Is Valbreso Feta Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why Valbreso Feta is acceptable, we must look at its core components. The product is composed of PASTEURIZED SHEEP'S MILK, SALT, RENNET, CHEESE CULTURES, and CALCIUM CHLORIDE.

The primary ingredient, PASTEURIZED SHEEP'S MILK, is naturally kosher provided the animal is healthy (a concept known as glatt in stricter interpretations, though standard kosher certification usually accepts milk from kosher animals). The SALT used is typically plain sea salt, which poses no issues. The CHEESE CULTURES are microscopic organisms used to ferment the milk; these are grown on dairy-free mediums, ensuring they do not mix meat and milk.

The most critical ingredient in kosher cheese is the RENNET. Rennet is an enzyme complex that coagulates milk. While animal rennet from non-kosher sources is forbidden, Valbreso typically uses microbial rennet (derived from fungi) or rennet from kosher animals. Given the lack of flags on the label and its general market availability, the rennet used meets kosher standards. Finally, CALCIUM CHLORIDE is a mineral salt used to help the milk set; it is chemically inert and entirely kosher.

Nutritional Value

Valbreso Feta is a nutrient-dense food, primarily due to its high-quality sheep's milk base. It is naturally low in sugar, containing virtually zero carbohydrates, which makes it an excellent choice for those monitoring their glycemic index. A standard serving contains a significant amount of calories—roughly 80 to 100 per ounce—mostly derived from fat.

While the fat content is higher than that of cow's milk feta, it consists of medium-chain fatty acids that are metabolized differently by the body. It is also a rich source of protein and calcium. For those on a calorie-restricted diet, portion control is key, but it fits well within Keto, Carnivore, and Mediterranean diet limits due to its high satiety factor and lack of processed sugars.