What is the fat content of half-and-half?

• A. 1% to 3%
• B. 5% to 10%
• C. Between 10.5% and 18%
• D. 18% to 24%

Answer: (C)

Half-and-half is a dairy product that typically contains a fat content between 10.5% and 18%. This range indicates that half-and-half is a blend of equal parts whole milk and cream, which contributes to its rich and creamy texture while keeping it lighter than pure cream. This fat level allows half-and-half to be versatile in the kitchen, perfect for coffee, cooking, and baking, while providing a creamier mouthfeel compared to milk.

The choices indicating lower fat percentages, such as 1% to 3% or 5% to 10%, represent lighter dairy options like low-fat milk or light cream, which do not have the same richness and texture as half-and-half. On the other hand, the option suggesting a fat content of 18% to 24% is more characteristic of heavy cream or whipping cream, which is far richer and thicker than half-and-half. Thus, the accurate fat content of half-and-half clearly falls within the specified range of 10.5% to 18%.