Feta cheese is most often linked with Greece and the Mediterranean diet, where it’s a staple in salads, pastries and sharing platters. Known for its tangy flavour and crumbly texture, it adds richness to dishes without being too heavy. But is feta cheese healthy? Let's find out more in the sections below.
Is feta cheese good for you?
Compared to most other cheeses, feta is a healthy choice. In a balanced diet, feta cheese is good for you because it contains fewer calories per serving than nearly all other varieties, apart from cottage cheese. It’s also rich in calcium, which supports bone strength and muscle function. Feta cheese also provides a range of B vitamins that help your body release energy from food.
Feta also contains protein and beneficial fats. Since it’s made from sheep’s or goat’s milk rather than cow’s, the fatty acids are often easier to digest, which some people find gentler on their stomach.
Is feta cheese healthy for cholesterol control?
Yes, feta cheese can be a good option if you’re watching your cholesterol levels. It has lower cholesterol content than many other cheeses, such as cheddar. While it still contains saturated fat, eating it in moderate portions can help prevent your LDL cholesterol — often called “bad” cholesterol — from increasing too much over time.
If you’re looking to reduce cholesterol even further, you could choose alternatives like cottage cheese, ricotta or mozzarella. Their cholesterol levels can vary by brand, but they’re generally lower in fat and sodium than harder cheeses.
Is feta cheese healthy for weight loss?
Feta cheese can fit well into a weight loss plan, provided you enjoy it in moderation. Like all cheese, it contains calories that count towards your daily intake, but it’s lower in fat than many hard cheeses. Its strong, salty flavour also means a little goes a long way — you can use less of it without losing taste.
Adding small amounts of feta to salads, omelettes, or roasted vegetables can make dishes feel satisfying and flavourful, helping you stay on track with your goals.
Recipe ideas with feta cheese
There’s plenty of inspiration in this feta cheese recipe collection. Because feta is such a versatile ingredient, you can use it in almost any dish that calls for cheese — simply swap it in for a lighter option.
Traditional Greek recipes often feature feta as a main ingredient. For example, this vegetarian moussaka shows how well it complements vegetables like aubergine and courgette.
Feta is just as delicious uncooked, especially in salads. Try this beetroot and feta salad recipe for a bright, summery dish packed with nutrients. Or, if you’re after something warm, Greek-style stuffed tomatoes with feta cheese make an impressive starter that’s both wholesome and full of flavour.
Is feta cheese dairy free?
Traditional feta is made from sheep’s milk, goat’s milk or a mix of the two. Because of this, it isn’t dairy free, nor is it suitable for vegans. However, vegan feta alternatives are becoming more common and can be found in many home delivery meals.
Vegan feta cheese is often made using coconut milk, cashews or soy milk, with added starches from tapioca or potatoes to achieve the right texture. The calorie content is usually similar to low-fat feta, but protein levels vary depending on the base ingredient. Soy-based versions tend to have the most protein, while coconut and nut-based ones are slightly lower. Some vegan feta cheeses are also fortified with calcium, so check the label if that’s something you’re tracking.
Is Feta Cheese Healthy FAQs
Is feta the healthiest cheese?
Feta is often considered one of the healthiest cheeses available, though it depends on what you’re looking for. It’s lower in fat than most hard cheeses and provides useful nutrients like calcium, protein and vitamins. However, it does have a higher salt content, so portion size matters. Since it’s made from sheep’s or goat’s milk rather than cow’s, feta cheese can also be easier to digest for some people.
Is feta cheese ok to eat every day?
Eating feta cheese every day is fine if you enjoy it in moderation. Because it’s relatively high in salt, try to balance it with plenty of fruit, vegetables and whole grains. People with mild lactose intolerance may find feta easier to digest than cow’s milk cheeses, but it still contains some lactose, so smaller portions are best.
Why do bodybuilders eat feta?
Feta cheese is popular among bodybuilders because it’s high in protein and healthy fats, both important for muscle recovery and growth. It’s also full of flavour, making it an enjoyable way to boost protein intake without eating large portions. Its versatility means it can be added to salads, omelettes or wraps to make meals more satisfying.
What is the most unhealthy cheese?
Generally, processed cheeses are the least healthy option since they often contain added fats, preservatives and flavourings. Thin slices of processed cheese provide little nutritional value for their calorie content. Hard cheeses like Parmesan can also be high in saturated fat and salt, so they’re best enjoyed sparingly. Some cream cheeses are also rich in fat, though in small portions they can still fit within a balanced diet.
Is feta cheese bad for cholesterol?
A standard 30-gram serving of feta contains around 25 milligrams of cholesterol and roughly 5 grams of fat, most of which is saturated. That’s still less per gram than cheddar or brie. The key is moderation — large portions eaten regularly could affect cholesterol levels, but enjoyed sensibly, feta can be part of a heart-healthy diet.