Randy Chandler
Athenos feta cheese is made with microbial rennet derived from the growth of pure cultures of bacteria or mold. However, two flavorings are added to this rennet: lipase liquid, derived from goats, and rennet paste, derived from kid, lamb, or calf. While some sources claim that the cheese is not vegetarian due to these additives, others maintain that it is 100% vegetarian. The discrepancy may lie in the fact that small amounts of rennet may be used for flavoring, similar to how some fast-food restaurants use beef flavoring in their french fries. Nonetheless, for strict vegetarians, the presence of animal-derived enzymes in Athenos feta cheese may be a concern.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Feta |
| Brand | Athenos |
| Ingredients | Cultured pasteurized part-skim milk, salt, enzymes, natamycin (natural mold inhibitor) |
| Contains | Milk |
| Rennet | Microbial |
| Flavorings | Lipase liquid, Rennet Paste |
| Lipase Liquid Source | Goat/Kid |
| Rennet Paste Source | Kid, Lamb, Calf |
| Vegetarian | No |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Athenos Feta Cheese is made with microbial rennet
The use of microbial rennet in cheese-making is a relatively common practice, and it is often seen as a more economical alternative to traditional rennet, which is derived from the stomachs of ruminant animals. While some people may assume that microbial rennet is always vegetarian, this is not always the case, as certain microbial rennet cheeses, like Athenos Feta, may still contain small amounts of animal-derived rennet for flavouring.
The addition of animal-derived flavourings to microbial rennet cheese is a controversial topic among vegetarians and those who wish to avoid animal products. Some people may feel deceived or upset upon learning that a product they believed to be vegetarian actually contains animal ingredients. This highlights the importance of transparent and detailed product labelling, as well as the need for comprehensive vegetarian and vegan certification standards.
The presence of animal-derived ingredients in Athenos Feta Cheese may be particularly concerning to those who follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet, as it indicates that the product is not aligned with their ethical or dietary values. For these individuals, it is essential to carefully read ingredient lists and look for trusted vegetarian or vegan certifications when purchasing food items.
It is worth noting that not all feta cheeses contain animal-derived ingredients. There are vegetarian and vegan alternatives available, such as soy-based or tofu-based feta cheeses, which can be marinated in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and spices to achieve a similar flavour and texture to traditional feta. These alternatives allow individuals with dietary restrictions or ethical concerns to still enjoy the taste and versatility of feta cheese in their meals.
Keep Feta Cheese Fresh and Green Mould-Free
You may want to see also
It is flavoured with lipase liquid, derived from goats
Athenos Feta Cheese is made with microbial rennet, derived from the growth of pure cultures of bacteria or mold. However, two flavorings are added to this rennet: Lipase liquid and Rennet Paste. Lipase liquid is derived from goats (or kids, i.e. young goats), while Rennet Paste is derived from kid, lamb, or calf.
Lipase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the breakdown of fats in the body. In cheese production, lipase is used to enhance flavour by hydrolysing milk fat into fatty acids. This process contributes to the distinct, tangy taste of feta cheese.
The use of lipase liquid derived from goats in Athenos Feta Cheese is a concern for vegetarians. While the cheese is made with microbial rennet, which is a non-animal source of enzymes, the addition of animal-derived flavourings contradicts the vegetarian principle of excluding animal products.
Some vegetarians may be unaware of the presence of animal-derived ingredients in Athenos Feta Cheese due to labelling practices. In some cases, products may not clearly disclose the use of animal-derived ingredients, assuming that these are present in small quantities or used for flavouring purposes. This lack of transparency can mislead consumers who are consciously avoiding animal products.
It is important for vegetarians to have access to accurate information about the ingredients in their food. Apps like Fig can be useful tools for scanning barcodes and identifying non-vegetarian ingredients. By providing detailed information about product ingredients, consumers can make informed choices that align with their dietary preferences and ethical values.
Feta Cheese and Whey: What's the Connection?
You may want to see also
Rennet paste, derived from kid, lamb, or calf, is also added
Athenos Feta Cheese is made with microbial rennet, derived from the growth of pure cultures of bacteria or mold. However, two flavorings are added to this rennet: Lipase liquid and Rennet Paste. While microbial rennet is suitable for vegetarians, the addition of these flavorings introduces animal products to the cheese.
Lipase liquid is derived from goats or kids, while Rennet Paste is derived from kids, lambs, or calves. These additives are used to enhance the flavor and texture of the cheese. Rennet paste, in particular, is derived from the stomachs of young ruminant animals. The paste contains a mixture of enzymes that help coagulate the milk during the cheese-making process.
The presence of Rennet Paste, derived from kid, lamb, or calf, means that Athenos Feta Cheese is not suitable for a vegetarian diet. A vegetarian diet typically excludes animal flesh, including meat, poultry, and fish. While some vegetarians may still consume dairy and eggs, they generally avoid products that contain enzymes or additives derived from animals.
The addition of Rennet Paste to Athenos Feta Cheese may be surprising to some, as the cheese is often perceived as a vegetarian-friendly option. However, it is important to scrutinize ingredient lists and manufacturing processes to make informed dietary choices. The discovery of Rennet Paste in Athenos Feta Cheese highlights the necessity of thorough research when adhering to specific dietary restrictions.
It is worth noting that the use of microbial rennet in cheese production can be influenced by economic considerations, as suggested by a comment on a forum post. Kraft, the company that owns the Athenos brand, has been mentioned as possibly using small amounts of rennet for flavoring in their cheese products. This practice is comparable to the use of beef flavoring in McDonald's French fries. Nonetheless, the presence of animal-derived enzymes in Athenos Feta Cheese contradicts the notion of it being purely vegetarian-friendly.
Feta Cheese and Wheat: What's the Connection?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Athenos Tajín Feta is a new variety
However, it is important to note that the process of converting milk into cheese involves coagulating milk through the use of enzymes, some of which are derived from animal sources. Athenos Feta Cheeses are made with microbial rennet, derived from the growth of pure cultures of bacteria or mould. While microbial rennet is suitable for vegetarians, it is worth noting that two flavourings are added to this rennet: Lipase liquid, derived from goats/kids, and Rennet Paste, derived from kid, lamb, or calf.
This information regarding the use of animal-derived enzymes in the cheese-making process may be of concern to strict vegetarians who wish to avoid all animal products. The addition of these flavourings, as noted in one source, may "defeat the purpose" of using microbial rennet for those with ethical considerations.
For those seeking a vegetarian alternative to Athenos Feta Cheese, there are options available, such as faux feta made with tofu or cashew cheese, which can provide a similar taste experience without the use of animal-derived ingredients. These alternatives cater to those who wish to adhere to a strict vegetarian diet while still enjoying the flavour and texture of feta cheese.
Feta Cheese: Is Pasteurization a Must?
You may want to see also
Athenos Feta is made with simple, fresh ingredients
The cheese is made with pasteurized part-skim milk, which is cultured to create a tangy flavour. Salt is added to enhance the flavour and enzymes are used in the cheese-making process. To prevent caking, powdered cellulose is added, and natamycin, a natural mould inhibitor, is included to ensure freshness.
Athenos Feta is crafted with attention to detail, respecting the traditional Greek method. The result is a delicious, creamy cheese with a distinctive tangy flavour. The simple ingredient list ensures a pure and authentic taste, true to the Greek feta tradition.
However, it is important to note that the process of converting milk into cheese often involves coagulating milk through the use of enzymes, some of which may be derived from animal sources. In the case of Athenos Feta, while it is primarily made with microbial rennet derived from bacterial or mould cultures, it also contains flavourings like Lipase liquid (derived from goats) and Rennet Paste (derived from kid, lamb, or calf).
These additional flavourings derived from animal sources may be a concern for vegetarians, as they are not considered vegetarian-friendly. Nonetheless, the cheese itself is crafted with a focus on simplicity and freshness, using traditional methods to achieve a distinctive flavour profile.
Athenos Feta Cheese: Halal or Haram?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
No, Athenos Feta Cheese is not suitable for a vegetarian diet as it contains enzymes derived from animal sources. The cheese contains Lipase liquid, derived from goats, and Rennet Paste, derived from kids, lambs, or calves.
Sunergia Soy Foods offers 100% vegetarian Feta Cheese. You can also make your own faux feta with extra firm, pressed tofu marinated in a sauce of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and spices.
A vegetarian diet excludes animal flesh like meat, poultry, and fish. Some vegetarians, known as lacto-ovo vegetarians, still consume dairy and eggs.
