What are the benefits of sheep milk cheese?
Sheep milk cheese such as feta, Manchego, Pecorino Romano and Roquefort is rich in flavor, and like other cheeses it provides protein and calcium. It is also fairly high in fat and often salty. Aged versions are often easier to tolerate for lactose intolerance, but that varies by cheese. Pregnant women should choose pasteurized types.
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What is sheep milk cheese?
It is cheese made from the milk of sheep. Well-known examples include Roquefort (France), Manchego (Spain) and Pecorino Romano (Italy). Authentic Greek feta is made from sheep’s milk or a sheep and goat milk blend. Many have a tangy, nutty or sharp flavor that is stronger than most cow’s milk cheese.
What are the benefits?
- Flavor goes far. A small amount of a strongly flavored cheese can season a dish, so you may use less.
- Protein and calcium. Like other cheeses, sheep cheese gives protein and calcium. Exact numbers differ widely by cheese, and sources I found disagreed, so read the Nutrition Facts label of your product.
- Low lactose when aged. Aged hard cheeses such as Manchego and Pecorino are commonly said to be easier to tolerate for people who are lactose intolerant, though I did not find an official figure. The amount varies by producer, so test a small portion.
- Good for cooking. Feta crumbles on salads, Manchego slices well, Pecorino Romano grates over pasta.
What should you watch?
- Salt. Feta, Roquefort and Pecorino are often salty.
- Fat. Many cheeses are high in fat, so portions matter; read the label.
- Allergy. It is not safe for a milk allergy; sheep milk proteins are similar to cow’s milk proteins.
Is sheep cheese safe in pregnancy?
The NHS says pasteurized soft cheeses such as feta are safe in pregnancy, while soft blue-veined cheeses such as Roquefort, pasteurized or not, should be thoroughly cooked. Unpasteurized goats’ or sheep’s milk should be avoided. Unpasteurized (raw milk) cheese carries a Listeria risk, so check the label for pasteurized milk or ask the seller.
How do you choose and store it?
- Read the label for the milk type; some products blend sheep, goat or cow’s milk.
- Store wrapped in the fridge. Keep feta in its brine and use it by the date on the pack.
- Let hard cheese stand for a few minutes at room temperature before serving for better flavor.
General guidance only. If you have a medical diet, ask your doctor or dietitian.
People also ask
Is sheep cheese lactose-free?
Not exactly. Aged hard cheeses are often easier to tolerate, but lactose amounts vary by cheese and producer, so try a small portion.
What are examples of sheep milk cheese?
Roquefort, Manchego and Pecorino Romano are common examples, and Greek feta is made from sheep's milk or a sheep and goat milk blend.
Can I eat feta when pregnant?
The NHS says feta is safe in pregnancy if it is pasteurized, which most supermarket versions are. Check the pack.
Sources
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