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Cheese made from raw milk is said to possess several benefits over cheese made from pasteurized milk. Proponents of raw milk claim the pasteurization process lessens the nutritional value of dairy products.
Higher Nutrient Content
Advocates of raw milk cheese, including the Raw Milk Cheese Association, claim that raw milk cheese is higher in several key nutrients, including vitamin C, than cheese made from pasteurized milk.
Enzymes
Proponents of raw milk claim that pasteurization kills enzymes that can safeguard against several diseases, including cancer. These enzymes also help the body absorb nutrients such as calcium.
Bacteria Fighter
Although raw milk detractors claim it is unsafe, raw milk advocates contend that pasteurization kills beneficial bacteria that inhibit pathogens.
Pasteurized Milk Dangers
According to Cornell University, scientific data does not support the notion that pasteurized milk is linked to an increased risk of ailments such as heart disease, cancer, and tooth decay. Despite this, many raw milk proponents cite this as a benefit to consuming raw milk cheese and other raw dairy products.
Avoiding Processed Foods
Those who tout raw milk cheese note that it is simply less processed than the dairy products most of us consume. Along similar lines, it is more often produced by small, local farms as opposed to large conglomerates.
Source:
Raw Milk Advocacy and Resources
Washington State University Report on Raw Milk
Cornell University Position Statement on the Consumption of Raw Milk
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