What is the difference between natural and processed cheese?

Natural cheese and processed cheese are both cheese products, but there are some key differences between the two.

Natural cheese is made from milk that has been fermented with bacteria. The bacteria convert the lactose in the milk into lactic acid, which causes the milk to coagulate and form curds. The curds are then cut, heated, and pressed into wheels or blocks. Natural cheese can be made from whole milk, skim milk, or a combination of the two.

Processed cheese is made from natural cheese that has been melted and mixed with other ingredients, such as milk solids, fats, and emulsifiers. Processed cheese is often sold in slices or blocks, and it has a longer shelf life than natural cheese.

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between natural and processed cheese:

| Feature | Natural Cheese | Processed Cheese |

|---|---|---|

| Made from | Milk that has been fermented with bacteria | Natural cheese that has been melted and mixed with other ingredients |

| Texture | Soft, semi-soft, or hard | Soft, semi-soft, or hard |

| Flavor | Varies depending on the type of milk and the aging process | Varies depending on the type of natural cheese and the other ingredients that are added |

| Shelf life | Shorter than processed cheese | Longer than natural cheese |

Which type of cheese is healthier?

Natural cheese is generally considered to be healthier than processed cheese. This is because natural cheese does not contain the added ingredients that are found in processed cheese, such as emulsifiers and stabilizers. These ingredients can have negative effects on health, such as increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Natural cheese is also a good source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients. It can be a healthy part of a balanced diet. However, it is important to moderate your intake of cheese, as it is high in fat and calories.

How to choose the best cheese

When choosing cheese, look for natural cheese that is made from whole milk. Avoid processed cheese that contains added ingredients, such as emulsifiers and stabilizers.

You should also consider the flavor and texture of the cheese. Some cheeses are milder than others, and some are harder than others. Choose a cheese that you enjoy eating and that will complement the other foods you are eating.

Cheese can be a healthy and delicious part of a balanced diet. However, it is important to moderate your intake of cheese, as it is high in fat and calories.