What is sheep milk?
Sheep milk is milk from domestic sheep. It is richer than cow milk, with more fat and protein, so it is mostly turned into cheese and yogurt such as feta, Roquefort and pecorino, though it can be drunk fresh. Exact numbers vary by breed and season. It is not lactose free, and it is not safe for people with a milk allergy.
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What is sheep milk?
Sheep milk is the milk of domestic sheep. It is a creamy, slightly sweet milk that is rich in fat and protein, which is why it is prized for cheese and yogurt more than for drinking. It is sold in some stores and farm shops, usually as cheese or yogurt.
How does it compare with cow milk?
Published figures vary with breed, feed and stage of lactation, so treat numbers as approximate. Research summaries generally report sheep milk with clearly more fat and protein than cow milk. A University of Auckland release says sheep milk has almost twice the calcium and zinc of cow milk and more protein and fat per glass. It also describes a trial of 30 women, supported by sheep milk producers, that was not yet peer-reviewed, so treat its digestion findings as preliminary.
| Point | Sheep milk | Cow milk |
|---|---|---|
| Fat and protein | Higher | Lower |
| Calories | Higher per cup | Lower per cup |
| Main use | Cheese, yogurt | Drinking, cooking |
What is it used for?
- Cheese: feta (from Greece, made from sheep milk or a sheep and goat blend), Roquefort (France) and the pecorino family (Italy).
- Yogurt: common in Greece and other Mediterranean countries.
- Drinking and cooking: possible, but it is rich and filling.
Who should avoid it?
People with a cow milk allergy often react to sheep milk too, because the proteins are similar. It also contains lactose, so it is not lactose free. If you have a milk allergy or intolerance, ask a doctor or dietitian before trying it.
How to buy and store it
- Check that it is pasteurized, or that the cheese is made from pasteurized milk if you are pregnant or immunocompromised; ask your doctor.
- Follow the date on the label and keep it refrigerated once opened.
This is general information, not medical advice.
People also ask
Is sheep milk better than cow milk?
It has more fat, protein and calories per cup, but better is subjective. Small studies suggest differences in digestion, and larger independent research is still needed.
Is sheep milk lactose free?
No. It contains lactose, so people with lactose intolerance may still react to it.
What cheeses are made from sheep milk?
Feta, Roquefort and pecorino are well-known examples. Some versions are made partly or wholly from cow milk.
Sources
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