Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Skim Milk vs Cream Cheese: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Skim Milk has 34 calories while Cream Cheese has 342 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Skim Milk

34 kcal

More Protein

Cream Cheese

5.9g

More Fiber

Skim Milk

0g

Less Sugar

Cream Cheese

0.4g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Skim Milk
34
Cream Cheese
342
Proteinper 100g
Skim Milk
3.4g
Cream Cheese
5.9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Skim Milk
5g
Cream Cheese
4.1g
Fatper 100g
Skim Milk
0.1g
Cream Cheese
34g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSkim MilkCream CheeseDifference
Calories34kcal342kcal-308.0kcal
Protein3.4g5.9g-2.5g
Carbohydrates5g4.1g+0.9g
Fat0.1g34g-33.9g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar5g0.4g+4.6g
Sodium42mg321mg-279.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Skim Milk

Per 100g:34 calories
Per cup (150g):51 calories
Per serving (85g):29 calories

Cream Cheese

Per 100g:342 calories
Per cup (150g):513 calories
Per serving (85g):291 calories

Diet Compatibility

Skim Milk

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVegetarianLow-Sodium

Cream Cheese

KetoLow-CarbVegetarian

When to Choose Skim Milk

  • Lower in calories (34 vs 342)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (42mg vs 321mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Skim Milk nutrition →

When to Choose Cream Cheese

  • Higher in protein (5.9g vs 3.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 5g)
  • Less sugar (0.4g vs 5g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cream Cheese nutrition →

Skim Milk vs Cream Cheese: Nutritional Analysis

Cream Cheese is more calorie-dense at 342 calories per 100g compared to 34 for Skim Milk, a difference of 308 calories. On the protein front, Cream Cheese delivers more with 5.9g per 100g versus 3.4g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Skim Milk and Cream Cheese tell different nutritional stories. Skim Milk provides 5g of carbohydrates, 0.1g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Cream Cheese contains 4.1g carbs, 34g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Skim Milk contains 5g while Cream Cheese has 0.4g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Skim Milk is the lower-calorie choice at 34 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cream Cheese provides more protein (5.9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Skim Milk offers more fiber (0g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Skim Milk or Cream Cheese?

Cream Cheese has more calories with 342 kcal per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 34 kcal. That's a difference of 308 calories per 100g serving.

Is Skim Milk healthier than Cream Cheese?

Skim Milk and Cream Cheese have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Skim Milk and Cream Cheese?

Cream Cheese has more protein with 5.9g per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 3.4g. Cream Cheese provides 2.5g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Skim Milk or Cream Cheese?

For weight loss, Skim Milk is the better choice with only 34 calories per 100g compared to 342 calories in Cream Cheese. Cream Cheese also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Skim Milk or Cream Cheese have fewer carbs?

Cream Cheese has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 5g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cream Cheese is the better option with 0.9g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.