People are shocked to learn that Parmesan cheese isn’t vegetarian due to an ingredient used in its production.
Many vegetarians include cheese in their diets due to its high protein content, which can serve as an alternative to meat.
However, recent revelations about certain cheeses have left some vegetarians surprised and dismayed.
Parmesan cheese, a popular choice among cheese lovers. However, many pointed out not to be as vegetarian-friendly as many might assume.
The vegetarian cheese dilemma
Vegetarians often rely on cheese for its protein and flavor.
However, not all cheeses meet vegetarian standards, and cheese, in particular, has been a source of confusion.
The issue lies in the production process of Parmesan cheese. It involves an ingredient that makes it unsuitable for strict vegetarians.
Why Parmesan Cheese isn’t vegetarian
Traditional Parmesan cheese is made using an ingredient called rennet.
Rennet is an enzyme derived from the stomach linings of young cows.
This animal-derived ingredient is crucial in the cheese-making process, helping to coagulate the milk and form curds.
As a result, Parmesan cheese is not considered vegetarian by those who avoid all animal products.
Social media reactions
On Reddit, a user named @yisraelmofo shared their discovery that Parmesan cheese is not suitable for vegetarians.
They said: “I just found out Parmesan cheese isn’t vegetarian. I work at an Italian restaurant and eat it all the time. Guess it’s time to cut it out”
Many vegetarians have been shocked to learn that this cheese is not suitable for their diet.
This revelation has sparked conversations about the importance of checking ingredients. It has also highlighted the need to understand food production processes.
Many users admitted that they completely lost their minds over this revelation.
One person said: Most cheese isnt technically vegetarian because it’s made with rennet. You have to look for the special ones made with vegetarian rennet.
A second wrote: Also a lot of Pesto is made with Parmesan so I don’t eat that when I’m eating out anymore.
While a third commented: I take a magnifying glass with me when shopping to read the ingredients. Haha.
Another added: Not sure where in the world you are but vegetarian parmesan is everywhere in europe. No biggy to adapt.
For vegetarians who love cheese, it’s important to be aware of what goes into their food.
Parmesan cheese, due to its use of animal-derived rennet, does not align with vegetarian principles.
Additionally, being informed about such ingredients helps ensure that dietary choices align with lifestyle preferences.
So, Always check labels and opt for cheeses that use microbial or vegetable rennet if you want to avoid animal products.