Bushra Griffith
Goat cheese is generally more expensive than cow cheese due to a variety of factors, including production costs, supply and demand, labour, and government subsidies. The distinct flavour of goat cheese, described as buttery, earthy, and mild, yet acidic, makes it a popular choice for those seeking an alternative to cow's cheese. While goat cheese offers a unique taste experience and boasts a higher concentration of vitamins and minerals, the price differential between the two types of cheese remains a significant consideration for consumers.
Does goat cheese cost more than cow cheese?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of milk cows in the US | 9.4 million |
| Number of milk goats in the US | 420,000-450,000 |
| Percentage of milk output from goats compared to cows | 10% |
| Demand for goat milk cheese | Increasing |
| Goat breeding season | Fall |
| Goat birthing season | Spring |
| Cost of grain and hay for goat and cow milk producers | More than doubled in the past 5 years |
| Average price per hundredweight of cow milk in 2011 | $20-21 |
| Average price per hundredweight of cow milk in mid-March 2024 | $16-17 |
| Average price per hundredweight of goat milk in 2022 | $37.91 |
| Average price per hundredweight of goat milk in 2024 | $55-$60 (March-October); $70-$75 (November-February) |
| Number of goats needed to produce the same amount of milk as one cow | 9-10 |
| Lactose content in goat cheese | Lower than cow cheese |
| Taste of goat cheese | Buttery, earthy, mild, and acidic |
| Price difference between goat and cow cheese | Goat cheese is more expensive |
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What You'll Learn
Goat milk is more expensive to produce
The higher cost of goat milk can also be attributed to the space requirements for goats. For the nine goats needed to match the milk production of one cow, four times the indoor barn space and nearly twice the rotational pasture are necessary, resulting in increased expenses for land maintenance. Furthermore, while a milking cow needs about 4% of its body weight in dry feed per day, a goat only requires 1.5% to 2%. However, considering the higher number of goats needed, the total feed cost for goats is three to four times higher to produce the same quantity of milk.
Seasonal breeding patterns of goats also contribute to the elevated cost of their milk. Goats are seasonal breeders, with a heat cycle in the fall and freshening (birthing) five months later. This results in additional costs to induce out-of-season breeding and maintain a year-round milk supply, especially during periods of high market demand in the fall and winter months. Moreover, grain and hay costs for both cow and goat milk producers have more than doubled in the past five years, further increasing the feed costs for goat milk production.
Another factor influencing the higher cost of goat milk is the lack of government support and subsidies. Cow dairies receive substantial funding and marketing support from government programs and state associations, whereas goat dairies are often excluded from such initiatives. This disparity results in higher production costs for goat milk, which are passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices.
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Goat cheese is more labour-intensive
Goat cheese is generally more expensive than cow cheese, and this is due to a variety of factors, one of which is the labour required.
Labour costs for cow milk can be reduced through the use of robotic milking and computer systems, but these systems are not well-suited to goats, so human labour is still required, and this comes at a higher cost. The higher labour costs of goat cheese are also related to the fact that goat farms are relatively small, so there is less opportunity to multiply efficiencies and achieve significant cost savings.
In addition, goat cheese is often aged for longer, which further increases labour and storage costs. The production of goat cheese may also involve traditional, artisan methods that require more labour than large-scale, high-tech operations. The number of employees and the time necessary to produce the cheese are key factors in determining the final price.
The labour-intensive nature of goat cheese production is, therefore, a significant contributor to its higher cost compared to cow cheese.
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Cow cheese is more popular
Cow cheese is one of the most popular cheeses in the world, with numerous variants widely available. It has a creamy texture and a somewhat sour flavor. The popularity of cow cheese can be attributed to several factors, including its widespread availability, versatility, and cultural significance.
Firstly, cow cheese is widely available due to the large number of dairy cows in the dairy industry. In the United States alone, there were nearly 9.4 million milk cows in 2020, producing approximately 224 billion pounds of milk. This high volume of milk production ensures a steady supply of cow milk for cheese-making, making it easily accessible to consumers worldwide.
Secondly, cow cheese is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a creamy texture and a mild, sour flavor that complements both savory and sweet dishes. Cow cheese can be melted, shredded, or crumbled, making it a versatile ingredient in recipes such as pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. Its versatility has led to its widespread use in different cuisines and culinary traditions.
Additionally, cow cheese holds cultural significance in many parts of the world. In Western cultures, cow cheese is a staple ingredient in everyday meals and gourmet dishes alike. It is used in comfort foods such as grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and cheese plates. Cow cheese is also an essential component in iconic dishes from various regions, such as Italian pizza and Greek spanakopita. The cultural importance of cow cheese has contributed to its enduring popularity.
Moreover, cow cheese benefits from government support and subsidies in some countries. For example, in the United States, the Dairy Price Support Program maintains a minimum farm price for cow milk used in dairy products. This government intervention ensures a stable price for cow milk, making it more affordable for consumers and contributing to its popularity.
Lastly, cow cheese is often more affordable than goat cheese due to the lower production costs associated with cow milk. Goats require more labor, space, and feed, and they produce less milk than cows. These factors contribute to the higher cost of goat cheese, making cow cheese a more economical option for consumers.
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Goat cheese is harder to find
The disparity in availability between the two types of cheese can be attributed to the number of milk-producing animals in the dairy industry. In the United States, there were approximately 9.4 million dairy cows in 2020, compared to only about 420,000-450,000 milk goats, a significantly smaller population. This difference in population size results in a much higher supply of cow's milk, which is more readily available for cheese production.
Additionally, goats are smaller animals that produce a fraction of the milk volume compared to cows. It takes approximately 9-10 productive goats to produce the same amount of milk as a single Holstein cow. This lower productivity contributes to the limited supply of goat's milk and, consequently, the reduced availability of goat cheese.
The demand for goat cheese has been steadily increasing as consumers explore alternatives to cow's milk cheese. This growing demand, coupled with the limited supply of goat's milk, leads to higher prices for goat cheese, making it less accessible to some consumers.
Furthermore, goat cheese production often involves traditional, artisanal methods that require specialized labor and extended aging periods. These factors contribute to increased labor, storage, and transportation costs, making goat cheese a more expensive and less widely available option.
Overall, the combination of limited supply, higher demand, and increased production costs for goat cheese results in its reduced availability compared to cow's cheese.
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Goat cheese is healthier
Goat cheese is generally considered to be healthier than cow cheese. Firstly, it has a lower lactose content, making it a better option for those with lactose intolerance or sensitive stomachs. This is because goat cheese contains more beta casein, a type of milk protein that is easier to digest. In addition, the fatty acids in goat cheese are metabolized faster, leading to increased feelings of fullness and reduced hunger, which can be beneficial for weight loss.
Goat cheese also contains a range of essential nutrients, including vitamins A, B, and D, as well as minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and selenium. Calcium is important for bone health and may offer protection against cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Selenium, meanwhile, helps the body break down harmful peroxides, reducing the risk of cancer, thyroid disease, and cardiovascular issues.
Goat cheese is also a good source of protein and healthy fats, including medium-chain fatty acids, which can improve satiety and further aid in weight loss. Its unique flavour and creamy texture make it a versatile ingredient that can enhance both sweet and savoury dishes.
Furthermore, goat cheese has a potentially lower environmental impact than cow cheese. This is because goats are smaller animals that require less space and produce a smaller carbon footprint. However, it is important to note that goat cheese production may be more labour-intensive and costly due to the lower milk output of goats compared to cows.
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Frequently asked questions
Goat cheese is more expensive than cow cheese due to a variety of factors, including supply and demand, labor, space, feed cost, seasonal breeding, and lack of government support. There are far fewer milk goats than milk cows, and goats produce a lot less milk than cows. Additionally, there is high demand for goat cheese, as it is an excellent alternative for anyone suffering from lactose intolerance or stomach troubles.
The average price per hundredweight of dairy goat milk was $37.91, with a range of $25 to $57. Cow milk, on the other hand, had an average cwt. price of $20-21 in 2011 and $16-17 cwt. in March 2024. This means that goat milk can be up to three to five times more expensive than cow milk, which is reflected in the price of the cheese.
Goat cheese can be found in specialty cheese shops, supermarkets, and some grocery stores. It is also available online from retailers such as Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and Murray's.
