Frederic Melton
Feta cheese is often considered a healthier alternative to other cheeses, but is it really healthier than cow cheese? Feta is a Greek cheese traditionally made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep and goat's milk. Cow cheese, on the other hand, is typically made from cow's milk, as the name suggests. So, which is the healthier option? Well, it depends on various factors, including the specific nutrients and health benefits offered by each type of cheese.
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What You'll Learn
- Feta cheese is made from sheep and goat's milk, while cow's cheese is made from cow's milk
- Feta has a higher calcium content, which promotes bone health
- Feta is often packaged in brine, which makes it high in sodium
- Feta contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may help reduce body fat
- Feta is a fresh cheese with a shorter shelf life compared to aged cheeses like cheddar
Feta cheese is made from sheep and goat's milk, while cow's cheese is made from cow's milk
Feta cheese is traditionally made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep's and goat's milk. It originates from Greece, specifically the Balkan Peninsula, an area where sheep and goats flourish. French feta, a milder variety, originates from southwest France and uses milk from specific female sheep breeds. Bulgarian feta blends sheep, goat, and cow's milk, while Wisconsin feta is made solely from cow's milk for a lighter, less tangy taste.
Cow's cheese, on the other hand, is made from cow's milk. This includes varieties such as cheddar, mozzarella, and cottage cheese. For example, mozzarella is a soft white cheese that usually originates from Italy and is made from Italian buffalo's or cow's milk. Cottage cheese, a soft and white cheese with a curd-based texture, also typically uses cow's milk.
The type of milk used to make cheese influences its nutritional profile. Feta cheese, due to its source of milk, has higher calcium and phosphorus content than cow's milk cheese. This makes feta cheese a good option for those seeking to meet their recommended daily intake of calcium. Additionally, milk from sheep and goats contains more calcium and phosphorus than cow's milk, contributing to improved bone density and osteoporosis prevention.
However, it is important to note that feta cheese is often packaged in brine, resulting in a higher sodium content. Feta also has a higher lactose content as it is an unripened cheese. Those allergic or intolerant to lactose should be cautious when consuming feta. Furthermore, while feta contains beneficial bacteria and fatty acids like conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may aid in reducing body fat, it also has a high saturated fat content, which may negatively impact cholesterol levels.
In summary, feta cheese, made primarily from sheep and goat's milk, offers higher calcium and phosphorus levels, contributing to bone health. Cow's milk cheese, on the other hand, varies in its specific nutrient profile depending on the type of cow's milk cheese in question. The nutritional benefits of cow's milk cheese can vary depending on factors such as the aging process and the specific nutrients present in the cow's milk used.
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Feta has a higher calcium content, which promotes bone health
Feta cheese is a popular Greek cheese with a distinct salty flavour and a soft, crumbly texture. It is traditionally made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep and goat's milk, with goat's milk not exceeding 30% of the mixture. However, some varieties of feta cheese, such as Wisconsin feta, are made solely from cow's milk.
When comparing feta cheese to other types of cheese, such as cheddar, it is important to note that feta has a higher calcium content. Calcium is an essential mineral for maintaining healthy teeth and bones. It helps to keep our bones strong and prevents bone-related health issues like osteoporosis. By incorporating feta cheese into your diet, you can increase your calcium intake and promote bone health.
The calcium content in feta cheese is particularly notable because it is made from sheep's and goat's milk, which naturally contain higher levels of calcium than cow's milk. This means that feta cheese can provide a good source of calcium for those who may be intolerant or allergic to cow's milk. The calcium in feta cheese also works in conjunction with other nutrients present, such as phosphorus, to further enhance bone health.
In addition to its high calcium content, feta cheese also offers other health benefits. It is a source of protein and beneficial bacteria, which contribute to gut health and immune system function. Feta cheese also contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid that has been linked to improved body composition and reduced body fat. However, it is important to note that the effects of CLA on cholesterol levels and sugar metabolism require further study.
While feta cheese has its nutritional benefits, it is also high in sodium and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Nevertheless, its high calcium content makes it a good choice for those looking to improve their bone health through their dietary choices.
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Feta is often packaged in brine, which makes it high in sodium
Feta cheese is often regarded as a healthy cheese option. It is made from goat's milk, which more closely resembles mother's milk in composition. The fat globules in goat's milk are smaller and easier to absorb than those in cow's milk, and they are less mucus-forming. Feta cheese is also a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and protein, which are essential for maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis. Furthermore, milk from sheep and goats contains more calcium and phosphorus than cow's milk, so incorporating feta cheese into your diet can help you achieve your recommended daily intake of these nutrients.
However, one concern about feta cheese is its high sodium content. Feta is often packaged in brine, which is a saltwater solution used to preserve freshness. As a result, feta cheese can be high in sodium, with 312 mg of sodium per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving, contributing up to 13% of your recommended daily intake. This high sodium content can be a concern for individuals on a low-sodium diet or those sensitive to salt. To reduce the salt content, one simple method is to rinse the cheese with water before consumption.
While feta cheese offers various health benefits, it is important to consider its sodium levels, especially for those monitoring their salt intake. Rinsing the cheese with water can help mitigate this concern and make feta a healthier option. Additionally, feta cheese is often lower in calories compared to other cheeses, making it a popular choice for those conscious about their calorie intake.
It is worth noting that the health benefits and risks of feta cheese may vary depending on the type of milk used and the specific production methods employed. Traditional Greek feta is made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk, with goat's milk typically not exceeding 30% of the mixture. However, some modern feta cheeses available in the market may be made from cow's milk, which can alter the nutritional profile.
In conclusion, feta cheese packaged in brine can be high in sodium, contributing to a significant portion of an individual's recommended daily intake. However, by rinsing the cheese with water, this concern can be addressed, making feta a healthier option that offers various benefits, including improved bone health and a good source of friendly bacteria.
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Feta contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may help reduce body fat
Feta cheese is a Greek cheese traditionally made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep and goat's milk. However, goat's milk cannot exceed 30% of the mixture. Feta cheese has a soft, crumbly texture, a salty flavour, and a tangy, sharp taste.
Feta cheese contains a fatty acid known as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Studies have shown that CLA can help reduce body fat. These studies also indicate that CLA can help improve body composition in the long term, decreasing fat mass and increasing lean body mass. However, it is important to note that these studies are not entirely consistent, and further research is required to establish a stronger link. Some studies have even suggested that CLA can negatively affect sugar metabolism and cholesterol levels.
The amount of CLA in cheese depends on the type of milk used in its production. Cheeses made with sheep's milk, such as feta, have a higher concentration of CLA compared to cheeses made with cow's milk or goat's milk. Feta cheese contains up to 1.9% CLA, which accounts for 0.8% of its fat content.
While feta cheese offers potential health benefits due to its CLA content, it is important to consider other aspects of its nutritional profile. Feta cheese is often packaged in brine to maintain freshness, which can result in a high sodium content. Additionally, as an unripened cheese, feta has a higher lactose content, which may be a concern for individuals with lactose intolerance. Furthermore, like other types of cheese, feta contains saturated fat, which some experts recommend limiting in the diet.
In conclusion, while feta cheese contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) which may help reduce body fat, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile of feta cheese, including its sodium, lactose, and saturated fat content, when evaluating its health benefits.
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Feta is a fresh cheese with a shorter shelf life compared to aged cheeses like cheddar
Feta cheese is a fresh, soft cheese with a high moisture content. Its shelf life depends on how it is stored. Feta sold in blocks can be wrapped in plastic or placed in a container with or without brine. When stored in the refrigerator, feta cheese will remain edible for several days to a week. However, if submerged in brine, its shelf life can be extended to several weeks or even up to three months. Freezing feta cheese can also prolong its freshness for up to six months.
On the other hand, cheddar is a hard cheese with a lower moisture content. Hard cheeses like cheddar have a longer shelf life compared to soft cheeses like feta. When stored properly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in the coldest part of the refrigerator, unopened hard cheeses can last for several months to a year. Even after their expiration date, hard cheeses are more likely to remain safe for consumption if properly stored and showing no signs of spoilage.
The difference in shelf life between feta and cheddar cheeses can be attributed to their varying moisture contents. Feta's high moisture content makes it more susceptible to spoilage, while the lower moisture content of cheddar contributes to its extended shelf life.
To maximize the shelf life of feta cheese, it is essential to follow proper storage practices. Feta should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its quality and freshness. Using brine or an airtight container can further extend its shelf life. Additionally, maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial, as fluctuations can impact the quality of the cheese.
In summary, feta cheese is a fresh cheese with a shorter shelf life compared to aged, hard cheeses like cheddar. The shelf life of feta cheese can range from several days to a few months, depending on storage methods, while cheddar and other hard cheeses can last for several months to a year when properly stored.
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Frequently asked questions
Feta cheese is made from sheep and goat's milk, while cow cheese is made from cow's milk. Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and protein, which promote bone health and prevent osteoporosis. It also contains beneficial bacteria that promote immune and intestinal health. However, feta cheese is high in sodium and can be high in saturated fat. Cow cheese, such as cheddar, is higher in calories, fats, proteins, and vitamins. Therefore, feta cheese may be considered healthier than cow cheese due to its higher bone-supporting nutrient content and lower calorie and fat content.
Feta cheese made from sheep and goat's milk has a higher concentration of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid that has been linked to improved body composition and reduced body fat. It also contains more calcium and phosphorus than cow's milk, further contributing to bone health.
Feta cheese is high in sodium, with a 1-ounce (28-gram) serving containing 312 mg of sodium. It is also packaged in brine, which further increases its salt content. People sensitive to salt can reduce this by rinsing the cheese with water before consumption. Feta cheese also has a high lactose content and should be avoided by those with lactose intolerance. Additionally, it contains saturated fat, which should be limited in the diet.
Feta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be added to various dishes. You can crumble it over salads, add it to eggs, or use it as a dip for fresh vegetables. It is a good way to incorporate calcium, phosphorus, and protein into your diet, but it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sodium and saturated fat content.
