Health score
0
/ 100Verdict: unhealthy
Hellas Halloumi receives an unhealthy rating due to its excessive sodium and saturated fat content. While high in protein, it is best consumed in strict moderation.
Key takeaways
- 1200mg sodium per 100g serving
- 18g saturated fat per 100g
- Contains 22g of protein
- High environmental footprint due to dairy
- Traditional blend of three milk types
Our read on this product
Hellas Halloumi contains 325 calories and 26g of fat per 100g, with a significant 18g of saturated fat. The sodium content is particularly alarming at 1200mg, which is nearly half the recommended daily limit in a single serving. While the inclusion of dried mint provides aromatic value, it does not mitigate the heavy impact of the milk-based fat profile. The product earns a low health score of 40 and a planet score of 35, reflecting both its nutritional limitations and its high environmental footprint linked to intensive dairy farming.
Best for
This product is suitable for individuals with no specific dietary restrictions who enjoy an occasional high-protein, indulgent grilled cheese topping.
Approach with care
Individuals with high blood pressure, cardiovascular concerns, or those requiring a low-sodium and low-saturated-fat diet should avoid this product.
Ingredient breakdown
Good ingredients
Neutral ingredients
Ingredients to watch
Kuhmilch, Ziegenmilch, Schafmilch
A blend of cow's, goat's, and sheep's milk used to create the curd base for Halloumi. These provide protein and calcium but are also high in saturated fats. The combination is traditional to Cypriot cheese-making.
Salz
Used as a preservative and to provide the characteristic salty taste of Halloumi. Excess sodium intake is linked to elevated blood pressure and cardiovascular strain.
Lab
An enzyme used to coagulate the milk into solid curds. It is a necessary processing aid in traditional cheese production.
Minze
Dried mint leaves often folded into the cheese during production for flavor. Provides subtle aromatic properties with no significant health risks.
Nutrition facts
Values shown per 100g
Energy
325 kcal
Protein
22g
Carbs
2g
Fat
26g
Fiber
0g
Sugar
2g
Sodium
1200mg
Saturated fat
18g
Fiber
0g
How it scores against your goal
Mood Effect
The high sodium and heavy fat content can lead to sluggishness rather than sustained energy, potentially affecting mood negatively.
Muscle Gain
While it provides 22g of protein, the excessive saturated fat makes it an inefficient protein source compared to lean alternatives.
Weight Loss
High calorie and fat density make it difficult to incorporate into a calorie-controlled weight loss plan.
Flu Recovery
Lacks the essential vitamins and antioxidants needed for immune support and should be avoided when feeling unwell.
Fever Recovery
This cheese is too heavy and high in sodium to support recovery, requiring too much digestive effort during illness.
Pcos Management
High saturated fat intake is often linked to systemic inflammation, which can exacerbate PCOS symptoms in some individuals.
Diabetes Management
The low carbohydrate count is favorable, but the high fat and sodium levels are not ideal for long-term metabolic health.
Myth busters
It is an excellent source of protein for muscle growth
With 22g of protein per 100g, it supports muscle maintenance, though the fat content is high.
It is low in sodium because it is a fresh cheese
It contains 1200mg of sodium per 100g, which is a very high concentration for a single food item.
Contains only one type of milk
It is actually a traditional blend of three: cow's, goat's, and sheep's milk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hellas Halloumi considered a healthy food choice?
+
Hellas Halloumi is not considered a healthy choice due to its high levels of saturated fat and sodium, which can negatively impact cardiovascular health when consumed frequently.
What is the primary nutritional concern with Hellas Halloumi?
+
Hellas Halloumi presents a primary concern regarding its sodium content, which reaches 1200mg per 100g, potentially contributing to elevated blood pressure levels.
Which key ingredient provides the unique flavor in Hellas Halloumi?
+
Hellas Halloumi features dried mint leaves as a key ingredient, which provides its signature aromatic quality and subtle flavor profile.
Does Hellas Halloumi fit into a weight loss diet?
+
Hellas Halloumi is generally not recommended for weight loss diets because it is highly calorie-dense, providing 325 kcal per 100g with very high fat content.
What is a better alternative to Hellas Halloumi for grilling?
+
Hellas Halloumi can be substituted with extra-firm tofu marinated in herbs if you are looking for a lower-fat, lower-sodium, and more sustainable plant-based grilling alternative.