What Cheese Has No Hormones? A Guide to Hormone-Free Dairy

According to a Nielsen report cited by Dairy Foods, more than half of all consumers actively try to avoid added hormones in their food. This growing demand has made finding out what cheese has no hormones a common query for health-conscious shoppers looking for natural dairy options.

Quick Summary

This guide explains the difference between natural and artificial hormones in cheese, identifies common varieties and brands of hormone-free cheese, and provides tips for finding truly hormone-free products in the grocery store.

Key Points

• rbST is a Synthetic Hormone: The primary hormone to avoid is recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) or rBGH, a lab-made hormone used to increase milk production in cows.

• Organic is Always Hormone-Free: The USDA Organic seal guarantees the milk used to make the cheese is free of synthetic growth hormones.

• Look for "rbST-free" Labels: Many conventional cheese brands now label their products specifically as "rbST-free," a voluntary move in response to consumer demand.

• Vegan Cheese is Naturally Hormone-Free: Plant-based cheeses made from nuts or soy are an excellent option for those wanting a completely dairy-free, and therefore hormone-free, product.

• Check Brand Websites for Details: If a label is unclear, visiting the brand's website can provide additional information on their sourcing and use of hormones.

Understanding Hormones in Dairy

When people ask what cheese has no hormones, they are typically referring to dairy products made from milk without artificial growth hormones. The primary synthetic hormone in question is recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST), also known as recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH). This artificial hormone was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1993 to increase milk production in cows.

While the FDA has maintained that milk from rbST-treated cows is safe for human consumption, a significant portion of consumers and some advocacy groups remain concerned. This has led many dairy producers to offer hormone-free alternatives, using milk from untreated cows. It is important to note that all dairy milk, whether organic or conventional, contains naturally occurring hormones. The "hormone-free" label refers specifically to the absence of these added synthetic hormones.

How to Identify Hormone-Free Cheese

Navigating the dairy aisle can be confusing, but a few key indicators can help you choose hormone-free cheese:

• USDA Organic Seal: The USDA's organic certification prohibits the use of rbST, so any cheese with this seal is guaranteed to be made from milk without artificial growth hormones. This is one of the most reliable labels to look for.
• rbST-Free Label: Many conventional cheese brands, including major companies like Kraft, have voluntarily transitioned their natural cheese lines to be made from milk without the artificial growth hormone rbST. Look for prominent labeling stating "rbST-free," "rBGH-free," or "no artificial hormones."
• Vegan Cheese: For a completely hormone-free option, plant-based cheeses are an excellent choice. Made from nuts, soy, or other plant sources, these alternatives contain no dairy and therefore no bovine hormones at all.
• Sourcing Information: Some smaller, artisan cheesemakers, like Simply Grassfed, emphasize their sourcing practices, highlighting milk from pasture-raised cows that are free of hormones and antibiotics. Checking the producer's website can provide additional assurance.

Popular Cheeses and Brands Without Added Hormones

Many common types of cheese are available in hormone-free versions. The availability often depends on the specific brand and production method. Here are some examples of cheese types and brands known for offering hormone-free products:

• Cheddar: Popular options like Organic Valley's and Cedar Grove's cheddar are reliably rbST-free and organic. Kraft Natural Cheese has also updated its product lines to be rbST-free.
• Mozzarella: Many organic and natural cheese brands offer mozzarella without added hormones. Simply Grassfed offers an organic, raw mozzarella, and BelGioioso also clearly states that all its cheeses are rbST-free.
• Cottage Cheese: Brands like Nancy's Organic Cottage Cheese pledge to never use the artificial growth hormone rbST.
• Feta and Goat Cheese: These varieties are often available from smaller, artisanal producers that prioritize hormone-free and organic practices, such as Sierra Nevada Cheese Company.
• Vegan Alternatives: For those seeking dairy-free options, Miyoko's offers a cashew-based mozzarella and Kite Hill produces an almond milk cream cheese.

Comparing Hormone-Free and Conventional Cheeses

Feature	Hormone-Free (Organic/rbST-Free) Cheese	Conventional Cheese
Milk Source	From cows not treated with artificial growth hormones (rbST/rBGH).	May be from cows treated with artificial growth hormones to increase milk yield.
Certification	Often certified USDA Organic, which prohibits rbST use, or clearly labeled "rbST-free".	Lacks specific certification or labeling regarding rbST.
Nutritional Profile	Some studies suggest organic milk has higher levels of omega-3s, vitamin E, and antioxidants due to cow diet.	Standard nutritional profile, can vary based on cow feed and processing.
Animal Welfare	Organic standards typically require humane animal treatment and pasture access for cows.	Animal welfare practices vary widely by farm; may be from large-scale factory farms.
Cost	Generally more expensive due to different farming practices and certification processes.	Typically less expensive and widely available in most stores.
Availability	Widely available, but may require checking labels carefully or seeking out specific organic brands.	Ubiquitous in most grocery store dairy aisles.

Navigating the Dairy Aisle

1. Read the Labels: Always check the packaging for specific claims like "rbST-free," "rBGH-free," or the USDA Organic seal. Don't assume that a cheese from a well-known brand is hormone-free unless it's explicitly stated.
2. Look for Certification: The most straightforward method is to look for the green and white USDA Organic seal. This guarantees the milk used is from cows not treated with synthetic hormones.
3. Explore Local Options: Many local dairies and farmers' markets offer artisanal cheeses from small farms that often prioritize natural, hormone-free practices. Talking directly to the cheesemaker is the best way to verify their methods.
4. Consider Plant-Based Alternatives: For those with dairy sensitivities or ethical concerns, vegan cheeses offer a genuinely hormone-free option derived from ingredients like cashews, almonds, or soy.
5. Check for Other Ingredients: While checking for hormones, also look at other ingredients. Organic cheese production often avoids artificial colorings, preservatives, and uses microbial (vegetarian) rennet.

Conclusion

For consumers asking what cheese has no hormones, the answer is that while no dairy cheese is free of all hormones due to the biological nature of milk, it is easy to find cheese made without added synthetic growth hormones like rbST. Choosing organic cheese or products explicitly labeled rbST-free are the most reliable ways to avoid these additives. A quick check of the label or a visit to a local cheesemonger can empower you to make informed decisions that align with your dietary preferences and health goals. With many brands now catering to this demand, finding delicious, hormone-free cheese is easier than ever.

Center for Food Safety: About rbGH

Additional Resources

• USDA Agricultural Marketing Service: For information on organic standards.
• Brand Websites: Check the websites of your favorite cheese brands for their sourcing policies and statements on rbST use.
• Health and Wellness Sites: Trusted sites provide further context on the use of hormones in dairy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cheese with no hormones safer to eat?

While the FDA has ruled that rbST is safe, many consumers prefer to avoid it. Choosing hormone-free cheese eliminates synthetic growth hormones, which is a personal preference for some individuals.

Do organic and rbST-free mean the same thing for cheese?

Not exactly. All USDA organic certified dairy is inherently rbST-free, but a cheese labeled only as "rbST-free" may not meet other organic standards, such as being free of pesticides or antibiotics.

Which major brands offer hormone-free cheese?

Several major brands, including Kraft (for its natural cheese lines), BelGioioso, and organic specialists like Organic Valley, offer rbST-free cheese products. Look for specific labeling on the package.

Are there any vegan cheese options that are hormone-free?

Yes, all vegan cheeses are completely free of animal hormones, as they are not made from dairy milk. Brands like Miyoko's and Kite Hill offer a variety of plant-based cheese products.

Does cheese from goat or sheep milk contain hormones?

Goat and sheep milk naturally contain different hormones than cow's milk. Just like cow's milk, you should look for organic or specifically labeled products to ensure no synthetic hormones were used on the animals.

Is all cheese in the United States regulated for hormone content?

The FDA regulates the use of rbST, but does not mandate labeling for its use. Only organic certified products and those with a voluntary "rbST-free" label can guarantee no synthetic hormones.

What is the difference between natural hormones and artificial hormones in cheese?

Natural hormones exist in all dairy milk as part of a cow's biology. Artificial hormones like rbST are synthetic versions injected into cows to boost milk production.