In the ever-evolving world of food trends, protein is still king. From powder-packed smoothies to protein-fortified pastas, the pursuit of gains — or just staying full — has led social media users down some interesting dietary paths. But the latest obsession? Full-on snacking on blocks of parmesan cheese.
Yes, you read that right.
Across TikTok, influencers and everyday users alike are posting videos of themselves gnawing on wedges of Parmigiano Reggiano like it’s a granola bar. One viral post shows a woman in her car unwrapping a hefty block of the aged Italian cheese, biting into it like an apple. Her caption? “I’m over protein bars. Switching to full blocks of parmesan.”
And she’s not alone. Multiple clips are floating around, racking up millions of views — and raising a few eyebrows.
To be fair, parmesan does have nutritional chops. A single ounce contains over 10 grams of protein, making it one of the highest-protein cheeses you can eat. It’s also lactose-free and packed with calcium, which gives it an added edge for health-conscious snackers.
But experts say moderation is key — and that doesn’t mean plowing through a wedge during your afternoon commute.
While it may be a protein powerhouse, parmesan is also dense in sodium and saturated fat. That means snacking on it in large quantities could do more harm than good if it becomes a daily habit.
Dietitians recommend enjoying parmesan in smaller amounts — perhaps shaved over vegetables or pasta — and pairing it with fiber-rich foods like fruit or whole grains to help balance your meal and support digestion.
There’s nothing wrong with loving parmesan — it’s a kitchen staple for a reason. But when it comes to protein trends, eating it like a candy bar probably isn’t the most balanced approach.
So sure, if you’re bored of your protein bar routine and want a savory switch-up, nibbling a few bites of high-quality cheese isn’t a nutritional crime. Just maybe leave the block-snacking for the cameras — and keep your heart health in mind while you’re at it.
