The Definitive Answer: Yes, It Is Dairy
To put it simply, yes, sheep milk yogurt is considered a dairy product. The term 'dairy' refers to all foods made from the milk of mammals, including cows, goats, and sheep. While it's a departure from the more common bovine milk products, sheep milk yogurt fits the definition perfectly. The confusion often arises because of its distinct properties and the fact that many people who experience sensitivity to cow's milk can consume sheep's milk products without discomfort.
What Sets Sheep Milk Yogurt Apart from Cow Milk Yogurt?
The primary reasons for the difference in digestibility and consumer experience lie in the unique nutritional composition of sheep milk. Two key factors are the protein structure and the size of the fat globules.
The Crucial Role of A2 Protein
Standard cow's milk contains different types of proteins, most notably A1 and A2 beta-casein. For some individuals, the A1 beta-casein can cause gastrointestinal distress, including bloating, pain, and gas, with symptoms often mimicking those of lactose intolerance. In contrast, sheep milk, along with human and goat milk, naturally contains only the A2 beta-casein protein. For people with a cow's milk protein sensitivity, this different protein structure can be the key to better digestive health when consuming dairy.
Smaller Fat Globules for Easier Digestion
Beyond protein, the fat structure also plays a significant role. Sheep milk has smaller fat globules compared to cow's milk, and its fat is more easily broken down and absorbed by the body. This difference contributes to its naturally creamy texture and is another reason why it's often more gentle on the stomach than cow milk yogurt.
Lactose Content and Fermentation
While sheep milk does contain lactose, the fermentation process that turns milk into yogurt significantly reduces the amount of lactose present. This happens because the live and active bacterial cultures consume the lactose and convert it into lactic acid. Therefore, for those with mild lactose intolerance, the lower residual lactose in sheep milk yogurt is often much easier to handle than the higher levels found in fluid milk.
A Nutritional and Digestibility Comparison
To highlight the differences, here is a comparison of typical nutritional values for plain sheep milk yogurt versus plain cow milk yogurt.
| Nutrient (per 100g) | Sheep Milk Yogurt | Cow Milk Yogurt |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~92 kcal | ~53 kcal |
| Protein | ~5.2 g | ~3.2 g |
| Fat | ~5.8 g | ~3.0 g |
| Calcium | ~200 mg | ~108 mg |
| Saturated Fatty Acids (g/100g fat) | ~78 g | ~74 g |
| Easier to Digest? | Often, due to smaller fat globules and A2 protein. | Can be more difficult for some people. |
Health Benefits of Choosing Sheep Milk Yogurt
Opting for sheep milk yogurt offers several potential health advantages for those who can tolerate it.
- Higher Nutrient Concentration: It contains a richer concentration of many nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc, compared to cow's milk yogurt.
- Complete Protein Source: Sheep milk is a complete protein source, providing all 10 essential amino acids your body needs but cannot produce on its own.
- Beneficial Fatty Acids: It's a good source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, as well as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Support for Gut Health: The live and active cultures in yogurt promote a healthy and balanced gut microbiome, which is essential for proper immune function and digestion.
Who Should Consider Sheep Milk Yogurt?
For many people, the decision to switch to or incorporate sheep milk yogurt into their diet is motivated by health considerations.
- Individuals with Cow's Milk Sensitivity: If you experience digestive issues from cow's milk products, but a doctor has ruled out a true dairy allergy, trying sheep milk yogurt could be beneficial due to its different protein structure.
- Those Seeking Nutrient-Dense Foods: Its higher concentration of protein, vitamins, and minerals makes it an excellent choice for a nutritionally-rich diet.
- Gourmands Seeking Flavor and Texture: The rich, creamy texture and distinctively mild, non-gamey flavor appeal to many people seeking a new culinary experience.
Potential Drawbacks and Important Considerations
While sheep milk yogurt has many upsides, it's not without its drawbacks.
- Higher Fat and Calorie Count: Due to its higher fat content, it also contains more calories per serving than many cow milk yogurts. This is a key factor to consider if you are managing your weight.
- Higher Price and Availability: Sheep milk products are generally more expensive and less widely available than cow's milk products.
- True Dairy Allergy: It is crucial to note that sheep milk yogurt is still dairy. Anyone with a true dairy allergy, particularly to casein, should avoid sheep milk and consult a doctor. The A2 protein is not a 'dairy-free' solution but rather an alternative for those with a specific protein sensitivity.
Conclusion
While sheep milk yogurt is definitely a dairy product, its unique nutritional composition offers a compelling alternative for those with sensitivities to cow's milk protein or who are simply seeking a more nutrient-dense yogurt. The presence of only the A2 beta-casein protein and smaller fat globules makes it significantly easier for many people to digest, while its rich vitamin, mineral, and healthy fat content provides robust health benefits. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best dairy options for your specific dietary needs, especially if you suspect an intolerance or allergy. Studies like the one comparing ewe and cow's milk yogurt from the National Institutes of Health provide further insight into the different compositions and effects of these products.
Note: A confirmed lactose intolerance diagnosis means avoiding all lactose-containing products, including sheep milk, unless a specific lactose-free variety is used.
Where to find the article
The article can be found at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5678502/.
