Halloumi Cheese: A Salty Surprise for Your Heart?

Halloumi cheese, often grilled or fried, presents a potential health concern due to its high sodium content. A single ounce of halloumi contains 669 milligrams of sodium, representing 28 percent of the recommended daily maximum. This is particularly worrying as the average American already consumes approximately 3,400 milligrams of sodium daily, far exceeding the recommended 2,300 milligrams.

The excess sodium intake contributes to increased blood pressure, which significantly raises the risk of life-threatening cardiac events like heart attacks and strokes. Nearly half of all American adults currently live with high blood pressure, highlighting a widespread public health challenge. These conditions result in hundreds of thousands of deaths annually in the U.S.

However, halloumi is not entirely without merit. In moderation, a 30-gram serving contains about 330 milligrams of sodium. Furthermore, made from sheep's and goat's milk, it provides essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, zinc, and vitamin A, which contribute to immune health and vision.