Vitamin B12, which contribute to bone strength, muscle function, and overall metabolic health. (Weaver, C.M., 2014, "Dairy and bone health"). For example, its high calcium content is beneficial for maintaining bone density. However, provolone cheese is also high in saturated fat and sodium, and it is calorie-dense. A diet high in saturated fat and sodium can increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. (Appel, L.J., et al., 2011, "Dietary approaches to prevent and treat hypertension: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association"). Therefore, while it offers nutritional benefits, it should be eaten in controlled portions as part of a diet that also includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to maintain overall health. (Willett, W.C., et al., 2019, "Food in the Anthropocene: the EAT–Lancet Commission on healthy diets from sustainable food systems").

No, provolone cheese is not considered a "heart-healthy" food when consumed in large quantities due to its high content of saturated fat and sodium. Diets high in saturated fat can raise LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels, which is a risk factor for atherosclerosis and heart disease. (Siri-Tarino, P.W., et al., 2010, "Meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies evaluating the association of saturated fat with cardiovascular disease"). Additionally, the high sodium content in provolone cheese can contribute to elevated blood pressure, another major risk factor for cardiovascular problems. (He, F.J. & MacGregor, G.A., 2013, "Salt reduction lowers cardiovascular risk: meta-analysis of outcome trials"). While provolone cheese does contain beneficial nutrients like calcium, its adverse components for heart health often outweigh these when considering it specifically for cardiovascular benefits. For a heart-healthy diet, it is generally recommended to choose lower-fat and lower-sodium cheeses and consume all cheese in moderation. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture, "Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025").

The calorie content of Provolone cheese changes primarily based on its age and fat content. Standard Provolone Dolce (mild, younger) contains 351 calories per 100g. As Provolone ages to become Provolone Piccante (sharp), it loses moisture, causing the fats and proteins to become more concentrated. This results in a slightly higher calorie count for Provolone Piccante, typically ranging from 350 to 370 calories per 100g. Smoked Provolone will have a caloric value similar to its unsmoked base (Dolce or Piccante), as the smoking process itself does not add significant calories. The most notable difference in calories comes with reduced-fat Provolone, which is specifically formulated to be lower in fat and therefore contains fewer calories, generally between 270 and 300 calories per 100g. The highest calorie Provolone types are the well-aged Piccante varieties due to their lower moisture and concentrated nutrients.

The use of provolone cheese in desserts is very uncommon. Provolone, especially Provolone Piccante, has a savory, sharp, and sometimes tangy or smoky flavor profile that is not commonly complementary to sweet dessert ingredients. Although some aged, hard cheeses can be paired with fruits or honey as part of a cheese course that bridges savory and sweet, provolone is not a standard choice for dessert applications.

No, the macronutrient composition (protein, fat, carbohydrates) of provolone cheese itself does not change when it is simply melted. Melting is a physical change, not a chemical one that alters the fundamental nutrient makeup of the cheese per gram. The same amount of provolone cheese, whether solid or melted, will contain the same grams of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, and thus the same number of calories.

However, what can sometimes happen during melting, especially with higher heat or if the cheese is cooked for a prolonged period, is that some of the fat may "oil out" or separate from the cheese. If this separated fat is drained away or not consumed with the rest of the melted cheese, then the portion of cheese actually eaten would effectively have a slightly lower fat content and thus fewer calories than the original solid piece from which the fat was lost. But the cheese itself, if all melted components are consumed, retains its original macronutrient profile. The cheese itself does not gain or lose macros simply by transitioning from a solid to a liquid state.

Provolone cheese originates from Southern Italy, with its roots in the Campania region, near Mount Vesuvius, and its name is believed to derive from the Neapolitan words "prova" or "provola," meaning a globe or ball shape. It is a "pasta filata" or stretched-curd cheese, similar in production technique to mozzarella. The cheesemaking process involves heating fresh milk curds in hot water or whey, then stretching and kneading them to achieve a smooth, elastic consistency before being molded into various shapes (pear, sausage, cone, or large cylinders) and sizes.

While mozzarella is typically consumed fresh, provolone was developed as an aged version of this style of cheese, allowing it to be preserved for longer periods and to develop a more complex and piquant flavor. There are two main types: Provolone Dolce, which is aged for a shorter period (2-3 months) and has a milder, sweeter taste, and Provolone Piccante, which is aged longer (4 months to over a year) and develops a much sharper, tangier, and more intense flavor. An iconic dish that beautifully showcases provolone's excellent melting quality and satisfying flavor is the Philly Cheesesteak. In this classic American sandwich, thinly sliced steak and (often) caramelized onions are piled into a hoagie roll and topped with melted provolone (though Cheez Whiz and American cheese are also common options). The provolone's smooth melt and savory taste meld perfectly with the steak and onions, creating a beloved regional specialty that has gained worldwide fame, highlighting how this Italian cheese became integral to an American classic.