Is Cooper Cheese a Healthy Choice? Nutrition and Benefits

What is Cooper Cheese?

Cooper cheese is a style of semi-hard cow's milk cheese made in Switzerland. It gets its name from the cooperage method used during production. The cheese wheels are formed inside small barrels made from pine wood staves bound with raffia.

This uncommon cheese has a pale yellow interior and sturdy brown rind. The flavor is mellow, nutty, and slightly sweet. When young, the texture is smooth and pliable. It becomes firmer and crumbly with age as proteins break down into amino acid crystals.

Cooper cheese is sometimes called Swiss Alpine cheese or Sapsago. It's similar to other Alpine cheeses like Emmental or Gruyere but lower in fat and salt.

Nutrition Profile

One ounce (28g) of Cooper cheese contains:

• 102 calories
• 8.4g fat
• 6.3g protein
• 0g carbs
• 200mg calcium
• 148mg phosphorus
• 116mg sodium

Like most cheeses, Cooper provides a good amount of protein and important nutrients like calcium and vitamin B12. But is it a healthy choice?

Benefits of Cooper Cheese

Here are some of the top health benefits associated with consuming Cooper cheese:

High in Protein

Cooper cheese provides all 9 essential amino acids, making it an excellent source of complete protein. Just one ounce offers 25% of the recommended daily intake. Protein helps maintain and repair tissues.

Rich in Calcium

Calcium plays pivotal roles in bone health, muscle function, nerve signaling, and hormone secretion. Cooper cheese delivers 20% of the calcium you need per day in a 1-ounce portion.

Good Source of Phosphorus

This mineral works with calcium to mineralize bones and teeth. Phosphorus also assists in making new cells and proteins. You get 14% of your daily phosphorus needs from a 1-ounce serving.

Contains Conjugated Linoleic Acid

CLA is a type of heart-healthy fatty acid found in dairy from grass-fed cows. Research indicates CLA may help build muscle, control appetite, and lower inflammation.

Probiotic Potential

Some Cooper cheese is made with thermophilic cultures to improve flavor. These heat-loving bacteria can survive digestion and provide probiotic benefits.

Low Lactose Content

The culturing process converts most lactose into lactic acid, leaving only traces in the finished cheese. This makes Cooper a good option for the lactose intolerant.

Potential Downsides of Cooper Cheese

There are also a few possible disadvantages of eating Cooper cheese to be aware of:

High in Saturated Fat

Over half the fat in Cooper cheese is saturated. Diets high in saturated fat may negatively impact cholesterol levels and heart health.

Contains Cholesterol

Cooper cheese provides 27mg cholesterol per ounce. The recommended limit is 300mg daily. Too much dietary cholesterol can increase heart disease risk.

High in Sodium

There are 116mg of sodium in a 1-ounce serving. This is 5% of the recommended daily limit. People with hypertension or kidney issues should minimize sodium.

May Cause Allergic Reactions

Milk proteins like casein and whey can trigger food allergies or sensitivities in some individuals. Lactose may also cause issues for those with dairy intolerance.

How to Incorporate Cooper Cheese

Here are some healthy ways to enjoy Cooper cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet:

Pair with Fruits and Vegetables

Combine sliced Cooper cheese with carrot sticks, bell peppers, apple slices, or fresh figs. The produce provides important vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Use on Salads

Top salad greens, chickpeas, beans, nuts, and lean proteins like chicken breast with crumbled or shredded Cooper cheese. Dress with olive oil vinaigrette.

Add to Omelets

Mix shredded Cooper into omelets filled with veggies like spinach, tomatoes, and onions. Eggs provide additional protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Use in Soups

Grate Cooper over broccoli cheese soup, French onion soup, or vegetable and bean soups. The cheese adds protein, calcium, and flavor.

Make Open-Faced Sandwiches

Top whole grain toast with sliced Cooper cheese, tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Broil until melted.

Healthier Cheese Alternatives

For those limiting saturated fat, sodium, or cholesterol, these cheeses make healthier alternatives to Cooper:

Fresh Mozzarella

Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella contains less saturated fat. It has a creamy texture when fresh and melts beautifully.

Feta Cheese

Brined feta is lower in fat and calories than oil-packed varieties. A little feta goes a long way to add bold, salty flavor.

Goat Cheese

Soft goat cheeses have a rich, tangy taste. Compared to cow's milk cheese, goat cheese is lower in fat, calories, and cholesterol.

Parmesan Cheese

Hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan contain less lactose and fat. Grated parmesan adds a salty, umami kick without overdoing it.

Low-Fat Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a fantastic source of casein protein. Opt for 1% milkfat or less to slash saturated fat and calories.

Is Cooper Cheese Healthy?

Overall, moderate intake of quality Cooper cheese can fit into a balanced, healthy diet. It provides important nutrients like protein, calcium, and probiotics.

However, Cooper cheese does contain high amounts of saturated fat, sodium, and cholesterol. People at risk for heart disease or hypertension should limit intake. Monitor portion sizes and enjoy Cooper cheese occasionally rather than regularly.

For those who tolerate dairy well, organic Cooper cheese from grass-fed cows is a good choice. Pair it with plenty of fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains. As with any food, moderation and variety are key for your best health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.