Blue cheese cravings on whole30? we’ve got the answer!
What To Know
- It is made from milk, which is not allowed on Whole30, but the mold culture used in the cheesemaking process is considered a form of fermentation.
- If you are not sure whether blue cheese is Whole30 compliant or if you simply want to avoid dairy, there are several other cheeses that you can enjoy on Whole30.
- The question of whether blue cheese is Whole30 compliant is a matter of interpretation.
The Whole30 diet is a restrictive elimination diet that focuses on whole, unprocessed foods. Many people wonder if blue cheese, with its unique flavor and creamy texture, is Whole30 compliant.
The Ingredients of Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is made from cow’s, goat’s, or sheep’s milk. It gets its distinctive blue-green veins from the introduction of Penicillium roqueforti, a mold culture. Other ingredients commonly found in blue cheese include:
- Salt
- Rennet
- Lipase
Whole30 Compliance
According to the Whole30 guidelines, the following ingredients are prohibited:
- Dairy (except for clarified butter)
- Grains
- Legumes
- Soy
- Sugar
- Artificial sweeteners
The Case for Blue Cheese
Blue cheese does not contain any of the prohibited ingredients listed above. It is made from milk, which is not allowed on Whole30, but the mold culture used in the cheesemaking process is considered a form of fermentation. Fermentation is a natural process that breaks down lactose, the sugar found in milk.
The Case Against Blue Cheese
Some people argue that blue cheese should not be considered Whole30 compliant because it is made from milk. The Whole30 guidelines state that dairy is not allowed, with the exception of clarified butter. However, clarified butter is made from butter, which is a dairy product.
The Whole30 Perspective
The Whole30 website does not specifically address the issue of blue cheese. However, it does state that fermented foods are generally allowed on the diet. This suggests that blue cheese may be considered Whole30 compliant.
How to Enjoy Blue Cheese on Whole30
If you are doing Whole30 and want to enjoy blue cheese, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Choose blue cheese that is made with whole milk.
- Avoid blue cheese that contains any added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
- Eat blue cheese in moderation.
Alternative Cheeses for Whole30
If you are not sure whether blue cheese is Whole30 compliant or if you simply want to avoid dairy, there are several other cheeses that you can enjoy on Whole30. These include:
- Clarified butter
- Coconut milk yogurt
- Nut cheese
Final Thoughts
The question of whether blue cheese is Whole30 compliant is a matter of interpretation. The Whole30 guidelines do not specifically address the issue of blue cheese, but they do state that fermented foods are generally allowed on the diet. If you are unsure whether blue cheese is right for you, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Is blue cheese made with mold?
A: Yes, blue cheese is made with Penicillium roqueforti, a mold culture that gives the cheese its distinctive blue-green veins.
Q: Is blue cheese a good source of calcium?
A: Yes, blue cheese is a good source of calcium. One ounce of blue cheese contains about 10% of the daily recommended value for calcium.
Q: Can I eat blue cheese if I am allergic to milk?
A: No, you should not eat blue cheese if you are allergic to milk. Blue cheese is made from milk and contains milk proteins.
