Fact-checked by Lucent 3 months ago
Total Sources: 50
Verified Claims: 39
Scientific Sources: 21
Cheese is a dairy product made from milk, widely consumed for its flavor and nutritional content [5], [6]. It is produced by coagulating milk protein, separating it from the whey, and allowing it to ripen [27], [28].
A solid food made from milk, where the milk proteins are coagulated, and the liquid whey is separated. It comes in a wide variety of flavors, textures and forms [27].
Direct consumption as a snack or part of a meal
Ingredient in various dishes, including pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods [21]
Moderate, driven by health and ethical considerations.
Cheese has been a significant component of the human diet for approximately 8000 years [5].
Cheese is viewed as an object of art, a piece of human history, and an heirloom passed down from antiquity [27].
In Corsica, casu marzu cheese is considered a symbol of the island’s culture and culinary tradition [32].
First pictorial evidence of cheesemaking found in Mesopotamia [28].
Romans develop cheese presses and discover ripening techniques [27].
Cheddar cheese is first recorded [28].
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is first recorded [28].
Gouda cheese is first recorded [28].
Camembert cheese is first recorded [28].
Dairy consumption, including cheese, is associated with a reduced risk of several non-communicable diseases [5].
Cheese intake may have protective effects against cardiovascular disease and stroke [6], [14].
Cheese can be a good source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients [5], [6], [26].
Some cheeses may contain contaminants like aflatoxin M1 [12].
High-pressure processing (HPP) can be used to improve the safety of cheese by reducing vegetative microorganisms [4].
Association between dairy intake and multiple health outcomes: a scoping review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Consuming dairy is not associated with an increased risk of non-communicable diseases or mortality and may moderately reduce the risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes and certain cancers [5].
A global analysis of dairy consumption and incident cardiovascular disease
Dairy consumption, particularly cheese, may have protective effects against CVD and stroke [6].
Effect of Cheese Intake on Cardiovascular Diseases and Cardiovascular Biomarkers
Cheese intake causally reduced the risks of type 2 diabetes, heart failure, coronary heart disease, hypertension, and ischemic stroke [14].
A national systematic literature review for aflatoxin M1 in commonly consumed cheese brands in Iran: Human health risk assessment by Monte Carlo simulation
Cheese may contain contaminants such as aflatoxin M1 [12].
The efficacy and safety of high-pressure processing of food
High-pressure processing (HPP) of food will not present any additional microbial or chemical food safety concerns when compared to other routinely applied treatments [4].
Generally safe when consumed in moderation, with consideration for individual intolerances and potential contamination risks [1], [5], [47].
The impact of cheese on health varies depending on the type of cheese, quantity consumed, and individual health factors. Some studies suggest melted cheese may have a different impact on lipid metabolism compared to unmelted cheese [13]. Some cheeses have low levels of lactose and can be tolerated by people who are lactose intolerant [39].
Vegan Cheese
For individuals avoiding dairy due to allergies, intolerances, or dietary preferences [43].
Where to find: Specialty grocery stores, health food stores, and some major supermarkets [21, 37].
Nutritional Yeast
To impart a cheesy flavor in vegan dishes [35].
Where to find: Health food stores, some major supermarkets, and online retailers.
Tofu-based cheese
Offers a creamy texture and can be flavored to mimic various cheeses [36].