Blog What are the Benefits of Eating Cheese?
14 May, 2024

What are the Benefits of Eating Cheese?

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Cheese is one of the most popular foods in the world — and can you blame it? It’s delicious, versatile, and loaded with nutrients. Made from curdled milk that has been drained and aged, cheese can be used in a variety of different recipes, both savory and sweet. And that’s what makes it so awesome. 


Aside from this, cheese has so many health benefits that make it a great choice for those looking to improve their overall well-being. We’ve listed some of them down for you:


Cheese helps keep your gut healthy 


Cheeses like Gouda, Cheddar, Edam, Gruyère, and Swiss are excellent sources of probiotics that produce short-chain fatty acids, which help promote healthy gut flora. This is essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. It is important to note that the intake of cheese should be raw and organic to ensure that the probiotic content is retained. 


Cheese may help fight cavities 


Your overall oral health is directly linked to your diet. It goes without saying that eating a lot of sugar and processed foods causes an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to tooth decay and cavities. Eating cheese can help combat this. A study from the National Library of Medicine suggests that eating cheese after meals may help reduce the risk of cavities. This is because cheese contains casein, a protein that breaks down in the mouth and releases calcium ions. These ions bind to harmful bacteria and prevent them from sticking to your teeth.


Cheese can help boost your calcium intake 


An average adult needs around 1,000 milligrams of calcium every day. This is because it’s necessary for strong teeth and bones. Eating cheese can help you meet your daily calcium intake requirements. To give one example, a serving of cheddar cheese contains about 300 milligrams of calcium, which is about a third of the daily recommended intake.


Certain cheeses can help keep your heart healthy


The best cheeses for maintaining good heart health are those with lower saturated fat and sodium, two things that are known to cause damage to the heart. Options like Swiss cheese, Mozzarella, Feta, cottage and ricotta cheese are good choices. Additionally, it’s important to opt for low-fat options if you’re at risk for heart disease, according to the Heart Foundation. 


Say cheese to a healthier YOU! 


Cheese is a great food that anyone can enjoy. It is packed with nutrients and vitamins and can be used in many different recipes, which makes it a great addition to any kitchen. Just like anything, moderation is key, and choosing the right cheese makes all the difference. So, the next time you are craving cheese, make sure that you include it in a balanced diet to ensure you’re not overconsuming saturated fat or sodium. It’s also important to get your cheese from a trusted source. 


At Baladna, we offer a wide range of cheeses. Our products are made with the freshest ingredients and are sourced directly from our farm, which is why you can be sure that they are always fresh and delicious. So if you love cheese as much as we do, head to Baladna’s website today and explore the variety of options available.


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Blog 2 Overlooked Tricks on How to Properly Store Cheese
08 October, 2024

2 Overlooked Tricks on How to Properly Store Cheese

Cheese is a beloved delight enjoyed all over the world, gracing the tables of fine dining restaurants and everyday kitchens alike. Its versatility knows no limits as it brings a distinct flavor and delightful texture to all kinds of recipes. Having said that, one must not overlook the importance of storing cheese correctly to preserve its taste, texture, and aroma.With a few simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your cheese stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Read on to learn how to properly store cheese to keep it as fresh as ever. Wrapping it Storing cheese the right way is essential for preserving its flavor and texture. Cheese paper, waxed, or parchment paper are all great options to do just that. Wrapping cheese in these types of paper allows the cheese to “breathe,” meaning that it is protected from the elements while still allowing some air circulation. This helps keep the cheese moist and flavorful.Cheese paper is the ideal option for soft, semi-soft, and semi-hard cheeses. Cheese paper is specifically designed to keep cheese fresh and flavorful. It is made from cotton or linen and is lightly treated with a wax or mineral oil-based substance. Waxed or parchment paper are also suitable for storing soft (like the finest Greek feta cheese), semi-soft, and semi-hard cheeses (like Gouda). They are slightly less ideal than cheese paper, as they are not as breathable, but they still protect the cheese from the environment.No matter which type of paper you choose, it is essential to ensure the cheese is completely covered. It helps keep the cheese from drying out and losing moisture. It is also necessary to change the paper periodically to help keep the cheese in the best condition possible.Storing at the right temperatureTemperature is an essential factor in cheese's flavor and texture. While cold cheese can be enjoyed as a delicacy, cold temperatures may be needed to maintain the taste and texture of cheese. The best temperature for cheese is usually between 40 and 53°F. Cheese should always be stored in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. A refrigerator is an ideal environment for cheese storage, though keeping the temperature between 40°F and 53°F  is necessary. Cheese likes to be kept at a cool, steady temperature. When cheese is stored below 40°F, the fats and proteins begin to separate. It can cause the texture of the cheese to become crumbly and dry. The flavor of the cheese can also become muted and less complex.When cheese is stored at temperatures above 53°F, it can spoil more quickly. It can cause the cheese to become slimy and the flavor to become bitter and unpleasant.Savor cheese and store with care!It is essential to understand the intricacies of proper cheese storage to ensure the long-term satisfaction of cheese lovers. Whether it be the finest Greek feta cheese or classic cheddar, adequate storage is key. With the proper knowledge of the appropriate temperature, humidity, and packaging, cheese lovers can enjoy their favorite cheese for months, if not years, to come.Now that you know how to store cheeses properly, you can confidently buy the finest cheeses out there with Baladna. Our 24,000 cows are in a comfortable and well-conditioned environment, making their cheeses one of the best in the market. Shop now!

Blog Bring Out The Child In You: Qatari-Inspired Dairy Desserts
27 August, 2025

Bring Out The Child In You: Qatari-Inspired Dairy Desserts

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Blog Understanding How Long Cheese Can Stay Out of the Fridge
27 October, 2024

Understanding How Long Cheese Can Stay Out of the Fridge

Cheese is a versatile and delicious ingredient that finds its way into various dishes. It is a staple in many households — from gourmet cuisine to late-night snacks. However, storing cheese properly ensures it remains fresh and tasty. One common question arises: how long can cheese stay out of the refrigerator? We’ve put together a quick guide that will help you understand the factors that affect the shelf life of cheese and how long it can be kept out of the fridge.Factors affecting the shelf life of cheese Several factors can influence how long cheese can stay out of the refrigerator. These factors include the type of cheese, the environment's temperature, and the humidity levels.1. Type of cheeseThere are hundreds of different types of cheese, and they all have other properties that affect their shelf life. For instance, hard cheeses like cheddar cheese, gouda, and parmesan can stay out of the fridge longer than soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and blue cheese. This is because hard cheeses have a lower moisture content, making them less susceptible to bacterial growth.2. TemperatureThe environment's temperature plays a crucial role in how long cheese can stay out of the refrigerator. The warmer the temperature, the quicker bacteria will grow and spoil the cheese. The perfect temperature for storing cheese is between 35°F and 45°F (1.6°C and 7.2°C). However, most cheeses can be safely left out at room temperature (around 70°F or 21°C) for a short period.3. HumidityHumidity is another factor that affects how long cheese can stay out of the fridge. High humidity levels can cause the cheese to spoil faster due to increased microbial growth. On the other hand, low humidity levels can make the cheese dry out and lose its flavor.How long can different types of cheese stay out of the fridge? Now that we know the factors that affect the shelf life of cheese, let's look at how long different types of cheese can stay out of the refrigerator.1. Hard cheesesAs mentioned earlier, hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and parmesan have a lower moisture content, making them less susceptible to bacterial growth. These cheeses can generally be left out at room temperature for up to 8 hours. However, consuming them within 4 hours is best to ensure the best flavor and quality.2. Semi-hard cheesesSemi-hard cheeses like provolone, swiss, and Monterey Jack can be left at room temperature for up to 4 hours. After this time, the risk of bacterial growth increases, and the cheese should be refrigerated.3. Soft cheesesSoft cheeses like brie, camembert, and blue cheese are more perishable and should not be kept outside of the fridge for more than 2 hours. This is because their high moisture content makes them more susceptible to bacterial growth.4. Fresh cheesesFresh cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, and cottage cheese are the most perishable and should never be left out of the fridge for more than 1 hour. These cheeses have a very high moisture content, making them a breeding ground for bacteria.Tips for storing cheese properlyTo ensure your cheese stays fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:1. Wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper instead of plastic wrap. This allows the cheese to breathe and prevents it from becoming too damp.2. Store cheese in a designated cheese drawer or container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level.3. If you're storing multiple types of cheese, keep them separated to prevent cross-contamination and flavor transfer.4. Don't store cheese next to strongly flavored foods like onions or garlic, as it can absorb their flavors.5. When serving cheese at a party or gathering, only put out small portions at a time. This helps prevent the cheese from sitting out too long and becoming unsafe.Get your cheese todayBy understanding the factors that affect the shelf life of cheese and following the above storage tips, you can ensure that your cheese stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Whether enjoying a simple cheese platter or incorporating cheese into your favorite recipes, proper storage and handling will help you maximize your cheese experience and minimize waste. If you’re looking for some high-quality cheese, Baladna is here for you. Our range of authentic, fresh, and quality dairy products reflects our dedication to animal welfare and sustainability. To see our variety of locally-produced options, check out our products today and see our ongoing efforts to create a more sustainable and self-reliant future in food production.

Blog 5 Nutritional Benefits of Sour Cream
13 May, 2024

5 Nutritional Benefits of Sour Cream

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