
Traditional cheese-making is the artisanal process of transforming milk into a wide variety of cheeses using natural coagulants like rennet or acids, cultures, and aging techniques. It is a craft with deep roots in many cultures, particularly in Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, where specific methods define regional specialties.
Cheese is generally high in fat and protein, providing a dense source of energy, calcium, and phosphorus. A typical serving can range from 100 to 400 calories, depending on the type and fat content.
| Calories | 113 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbs | 0.4 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0.1 g |
| Sodium | 176 mg |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Phosphorus | 145 mg |
| Vitamin A | 85 µg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.2 µg |
| Zinc | 1.0 mg |
| Selenium | 5.5 µg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.08 mg |
| Sodium | 176 mg |
Per 1 ounce (28 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
The diversity of cheese is staggering, with over 1,000 distinct varieties worldwide, each shaped by local milk sources, microbial cultures, and centuries-old aging practices. Nutritionally, it's a potent source of bioavailable calcium and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid linked to various health benefits.