Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese

 

 

 

Cottage cheese is a good source of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium, which play a vital role in many of the body functions. The health benefits of cottage cheese include weight loss, a good supply of protein, B complex vitamins, and healthy fats.

What is Cottage Cheese?

Cottage cheese is prepared by boiling and curdling milk with the help of acidic substances such as lime or vinegar. As the milk boils, it starts to curdle, forming lumps of curd. This curd is then pressed to squeeze out the whey or milk serum to form a big lump of curd or cheese.

Cheese is a milk product that is made in a number of different ways and can be purchased in different forms depending on the milk and fat content. The different types of cheese include hoop cheese, farmer cheese, pot cheese, paneer, queso blanco, and various others. Each of these cheeses is prepared with a different procedure and sometimes different ingredients are added. Thus, different kinds of cheeses have evolved with different flavors.

The process of preparing cottage cheese and commercial cheese is somewhat similar. The only difference is in the proportion of milk used to obtain the cheese.

According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, nutrients found in cottage cheese (100 g) include energy (98 kcal), carbohydrates (3.38 g), fat (4.5 g), sugar (2.6 g), protein (11.12 g), vitamin A (37 ugs), and vitamin D (21 ugs). Some trace elements found in cottage cheese include calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, selenium, and zinc.

Cottage cheese is formed when casein, a milk protein, reacts with acid and coagulates. This is one of the favorite proteins for athletes, bodybuilders, sprinters, and various sports enthusiasts because casein is a very slow-digesting protein and releases energy slowly. Whey protein is also a preferred type, which is a by-product of cottage cheese. Whey is very healthy and popular amongst sports and fitness enthusiasts. It can be stored in a cool place to be used at a later time.

9 Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese provides many health benefits, which are listed below:

Rich in Protein

One of the biggest benefits of cottage cheese is the high amount of casein protein found in it. It is believed that cow’s milk may contain the highest amount of casein protein among various kinds of milk. The amount of protein contained in cottage cheese is ideal for vegetarians in supplying them with the required amount of daily protein. Cottage cheese does not require any amount of cooking and it can be consumed directly. A study cited in JAMA Network shows that drinking milk provides excess energy in some children.

Good For Pregnant Women

Cottage cheese is recommended for pregnant women along with athletes due to various essential nutrients found in it. They need calcium and cottage cheese is a very good source of it. Cottage cheese also contains phosphorus, an important element found in bones, which is also recommended during pregnancy.

Rich in B-complex Vitamins

B-complex vitamins, found in cottage cheese, are helpful in various metabolic activities in our body. They include vitamin B12, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, thiamin, niacin, and folate.

  • Vitamin B12 is needed for proper brain functioning and helps in absorbing iron.
  • Riboflavin helps in converting carbohydrates into energy.
  • Pantothenic acid acts as a synthesizer that helps in forming proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and amino acids in our body.
  • Thiamin helps in converting sugars into energy in the pyruvate dehydrogenase system.
  • Niacin plays an important role in digestion, energy production, and cholesterol reduction.
  • Folate helps in fetal development in pregnant women, producing red blood cells, and keeping the heart healthy.

Strengthen Bones

Calcium is one of the major elements associated with milk and milk products such as curd or cottage cheese. The benefits of calcium-rich foods may include bone strengthening and weight loss. The amount of calcium in cottage cheese is 8% of the daily recommended value. Calcium may help in building strong bones throughout childhood and adulthood. Eating calcium-rich foods during pregnancy and later years is helpful, especially in the prevention of osteoporosis. It also helps the nervous system in sending nerve impulses.

Help Maintain Blood Sugar Levels

Cottage cheese help reduce blood sugar levels. Many recommend it as one of the best snacks to have for people with diabetes. In a study conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Minnesota, USA, and published in the Nutrition and Metabolism Journal, men who ate 25 grams of cottage cheese with 50 grams of sugar had 38% lower blood sugar afterward, compared to those who consumed sugar alone.

Improve Biological Functions

Zinc found in cottage cheese is about 4% of the daily recommended value. In the human body, it is found in the brain, muscles, bones, kidneys, liver, prostate, and eyes. It helps in the metabolism of DNA and RNA. Zinc is one of the trace elements whose presence in our body helps in improving the immune system and digestion. It is also useful for relieving stress and anxiety, curing night blindness, improving ocular health, preventing appetite loss and prostate disorder, and fighting various infections. Moreover, it acts as an antioxidant too.

Improve Digestion

Cottage cheese contains phosphorus, which can play a major role in the formation of DNA and RNA. It is a major component in forming bones along with calcium. Phosphates may also help in digestion, excretion, and in the production and extraction of energy in the cells. A 2012 study shows that moderate intake of cottage cheese along with other fruits, vegetables, vegetable oils, and whole grains is effective in achieving and maintaining weight loss.

Have Antioxidant Properties

Selenium is a trace element found in cottage cheese. It is required in very small quantities, not more than 50 mcg to 70 mcg in adults. Selenium is useful as an antioxidant that protects cells and DNA from damage.

Cholesterol Levels in Cottage Cheese

The level of cholesterol in cottage cheese depends upon the type of milk used for preparing it. If whole milk is used for cheese preparation, the cholesterol content would be higher (33 mg per cup) as compared to low-fat milk (10 mg per cup) or no fat milk (4 mg per cup). So, if you are health conscious, use low-fat versions of cottage cheese to avoid extra fat intake and excessive cholesterol.

 

 

 

Global Goat Milk Products Market Size & Outlook Updates

Goat Milk Market Outlook 2024: a resilient growth from $5.75 billion in 2023 to $6.63 billion by 2028
The global evaporated goat milk market is on an upward trajectory, fueled by its nutrient-rich profile and growing popularity as a lactose-alternative.

The goat milk products industry worldwide is expected to reach a projected revenue of US$ 17,908.3 million by 2030. A compound annual growth rate of 4.7% is expected of the worldwide goat milk products industry from 2024 to 2030.

Global goat milk products market highlights:

  • The global goat milk products market generated a revenue of US$ 12,956.3 million in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 17,908.3 million by 2030.
  • Market analysis by Research and Markets, featured on a premier research platform, projects a resilient growth from $5.75 billion in 2023 to an estimated $6.63 billion by 2028, supported by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.0%.
  • The market is expected to grow at a CAGR (2024 – 2030) of 4.7% by 2030.
  • In terms of segment, liquid milk accounted for a revenue of US$ 8,244.6 million in 2023.
  • Powdered Milk is the most lucrative product segment registering the fastest growth during the forecast period.
  • In terms of region, Asia Pacific was the largest revenue generating market in 2023.
  • Country-wise, Saudi Arabia is expected to register the highest CAGR from 2024 to 2030.

Key Growth Drivers:

  • Health and Wellness Trends: Increasing consumer awareness regarding the health benefits of goat milk and its culinary versatility.
  • Lactose Intolerance Prevalence: The rise in lactose-intolerant populations globally contributes to the growing acceptance of evaporated goat milk.
  • Disposable Income Surge: Growing disposable income across regions propels the demand for premium and health-conscious products.
  • Vegan and Dairy-Free Lifestyles: The shift towards vegan and dairy-free lifestyles is a significant factor influencing market expansion.

Factors Propelling Growth:

  • Consumer Awareness: Rising understanding of the nutritional advantages of evaporated goat milk, especially suitable for children and those with dietary restrictions.
  • Technological Advances: Ongoing efforts in product innovation and technological advancements by key industry players.
  • Government Support: Favorable policies and government backing for dairy alternatives and lactose-intolerant friendly products.
  • Functional Variations: Availability of functional and fortified goat milk options catering to modern consumer preferences.

Regional Dynamics and Market Segmentation:

Europe Dominance: Europe stands as a prominent player, followed by contributions from Asia-Pacific, North America, and the MEA region.

Category Segmentation: The market is categorized into whole evaporated milk and skimmed evaporated milk, each finding application in areas such as infant food, dairy products, confectionery, and bakeries.

Distribution Channels: Both online and offline channels contribute to the accessibility of evaporated goat milk products.

This comprehensive report provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the evaporated goat milk market, offering a strategic perspective for industry stakeholders navigating this dynamic and growing sector.

 

How To Make White Sauce

All-in-one white sauce
This basic white sauce recipe (aka béchamel sauce) is so versatile, and can be dressed-up or dressed-down for any occasion.  You can add cheese, or flavour the milk with onion or bay. Follow the simple steps and tips to avoid lumps and add flavour.

 

Preparation time less than 30 mins, Cooking time 10 to 30 mins Serves Makes 1 pint

 

Ingredients:

  • 500ml/18fl oz goat milk
  • 40g/2oz butter
  • 40g/2oz plain flour
  • salt and white pepper

 

Directions:

  • Melt the butter in a saucepan.
  • Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Take the pan off the heat and gradually stir in one-third of the milk. Return to the heat and simmer, stirring, until all the milk is absorbed.
  • Repeat this process, stirring all the time, allowing the sauce to become thick and shiny before adding more milk.
  • When all the milk is added bring to the boil. Simmer gently for 8-10 minutes and season with salt and white pepper.

 

*Recipe Tips

You can infuse the milk with a bay leaf or half a peeled onion for an extra layer flavour. This white sauce, also called bechamel sauce, is used as part of a lasagne.

Opinions differ as to whether the milk added to a white sauce should be hot or cold. Some say that using cold milk in a hot roux gives the sauce more time to absorb the liquid and will result in fewer lumps. Others advocate hot milk to help melt the roux. The choice is yours.