Does Burrata Cheese Have Animal Rennet?

November 10, 2025 •

3 min read

Traditionally, burrata is made using animal rennet, an enzyme sourced from the stomachs of young ruminant animals, meaning that most classic versions are not vegetarian. However, in modern cheesemaking, many producers have switched to alternative, vegetarian-friendly rennet sources. The presence of animal rennet in burrata depends entirely on the specific manufacturer and their production methods.

Quick Summary

Burrata cheese is not always vegetarian; while traditionally made with animal rennet, modern versions often use microbial or vegetable rennet. Checking the product label is crucial for confirmation.

Key Points

Not Always Vegetarian: While traditionally made with animal rennet, modern commercial burrata often uses vegetarian-friendly rennet alternatives.
Check the Label: To ensure it's vegetarian, look for phrases like "microbial rennet," "vegetable rennet," or certification labels.
Rennet's Role: Rennet is a set of enzymes that coagulates milk to form curds, which are the basis for cheese like burrata and mozzarella.
Difference from Mozzarella: The main difference is burrata's creamy, stracciatella-filled center, while mozzarella is a solid, elastic cheese.
Origin Matters: Traditional burrata from Italy's Puglia region is more likely to use animal rennet than mass-produced versions.
Modern Options: The shift towards microbial and plant-based rennet has made vegetarian burrata widely accessible.

What is Rennet and How Does it Affect Burrata?

Rennet is a complex set of enzymes used in cheesemaking to curdle milk, separating it into solid curds and liquid whey. This is the critical first step for making many cheeses, including mozzarella, which forms the outer shell of burrata. The source of this rennet determines whether the cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

Types of Rennet

Animal Rennet: This traditional form is extracted from the stomach lining of young, unweaned mammals like calves, lambs, and goats. It contains chymosin, an enzyme that efficiently coagulates milk. Many traditional Italian burrata recipes, particularly those with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, still use this type.
Microbial Rennet: This vegetarian alternative is derived from specific types of molds, fungi, or yeasts grown in a laboratory setting. It produces a proteolytic enzyme that mimics the curdling action of animal rennet and is widely used today for a variety of cheeses.
Plant-Based Rennet: Sourced from plants with coagulating properties, such as cardoons, fig leaves, or thistles. This type has a long history, with some ancient civilizations using fig juice to curdle milk. It is a viable vegetarian option but less common in commercial production compared to microbial rennet.

The Traditional vs. Modern Burrata Dilemma

The question of whether burrata contains animal rennet hinges on its production method—whether it's made traditionally or with modern innovations.

Traditionally, burrata originated in Italy's Puglia region as a way to use leftover mozzarella scraps and fresh cream. Since the outer shell is made of mozzarella, and traditional mozzarella often uses animal rennet, the classic burrata contains it by default. In fact, some Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) burrata di Andria still uses the traditional approach involving animal rennet.

However, due to rising demand from vegetarian consumers, many commercial and artisanal producers now create vegetarian-friendly burrata using microbial or plant-based rennet. These versions are widely available and often labeled to indicate their vegetarian status. This shift makes it essential to verify the ingredients of any burrata product you purchase.

How to Tell if Burrata is Vegetarian

Because the use of rennet varies by brand, it is crucial for vegetarians to check the label before buying burrata. Here’s what to look for:

Check the Ingredient List: Look for the term “vegetarian rennet,” “microbial rennet,” or “vegetable rennet.” If the label simply says “rennet” or “enzymes,” it’s best to assume it’s animal-based unless confirmed otherwise.
Look for Certifications: Many vegetarian-friendly products carry a certification label, such as the V-Label used by the Italian Vegetarian Association.
Research the Brand: If the packaging is unclear, a quick search on the brand’s website can provide specific information about their cheesemaking processes and rennet sourcing.

Burrata vs. Mozzarella: Rennet Comparison

While both burrata and mozzarella are fresh cheeses made using a similar pasta filata technique, their rennet profiles differ in the same traditional vs. modern context. Mozzarella, which forms the outer layer of burrata, also can be made with either animal or vegetarian rennet.

Comparison Table: Burrata vs. Mozzarella


Feature	Burrata	Mozzarella
Composition	Outer shell of solid mozzarella, filled with creamy stracciatella (shredded mozzarella and cream).	Solid, stretched curd throughout, with no creamy filling.
Rennet Use	Depends on the manufacturer. Traditionally animal rennet, but modern versions use vegetarian alternatives.	Depends on the manufacturer. Traditional types may use animal rennet, while commercial products often use microbial rennet.
Texture	Distinctly different textures: a firm outer layer and a soft, creamy, and buttery interior.	Uniformly elastic and chewy texture.
Origin	Created in the Puglia region of Italy, believed to have originated in the early 1900s.	Has a much longer history, dating back centuries, originating in southern Italy.
Serving	Best served at room temperature to allow the creamy filling to soften and ooze.	Can be served cold or melted in cooking.

Conclusion

In short, the answer to "does burrata cheese have animal rennet?" is: sometimes. While the traditional Italian version almost certainly does, a significant portion of the market now offers vegetarian alternatives using microbial or vegetable rennet. For vegetarians, the key is to be a vigilant consumer and always check the product labeling or manufacturer's website for confirmation. With the increasing availability of clearly labeled options, enjoying the rich, creamy delicacy of burrata is possible for those following a vegetarian diet.

An authoritative resource for understanding different rennet types and their use in cheese production can be found through resources provided by regional cheese councils like Wisconsin Cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all burrata cheese is made with animal rennet. While traditional methods use animal rennet, many modern producers now use vegetarian alternatives like microbial or vegetable rennet.

To confirm if burrata is vegetarian, check the ingredient label for "microbial rennet" or "vegetable rennet." Some products also feature a vegetarian-friendly certification logo, such as the V-Label.

Animal rennet is traditionally sourced from the stomachs of young calves, lambs, or goats, while microbial rennet is a vegetarian alternative derived from specific molds, fungi, or yeasts.

Burrata begins like mozzarella, but is filled with a mixture of cream and soft curd called stracciatella, resulting in a creamy interior. Mozzarella is a solid, un-filled cheese.

If a burrata label only lists "enzymes," it is safest for vegetarians to assume that animal rennet has been used, as manufacturers typically specify if they are using a vegetarian source.

Yes, there are vegan burrata alternatives available. These are typically made from plant-based ingredients such as cashews, recreating the creamy texture without any dairy products.

Some PGI-certified burrata, such as burrata di Andria, adheres to traditional methods that include animal rennet. However, the exact rules for PGI products can vary, so always check the label or producer details.