Goat Feta and the Dairy Dilemma: Is goat feta considered dairy?

October 8, 2025 •

3 min read

While some believe goat cheese is not dairy, all milk from mammals—including goats—is considered a dairy product. So, is goat feta considered dairy? Yes, it is, though it differs significantly from cheese made from cow's milk, which impacts how some individuals with sensitivities or dietary restrictions can consume it.

Quick Summary

Goat feta is a dairy product sourced from mammal milk, though it contains less lactose and a different protein structure than cow's milk products, making it potentially easier to digest for some people. This article explores the nuances of goat feta's dairy classification and its nutritional profile.

Key Points

Categorically Dairy: Despite common misconceptions, goat feta is a dairy product because it is made from mammal milk, just like cheese from cows or sheep.
Higher Digestibility for Some: Goat feta contains less lactose and smaller fat molecules than cow's milk cheese, potentially making it easier to digest for individuals with mild lactose sensitivity.
Not Lactose-Free: While it has lower lactose, goat feta is not lactose-free, and people with severe intolerance may still experience symptoms.
A2 Casein: Goat's milk contains a different protein (A2 casein) than most cow's milk (A1 casein), which some people find less inflammatory.
Nutrient-Dense: Goat feta is a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, which are vital for overall health and bone strength.
Not for Allergies: Individuals with a confirmed milk protein allergy must avoid all mammal milk products, including goat feta.
Traditional vs. Modern Feta: Traditional Greek feta is made from sheep's milk (with some goat milk), while other regions may use different milks like cow's milk.

Defining Dairy and Goat Feta

To answer the question, "Is goat feta considered dairy?", it's important to understand the biological definition of dairy. Dairy is any food item derived from the milk of mammals, such as cows, sheep, or goats. Despite being an alternative for some with cow's milk sensitivities, goat feta falls squarely within the dairy category. Traditional Greek feta is made from sheep's milk, with up to 30% goat's milk blended in. However, many non-European versions of feta, especially in the United States, are made from cow's milk. Therefore, when considering a 'goat feta', you must check the label to determine the exact milk source, but regardless of whether it's goat or sheep milk, it is still a dairy product.

The Digestibility Factor

One of the main reasons for confusion about goat feta's dairy status is its digestibility compared to cow's milk products. Goat's milk contains less lactose than cow's milk, and its fat globules are smaller, which allows for easier digestion by some people. Additionally, goat milk contains primarily A2 casein, while most cow's milk contains A1 casein, a protein some individuals find inflammatory or harder to digest. It is crucial to distinguish this from a true dairy allergy, which is an immune response to the protein itself, not a matter of digestibility. Those with a confirmed dairy allergy must avoid all mammal milk products, including those from goats.

Lactose Content and Fermentation

While goat feta is not lactose-free, the amount of lactose is significantly reduced during the fermentation and aging process. Harder, more aged cheeses, whether made from goat or cow milk, generally have lower lactose levels than softer or fresher cheeses. Feta is a brined, moderately aged cheese, so its lactose content is typically quite low, though not zero. For individuals with mild to moderate lactose intolerance, a small portion of aged goat feta may be tolerated, but those with severe intolerance may still experience symptoms.

Comparing Goat Feta to Cow's Milk Cheese

Beyond digestibility, there are several nutritional and sensory differences between cheese made from goat's milk and cow's milk. The specific composition varies by brand and aging process, but here is a general comparison.


Feature	Goat Feta (typically)	Cow's Milk Cheese (e.g., standard feta)
Lactose Content	Lower	Higher
Protein Structure	Primarily A2 Casein	Primarily A1 Casein
Fat Molecules	Smaller, easier to digest	Larger, potentially harder to digest
Nutrients	Often higher in certain vitamins and minerals	Varies, but often a similar calcium source
Flavor	Tangier, sometimes described as earthy	Milder, less assertive or 'gamy'
Appearance	Bright white	Can range from white to yellowish

How Goat Feta Fits into a Healthy Diet

Including goat feta in a healthy diet can provide numerous benefits, particularly if you have difficulty digesting cow's milk products. Its rich nutritional profile includes protein, healthy fats, calcium, phosphorus, and beneficial probiotics, depending on the type.

Bone Health: Feta is a good source of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for strong bones.
Gut Health: Certain types of feta, particularly fermented ones, contain probiotics that can support digestive health and immunity.
Satiety: The unique medium-chain fatty acid profile in goat's milk can increase feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management.

For those seeking a nutritious dairy option with potentially less digestive upset, goat feta is an excellent choice. However, it is not a solution for those following a strict vegan diet or who have a true dairy allergy. For expert advice on managing dietary restrictions, consulting a doctor or registered dietitian is recommended. More information on goat cheese can be found at Healthline: Goat Cheese: Nutrition, Benefits and Recipe Ideas.

Conclusion: Is goat feta considered dairy?

In conclusion, yes, goat feta is unequivocally a dairy product, derived from the milk of mammals. However, the nuances of its composition—namely its lower lactose content, different protein structure, and smaller fat globules—distinguish it from cow's milk cheese and may offer a more digestible alternative for some people with mild sensitivities. It is a nutritious addition to many diets, but those with a severe dairy allergy should avoid it. Understanding the difference between a dairy intolerance and a true allergy is key to making the right dietary choices for your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, goat feta contains lactose, though typically in lower amounts than fresh cow's milk cheese. The fermentation and aging process used to make feta reduces the lactose content, but it does not remove it entirely.

No, goat cheese is not suitable for someone with a true dairy allergy. A dairy allergy is a reaction to milk proteins, and because goat's milk contains milk proteins, it can cause an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.

Goat cheese is often easier to digest for some people due to its smaller fat globules and a different type of casein protein (A2) compared to the A1 casein found in most cow's milk.

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest the sugar (lactose) in milk, causing symptoms like bloating and gas. A dairy allergy is an immune system reaction to the protein in milk, which can cause more severe symptoms.

Many people with mild to moderate lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts of goat feta because of its lower lactose content. However, tolerance varies widely, so it's best to start with a small serving and monitor your body's reaction.

Yes, goat feta is a good source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, and healthy fats. It can be a nutritious component of a balanced diet.

No, not all feta is made from goat's milk. Traditionally, Greek feta is made predominantly from sheep's milk with some goat's milk. Outside of Greece, some feta may be made entirely from cow's milk.