Brie is a high-fat cheese that’s rich in protein and calcium. It also offers significant amounts of riboflavin and vitamin B12, making it a nutrient-dense choice. However, due to its high fat content, brie contains a lot of calories. Each ounce (28 grams) of brie provides 334 calories.
During the ripening process, brie develops an appetising white mould rind. It’s typically served with bread, crackers, fruit or jam and is a great appetizer to kick off a meal or an after-dinner treat.
If you’re lactose intolerant, consuming brie in excess may cause discomfort. This is because your body lacks the enzyme, lactase, that breaks down milk-based foods. This allows the lactose to pass through your system undigested, causing gas and bloating.
Moderate brie consumption is safe, especially if you’re eating pasteurised brie. This is because the cheese undergoes a series of biochemical changes to transform the milk constituents into more easily digestible and health-benefiting substances such as fatty acids, volatile flavouring chemicals like 2-octanone and 3-octanone, and methyl ketones that have antioxidant properties. However, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding or have a compromised immune system, avoiding brie is recommended as it can carry harmful bacteria such as Listeria that can lead to foodborne illness. (2, 3, 4). Also, if you’re taking antibiotics, avoid eating brie as it may contain traces of penicillin that can interfere with your medications. (5, 6, 7, 8, 9). The rind of brie also contains penicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (RRSA). However, RRSA is not dangerous to most people.