Vegetarian diet dilemma: breaking down the controversy surrounding feta cheese

Feta cheese, a staple in many Mediterranean dishes, has sparked curiosity among vegetarians regarding its suitability. This blog post delves into the ingredients, production process, and nutritional value of feta cheese to provide a comprehensive answer to this question.

Ingredients of Feta Cheese

Traditional feta cheese is made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It does not contain any animal rennet, which is an enzyme derived from animal stomachs and commonly used in cheesemaking. Instead, feta cheese relies on natural enzymes or plant-based rennet to coagulate the milk.

Production Process

The production of feta cheese follows a specific set of steps:

• Coagulation: The milk is coagulated using enzymes or rennet, forming a curd.
• Cutting: The curd is cut into small pieces to release whey, the liquid part of milk.
• Brining: The curds are placed in a brine solution for several weeks or months, giving feta cheese its distinctive salty flavor and firm texture.

Nutritional Value

Feta cheese is a good source of:

• Protein: A 100-gram serving provides approximately 14 grams of protein.
• Calcium: Feta cheese is rich in calcium, essential for bone health.
• Vitamins: It contains vitamins A, B6, and B12, which support various bodily functions.

Vegetarian Suitability

Based on its ingredients and production process, feta cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk and coagulated with natural enzymes or plant-based rennet is suitable for vegetarians. It does not contain any animal-derived ingredients or byproducts.

Exceptions and Considerations

• Animal Rennet: Some manufacturers may use animal rennet in feta cheese production. Vegetarians should check the ingredient list carefully or look for labels indicating “vegetarian” or “plant-based rennet.”
• Cross-Contamination: Feta cheese may be produced in facilities that also handle non-vegetarian products, which could lead to cross-contamination. Vegetarians who are concerned about this should opt for feta cheese from dedicated vegetarian or vegan facilities.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Feta Cheese as Vegetarians

In conclusion, feta cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk and coagulated with natural enzymes or plant-based rennet is suitable for vegetarians. Its absence of animal rennet and the use of plant-based enzymes make it a safe and nutritious option for those following a vegetarian diet.

Answers to Your Questions

1. What is the difference between feta cheese and goat cheese?
Feta cheese is typically made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s and goat’s milk, while goat cheese is made exclusively from goat’s milk. Feta cheese has a firmer texture and a saltier flavor due to its brining process.

2. Can I find vegan feta cheese?
Yes, there are vegan feta cheese options available on the market. They are typically made from plant-based ingredients such as soy, coconut, or almonds.

3. What are some vegetarian dishes that include feta cheese?
Feta cheese can be incorporated into various vegetarian dishes, such as Greek salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, and sandwiches.