Frederic Melton
Blue cheese is a flavoursome, fermented cheese with distinctive blue veins. It is made by mixing Penicillium roqueforti mould spores with milk, which creates its unique colour and taste. Despite containing mould, blue cheese is non-toxic and safe for human consumption. In fact, blue cheese has a surprising variety of health benefits. It is rich in calcium, vitamins and minerals, and has been linked to improved heart health, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, and healthier bone density. However, blue cheese should be consumed in moderation due to its high levels of salt, saturated fat, calories and sodium.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nutrients | High in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamins, and minerals |
| Health Benefits | May reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, improve memory, aid in managing arthritis, help with lactose intolerance, and improve gut health |
| Production | Made by mixing Penicillium roqueforti mold spores with milk |
| Taste | Bold, tangy, sour, pungent, salty |
| Texture | Moist |
| Consumption | Should be consumed in moderation due to high levels of salt, saturated fat, calories, and sodium |
| Allergies | Generally safe for people with penicillin or mold allergies |
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What You'll Learn
Blue vein cheese is rich in calcium, vitamins and minerals
Blue vein cheese is a flavoursome fermented cheese with a distinctive appearance and taste. It is rich in calcium, vitamins and minerals, offering a variety of health benefits.
Firstly, blue vein cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for healthy teeth and bones. A once-ounce serving of blue vein cheese contains 150 mg of calcium, contributing to the recommended daily intake of 1000 mg for most adults. This high calcium content supports bone health, helping to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and protecting against arthritis by lowering joint inflammation and easing pain.
Secondly, blue vein cheese contains vitamins and minerals that promote immune, cardiovascular and cognitive functioning. It is a source of bioactive peptides, essential amino acids and phosphorus, which is crucial for strong teeth and bones. The presence of the compound spermidine in blue vein cheese may also offer health benefits, as studies have found that it is associated with improved heart health, reduced blood pressure and increased longevity.
In addition to its calcium, vitamin and mineral content, blue vein cheese is a good source of protein and provides other health benefits. It is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health and overall well-being. Blue vein cheese also has anti-inflammatory properties and may help manage levels of visceral fat, contributing to weight management.
However, it is important to consume blue vein cheese in moderation due to its high levels of salt, saturated fat, calories and sodium. Spoiled blue vein cheese can produce harmful substances called mycotoxins, so it should be stored safely and consumed within a few weeks of opening.
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It contains a compound called spermidine, which may delay ageing
Blue cheese contains a compound called spermidine, which has been linked to potential anti-ageing properties. Spermidine is thought to have a positive effect on cardiac muscle cells and other parts of the cardiovascular system. This may be why fewer people in France die of cardiovascular disease, despite consuming more saturated fat on average—a phenomenon known as the "French paradox".
A 2016 study found that feeding spermidine to mice and rats improved heart health and increased longevity. The same study found that humans who consumed high levels of dietary spermidine had reduced blood pressure and a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease. The authors suggested that spermidine may decrease age-related arterial stiffness and reverse changes in the heart. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
In addition to its potential anti-ageing effects, spermidine in blue cheese may also provide other health benefits. Blue cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It also contains vitamins and minerals that support immune, cardiovascular, and cognitive functioning. Phosphorus, for example, is abundant in blue cheese and is important for strong teeth and bones.
While blue cheese offers potential health benefits due to the presence of spermidine and other nutrients, it should still be consumed in moderation. Blue cheese is high in salt, saturated fat, and calories, which can have negative health impacts if consumed in excess.
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It's a good source of protein
Blue cheese is a good source of protein. It is a flavoursome fermented cheese featuring characteristic blue veins or marbling. The process of creating blue cheese involves mixing Penicillium roqueforti mould cultures with milk to begin the fermentation process.
Blue cheese is a great source of protein for people who are lactose intolerant and cannot consume milk. It includes milk protein and is, therefore, a good option for those who need to obtain the necessary protein by eating cheese.
Blue cheese is also rich in calcium, which is essential for healthy teeth and bones. A once-ounce serving of blue cheese contains 150 mg of calcium. Most adults should consume, at a minimum, 1,000 mg per day. Regular consumption of calcium-rich foods such as blue cheese protects bone health and helps reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.
In addition to being a good source of protein and calcium, blue cheese also contains other nutrients that may help promote immune, cardiovascular, and cognitive functioning. Blue cheese contains a compound known as spermidine that may delay ageing and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. A 2016 study found that humans who consumed high levels of dietary spermidine had reduced blood pressure and a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease.
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It's safe for people with penicillin allergies to eat
Blue cheese is a flavoursome, fermented cheese with characteristic blue veins or marbling. It is made by mixing Penicillium roqueforti mould spores with milk to begin the fermentation process. After the cheese forms into a solid shape, the cheesemaker pierces it with stainless steel needles to create pathways for air to flow. These pathways are where the distinctive blue, blue-grey, or blue-green veins of mould will later develop.
Despite the use of mould in the production of blue cheese, it is generally safe for people with penicillin allergies to consume. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, the Penicillium cultures that create blue cheese do not produce penicillin. Therefore, people with penicillin allergies can eat blue cheese as long as it is not spoiled. However, it is important to note that individual sensitivities can vary, and some people with penicillin allergies may still react to the mould in blue cheese.
Additionally, individuals with mould allergies can safely eat blue cheese. This is because the digestive process destroys any active mould spores, and mould allergies typically flare up due to mould inhalation rather than ingestion. Nevertheless, it is crucial to practise caution and consult a medical professional or a doctor before consuming blue cheese if you have a penicillin or mould allergy.
While blue cheese offers health benefits, such as high calcium content and potential cardiovascular benefits, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high levels of saturated fat, calories, and sodium. Spoiled blue cheese can produce harmful substances called mycotoxins, so it is important to store and consume blue cheese safely before it spoils.
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It's great for gut health
Blue cheese is a great source of probiotics, which can improve gut health and overall well-being. The distinctive blue veins in blue cheese are produced by the beneficial bacteria culture, Penicillium roqueforti. This bacteria culture is extremely resilient and can grow in very low-oxygen environments, allowing it to survive digestion and establish itself in the gut as a beneficial probiotic.
The process of creating blue cheese involves mixing Penicillium roqueforti mold cultures with milk to begin the fermentation process. This mixture of mold and milk separates the milk proteins and fat, making blue cheese easier to digest than other types of cheese. Additionally, these proteins aid in digesting many food sources commonly consumed to improve digestion.
Blue cheese is also a nutrient-dense food, containing various vitamins and minerals that contribute to a robust immune system. For example, blue cheese contains vitamins A and D and minerals like potassium, sodium, and zinc, which are vital for gut health.
The proteins in blue cheese, specifically Roquefort cheese, also help lower cholesterol levels and prevent artery inflammation and blood clotting in veins or arteries. This reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and improves overall gut health.
While blue cheese is a healthy option, it's important to consume it in moderation due to its high sodium, calorie, and fat content. Excessive consumption can lead to weight gain, blood pressure issues, and potential harm to heart health.
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Frequently asked questions
Blue vein cheese is rich in calcium, vitamins, minerals and protein. It can help to improve bone density, lower cholesterol levels, prevent blood clotting and arterial inflammation, and improve memory. It is also good for gut health.
Blue vein cheese contains mould, but it is non-toxic and safe for human consumption. People with penicillin or mould allergies can safely eat blue vein cheese, as long as it has not spoiled. Spoiled blue cheese can produce harmful substances called mycotoxins.
Blue vein cheese is high in salt, saturated fat, calories and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation.
Blue vein cheese can be added to a variety of dishes, including salads, pizzas, wraps, omelettes, tacos and grilled cheese sandwiches. It can also be served on a charcuterie board with meat, nuts or fruit.
