Why Is Some Cheese Not Vegetarian?
Many people are surprised to learn that not all cheese is vegetarian. The deciding factor is often an enzyme called rennet, a key ingredient in the cheesemaking process that coagulates milk, separating it into solid curds and liquid whey. Historically, and in many traditional recipes still today, rennet was sourced from the fourth stomach (abomasum) of unweaned calves, lambs, or kid goats. This animal-derived rennet makes the final cheese product unsuitable for vegetarians who avoid animal by-products that result from slaughter.
Fortunately, advances in food technology have provided several vegetarian alternatives to animal rennet. This includes microbial rennet (derived from fungi), plant-based rennet (from sources like thistles), and fermentation-produced chymosin (FPC), a product of genetic engineering. Most modern, mass-produced cheeses use these alternatives, making a vast selection of cheese vegetarian-friendly. However, some traditional European cheeses are legally required to use animal rennet for their protected designation, meaning they are never a vegetarian option.
How to Check if a Cheese Is Vegetarian
Knowing how to spot a vegetarian cheese is crucial. Since cheesemakers are not always legally required to state the type of rennet on the label, you need to know what to look for.
- Read the ingredients label: Look for phrases like “microbial rennet,” “vegetable rennet,” or “vegetarian enzymes.” If the label simply says “rennet,” “enzymes,” or “animal enzymes,” there is a high probability it is not vegetarian.
- Look for certification symbols: Many vegetarian-friendly products carry a clear “V” symbol or other vegetarian society logos. Kosher cheese is also a reliable vegetarian option, as it is produced without mixing milk and meat products.
- Research traditional cheeses: Be aware that certain classic cheeses, particularly from Europe, are never vegetarian. Parmigiano-Reggiano, Grana Padano, and Gorgonzola are well-known examples that must legally use animal rennet.
- Contact the manufacturer: When in doubt, the best course of action is to contact the company directly. Their customer service or FAQ page can often clarify the specific enzymes used in their cheese.
Vegetarian-Friendly Cheese Options
There is a wide variety of delicious cheese options available for vegetarians. Many soft cheeses naturally do not use rennet, relying instead on acid coagulation.
Commonly Vegetarian Cheeses
- Soft and Fresh Cheeses: These are often coagulated with acid instead of rennet, making them a safe bet.
- Mozzarella
- Ricotta
- Cottage Cheese
- Cream Cheese
- Paneer
- Mascarpone
- Hard and Semi-Hard Cheeses: Many of these are made with microbial rennet, but you must check the label.
- Cheddar (check label for microbial rennet)
- Swiss (check label for microbial rennet)
- Provolone (check label for microbial rennet)
- Monterey Jack (check label)
- Feta (some versions)
- Blue Cheeses: While some traditional blue cheeses like Gorgonzola are not vegetarian, brands made with microbial rennet can be found.
- Colston Bassett Stilton
- Many modern blue cheeses (check label)
Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Cheese Comparison Table
| Feature | Vegetarian Cheese | Non-Vegetarian Cheese |
|---|---|---|
| Coagulant | Microbial rennet, plant-based rennet, or acid (citric acid, vinegar) | Animal rennet derived from calf, lamb, or goat stomachs |
| Example Types | Cottage cheese, cream cheese, paneer, most modern mozzarellas, many cheddars (check label) | Parmigiano-Reggiano, Grana Padano, many traditional Gruyères, Roquefort |
| How to Identify | Labeled with “microbial rennet,” “vegetable rennet,” or a vegetarian symbol. Kosher cheese is also vegetarian. | May simply state “rennet” or “enzymes.” Requires research for traditional varieties with protected designations. |
| Availability | Widely available in supermarkets, health food stores, and cheese shops. | Found in specialty stores, and certain imports are legally required to use animal rennet. |
| Flavor Profile | Can be identical to traditionally made cheeses. Microbial rennet can sometimes introduce slightly different flavor notes, but this is minor. | No specific flavor advantage over vegetarian options. Taste is more dependent on aging and milk source. |
| Suitability | Suitable for vegetarians who consume dairy products. | Not suitable for vegetarians. |
Navigating the Dairy Aisle for Vegetarians
With so many different types of cheese available, navigating the dairy aisle can feel overwhelming. However, by focusing on a few simple strategies, you can confidently choose delicious vegetarian-friendly options.
- Start with soft cheeses: For dishes like lasagnas, stuffed shells, or dips, soft cheeses like ricotta, mascarpone, and cream cheese are almost always vegetarian due to their production process using acid. Just a quick glance at the ingredients list can confirm.
- Explore brands with vegetarian commitments: Some cheese brands are known for using microbial rennet across their product lines. Look for labels that explicitly mention their vegetarian-friendly process. For example, the Babybel cheese brand uses microbial rennet for many of its products, making it a popular snacking option.
- Consider vegan cheese: For those who prefer to avoid dairy altogether, plant-based alternatives are another option. Made from nuts (like cashews), soy, or coconut, these products are 100% animal-free and can replicate the taste and texture of many traditional cheeses. Brands like Violife, Kite Hill, and Daiya offer a wide range of vegan cheese products, from shreds to blocks.
- Seek out kosher options: If you need a quick and reliable vegetarian cheese without a detailed label, look for kosher certification symbols (like a 'K' or 'OU'). Kosher dietary laws prevent the mixing of meat and dairy products, ensuring animal rennet is not used.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the question of what cheese is vegetarian friendly comes down to its core ingredients. By understanding the role of animal rennet and its vegetarian counterparts—microbial, plant-based, and acid—you can make informed choices at the store. The key is to be a diligent label-reader, especially when purchasing harder, aged cheeses. With a bit of knowledge, you can confidently enjoy a vast and delicious world of vegetarian cheese, from fresh mozzarella to sharp, rennet-free cheddar. For further information on vegetarian cheesemaking and brands, consulting reliable food and cheese websites is always a good idea.
For more information on the distinctions between different cheese types, visit Cheese.com.
