What are the differences between sheep milk and cow milk?
Sheep milk is richer than cow milk: it is higher in fat, protein, calcium and calories per cup, and it is creamier and slightly sweeter. Cow milk comes in skim, low-fat and whole versions, so the fat gap depends on which one you compare. Sheep milk is mostly used for cheese and yogurt such as feta, pecorino and Roquefort.
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What is the difference between sheep milk and cow milk?
Sheep milk is thicker and more concentrated. Published nutrition tables show that a cup of sheep milk has about twice the fat of whole cow milk, roughly double the protein and clearly more calcium, so it has noticeably more calories. The exact numbers depend on the breed, the season and the product, so use the label on the carton or the cheese. The figures below are approximate comparisons, not label values.
| Sheep milk | Cow milk (whole) | |
|---|---|---|
| Fat | Higher, about double | Lower |
| Protein | Higher | Lower |
| Calcium | Higher | Lower |
| Taste | Creamy, slightly sweet, can taste ‘sheepy’ | Mild |
| Main uses | Cheese, yogurt | Drinking, all-round |
Is sheep milk healthier than cow milk?
Not simply. It is more nutrient-dense, but also higher in fat, saturated fat and calories. The NHS says milk and dairy are great sources of protein and calcium, and it does not rank sheep milk above cow milk. Which one suits you depends on your calorie, fat and protein needs.
Is sheep milk lactose free?
No. Sheep milk contains lactose, and some research suggests the amount is similar to or a little higher than in cow milk. If you are lactose intolerant, choose a lactose-free product. If you have a milk allergy, sheep milk can also trigger a reaction because the proteins are related, so ask an allergist before trying it.
Can babies drink sheep milk?
The NHS advises that babies under 1 should not have goats’ or sheep’s milk as their main drink because they do not contain the right balance of nutrients. From 1 year, pasteurized sheep milk can be given, and from about 6 months it can be used in cooked foods.
What is sheep milk used for?
Mostly cheese and yogurt: feta, pecorino, manchego and Roquefort are traditionally made from it. Sheep milk is rarely sold as plain drinking milk in supermarkets, so it is also pricier and harder to find than cow milk.
Which should you choose?
- For everyday drinking and cereal: cow milk.
- For richer yogurt and cheese: sheep milk products.
- For allergy or intolerance: ask a doctor or dietitian first.
People also ask
Is sheep milk better than cow milk?
It is richer in fat, protein and calcium, but also higher in calories. Neither is better in general; it depends on your needs.
Does sheep milk have lactose?
Yes. It is not lactose free, so people with lactose intolerance should still choose lactose-free products.
Can babies drink sheep milk?
The NHS says not as a main drink under 1 year. From 1 year, pasteurized sheep milk is fine.
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