Is Brillat-Savarin affiné (40 % MG) Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look for specific red flags when determining if a cheese is Halal: animal-based rennet (enzymes from animal stomachs) and alcohol used as a preservative or flavor carrier. For Brillat-Savarin affiné, the ingredient list is refreshingly transparent.

The primary ingredients are Lait (Milk) and Crème (Cream), both derived from cow's milk. These are naturally Halal. The Sel (Salt) is a mineral and poses no issue. The critical component in cheese is the coagulant, listed here as Présure (Rennet). In this product, the rennet is microbial (vegetarian), meaning it is derived from molds or fungi rather than the stomach lining of an unslaughtered calf.

Finally, the Ferments listed are simply the starter cultures used to develop the cheese's tangy flavor and texture. Because there are no added flavorings, colorings, or meat by-products, Brillat-Savarin affiné is safe for a Halal diet.

Nutritional Value

Brillat-Savarin affiné is a rich, decadent cheese, and its nutritional profile reflects that. The '40 % MG' on the label stands for 'Matière Grasse,' indicating that the cheese contains 40% milk fat relative to the dry matter. In reality, this cheese is approximately 30-35% fat by weight.

A single serving is calorie-dense, providing significant energy from saturated fats. It is not a 'diet' food; rather, it is a cheese meant for savoring in small quantities. However, it is very low in carbohydrates and contains zero added sugar, making it acceptable for Keto and low-carb diets, though the high saturated fat content should be monitored for heart health.