Cheese

Cheese is a food produced from milk, typically from cows, goats, or sheep. It is made by coagulating the milk's proteins, usually by adding a starter culture of bacteria and an enzyme called rennet. The resulting curds are then separated from the whey and pressed into a mould.

Cheese is widely used as a primary ingredient in dishes like pizzas, pasta, and gratins, and as a topping or filling for sandwiches, crackers, and baked goods. Its rich flavour, creamy texture, and melting properties make it a versatile ingredient for enhancing taste and mouthfeel in a variety of savoury foods.

Cheese is a source of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12. It can also be high in saturated fat and sodium. The UK's Eatwell Guide recommends consuming dairy products, including cheese, as part of a balanced diet, noting that full-fat versions contribute to saturated fat intake. While cheese contains naturally occurring sugars, it does not contain added sugars. Regulatory bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated cheese as a foodstuff, and it is not classified as a food additive requiring an E-number.