Tag: Manchego

Sheep's milk contains up to 80% more calcium than cow's milk. But what does this mean for the final product, and is cheese made from sheep milk healthy? This article explores the nutritional profile and benefits of sheep milk cheese.

Archeological evidence suggests cheese-making in the Mediterranean dates back as early as 5200 BCE in Croatia. Today, a variety of iconic cheeses, such as feta and halloumi, are considered Mediterranean staples, each reflecting the unique history and traditions of its country of origin.

Sheep's milk cheese has been a dietary staple for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting cheese production from sheep's milk dating back over 4,000 years to ancient Egypt. Its long history points to its enduring value, which is rooted in a nutritional profile that offers many advantages over other common dairy products, such as improved digestibility and a richer mineral content.

For many, the idea of cheese not being vegetarian comes as a shock, but the use of animal rennet in traditional cheesemaking is surprisingly common. A significant number of classic European cheeses, especially those with protected status, are made using an enzyme derived from the stomachs of young calves, goats, or lambs.

While more than 70% of the world's cheese is made from cow's milk, a rich diversity of dairy options derived from goats, sheep, and buffalo provide delicious and unique alternatives for those exploring which cheese is not cow's milk. These cheeses offer distinct textures and flavor profiles that differ significantly from their bovine counterparts.

With some varieties containing as much as 24 grams of saturated fat per 100 grams, the question of "does sheep cheese have a lot of saturated fat?" is valid. The fat content varies significantly depending on the specific type of cheese, aging process, and moisture level.

According to a 2004 study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, replacing cow's milk fat with sheep's milk fat led to a small but significant reduction in plasma cholesterol concentration among healthy adults. So, is sheeps cheese bad for cholesterol, or is the story more nuanced than that?

According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, fermented dairy products like cheese are a key component of the health-promoting Mediterranean diet. When people ask, "What kind of cheese is Mediterranean?" they often think of a single type, but in reality, it is a diverse group of cheeses, from salty Greek Feta to Spanish Manchego, each with a unique history and flavor profile.

Approximately 68% of the world's population has some degree of lactose intolerance, leading to a rise in demand for dairy-free products. For individuals with allergies or intolerances, knowing which cheese does not contain cow's milk is essential for safe and enjoyable eating.