The High Cost Of Feta: Why So Expensive?

is feta cheese expensive

Feta cheese is a popular ingredient in dishes such as salads, pastries, and sandwiches. The price of feta cheese varies depending on the brand, quality, location, and amount needed. Fresh feta cheese sold online or at local grocery stores typically costs between $3 and $7 per pound, with popular brands like President offering 8-ounce containers for $5 to $8. Some sources suggest that Turkish grocers offer more competitive prices, selling large quantities of feta for the same price as smaller packets found in Western supermarkets. Feta cheese is also available at farmer's markets, with prices ranging from $4 to $9 per pound for Greek, Bulgarian, or French varieties.

Characteristics Values
Type of milk used Goat's, sheep's, or cow's milk
Texture Crumbly, grainy
Taste Salty
Calories 75 per ounce
Fat Six grams per ounce
Monosaturated fat One gram per ounce
Protein Four grams per ounce
Carbohydrates One gram per ounce
Sodium 300 milligrams per ounce
Cholesterol 25 milligrams per ounce
Packaging Blocks, containers, tins
Price $3 to $11 per pound
Storage Refrigerate, do not freeze
Shelf life Up to three months

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Feta cheese prices vary depending on brand, quality, location, and amount needed

Feta cheese is a popular ingredient in dishes like salads, pastries, and sandwiches. The price of feta cheese can vary depending on several factors, including brand, quality, location, and the amount needed.

Firstly, the brand of feta cheese can impact the price. Well-known brands like President may be more expensive than lesser-known or generic brands. These popular brands may offer coupons or discounts to make their products more affordable.

Secondly, the quality of feta cheese plays a significant role in its pricing. The highest-quality feta cheese is typically rich, crumbly, and lower in fat. It is often sourced directly from Greece and packaged in brine to maintain freshness and moisture. This type of feta cheese can be more expensive than lower-quality alternatives.

Thirdly, the location where the feta cheese is purchased can affect its price. For example, purchasing feta cheese from specialty cheese shops or high-end grocery stores may be more expensive than buying from international markets or ethnic grocers. Additionally, the location can also refer to the country or region where the cheese is produced. Feta cheese made in Greece, the traditional source, may have different pricing compared to feta cheese produced in other regions.

Lastly, the amount of feta cheese needed will influence the overall price. Feta cheese is typically sold by weight, with prices ranging from $3 to $9 per pound, depending on the source and quality. Larger quantities, such as 1.5kg or 2-pound packages, may offer better value for money, but it is important to consider the potential for waste if the cheese is not consumed within its shelf life.

In summary, when purchasing feta cheese, it is essential to consider the brand, quality, location, and amount needed to determine the final price. By comparing prices across different retailers and brands, consumers can make informed decisions to find the best value for their specific needs.

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Turkish grocers sell large quantities of feta for cheaper prices

Feta cheese is a beloved staple in Mediterranean cuisine, with a rich history of cheesemaking in both Greece and Turkey. In Turkey, feta is known as "beyaz peynir" or "white cheese" and is a staple in Turkish cuisine, often served for breakfast with olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers, as well as in dishes such as börek, gözleme, and simit.

While feta cheese is commonly found in dishes such as salads, pastries, and sandwiches, the price of this cheese can vary depending on the brand, quality, location, and amount needed. Fresh feta cheese sold online or at local grocery stores can cost anywhere from $3 to $7 per pound, with prices increasing for higher-quality cheese.

However, it has been observed that Turkish grocers sell feta cheese at significantly cheaper prices than Western supermarkets. Turkish grocers offer gigantic 1.5kg tins of various brands for the same price as the tiny packets aimed at Western shoppers. For example, in the UK, feta cheese can be purchased at Turkish markets for as little as 59p. Similarly, in Chicago, the feta at local international markets is reported to be cheaper and of better quality than that found at Costco.

This discrepancy in pricing may be attributed to the cultural and culinary significance of feta cheese in Turkey, as well as the desire to make ethnic grocers more affordable and accessible.

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Feta cheese is best when eaten fresh, but can be stored for up to three months

Feta cheese is a popular ingredient, commonly used in dishes such as salads, pastries, and sandwiches. It is typically made from goat's or sheep's milk, although some cheaper varieties are made from cow's milk. The price of feta cheese can vary depending on brand, quality, location, and amount, but it is generally considered to be an affordable option. For example, in the UK, feta cheese can be purchased for as little as 59p at Turkish markets, and in the US, it can be found for around $3 to $7 per pound.

While feta cheese is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored for a period of time if needed. When purchasing feta, it is recommended to look for cheese that is directly from a brine bath, as the brine helps to preserve the cheese and keep it moist. If the feta is not packaged in brine, it can be stored in a milk bath to extend its shelf life. Feta cheese should not be frozen, as this can negatively impact its flavor. Instead, it should be stored in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three months.

It is worth noting that the shelf life of feta cheese may vary depending on its packaging and storage conditions. Feta cheese sold in blocks tends to have a longer shelf life compared to crumbled feta, which often contains additives and anti-caking agents that can affect its taste and freshness. Additionally, proper storage of feta cheese is crucial to prevent spoilage. This includes keeping the brine clean and remaking the brine from time to time to prevent the cheese from becoming mushy.

Some sources suggest that feta cheese can last longer than three months, with some people claiming to have consumed feta cheese that was stored for over three months without any issues. However, it is always recommended to follow food safety guidelines and consume the cheese within the suggested timeframe to ensure optimal freshness and quality.

In summary, while feta cheese is at its best when eaten fresh, proper storage techniques can extend its shelf life for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this versatile and affordable ingredient in a variety of dishes.

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Feta is commonly sold in blocks or crumbles, with blocks being the preferred option

Feta is a traditional Greek cheese, typically made from sheep's milk, although goat's milk is also used. Cow's milk is often used as a substitute in mass-marketed feta. It is a "brine" cheese, cured in salt water, which gives it a very salty taste. Feta is commonly sold in blocks or crumbles, with blocks being the preferred option.

Blocks of feta are often sold in brine, which keeps the cheese moist and fresh for up to three months. The liquid protects the cheese from exposure to air, preventing it from drying out and developing a sour taste. Blocks of feta are also more versatile in cooking, especially when melting the cheese, and they have a longer shelf life than crumbles. Crumbled feta is often treated with additives to prevent clumping, which can affect the taste and texture, making it dry and hard.

Feta is widely available in local grocery stores, with prices ranging from $3 to $7 per pound for fresh cheese. Local farmer's markets may offer a wider variety of feta, including Greek, Bulgarian, and French options, with prices ranging from $4 to $9 per pound.

For those seeking a more economical option, Turkish grocers offer large quantities of feta at competitive prices. However, these options may not be readily accessible to all buyers. Additionally, some sources suggest that international markets offer better quality feta at more affordable prices compared to mainstream retailers.

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Feta is traditionally made from sheep's or goat's milk, but mass-marketed versions use cow's milk

Feta cheese is a traditional Greek delicacy, often served in salads, pastries, and sandwiches. It is typically made from sheep's or goat's milk, with a rich, crumbly texture and a sharp taste. However, the mass-marketed versions commonly found in supermarkets are usually made from cow's milk. These versions tend to have a milder flavour and a softer texture.

The price of feta cheese can vary depending on brand, quality, location, and amount. Fresh feta cheese sold online or at local grocery stores typically costs between $3 and $7 per pound. For example, a 2-pound block of deli-fresh feta cheese can range from $6 to $9. Local farmer's markets may offer a wider variety of feta cheese, such as Greek, Bulgarian, or French, and prices can range from $4 to $9 per pound.

When purchasing feta cheese, it is recommended to look for those stored in brine, as this helps preserve moisture and freshness. Feta cheese can also be found in containers with no brine or in plain plastic packaging. If you plan to cook with feta cheese, it is best to buy it in blocks rather than crumbles, as the latter often contains additives to prevent clumping and may have a shorter shelf life.

Some sources suggest that Turkish grocers offer more competitive prices for feta cheese, selling large quantities at similar prices to smaller packets found in Western supermarkets. However, the availability of such options may depend on your location.

Overall, while feta cheese prices can vary, it is possible to find affordable options by exploring different retailers and considering factors such as brand, quality, and packaging.

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Frequently asked questions

Feta cheese can be purchased online or at a local grocery store for $3 to $7 per pound. Local farmer's markets may also sell feta cheese, which can range from $4 to $9 per pound.

Feta cheese from your local supermarket can be expensive. Instead, try looking for a Turkish grocer, where you can buy large quantities of feta cheese for a lower price.

Feta cheese is best when eaten fresh. If you don't plan on eating it right away, it's best to let it sit in a brine or milk bath. On average, this cheese will last no more than three months. When storing, don't freeze it as it will take away most of the flavor.

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