Goat Milk
A type of milk distinguished by smaller fat globules than cow’s milk and a mildly pungent, distinctive aroma. It is consumed as a beverage and used to make goat cheese, yogurt, and desserts.
What Is Goat Milk?
Goat milk, produced by milking goats, is one of the most widely consumed types of milk worldwide after cow’s milk. Its fat globules are smaller than those in cow’s milk, giving it a naturally more uniform appearance, and it may be easier for some people to digest.
Its taste is slightly sharper and mildly salty compared with cow’s milk; this difference varies with the goat’s diet and the milk’s fat content. It is not consumed raw; it is sold pasteurized.
Nutritional Values of Goat Milk
Goat milk has nutritional values close to those of cow’s milk; 100 ml provides about 60 kcal of energy, 3.6 g of protein, and 134 mg of calcium. Its fat content is also similar to that of cow’s milk.
What Are the Benefits of Goat Milk?
As a source of calcium and high-quality protein, goat milk can be consumed as part of a balanced diet. Some people report tolerating it more easily than cow’s milk, but it still contains lactose; it is not a complete solution for people with lactose intolerance.
This is general information; goat milk is a food, not a medical treatment. People with a milk-protein allergy should also consider goat milk carefully.
How to Choose Goat Milk
When buying goat milk, check the pasteurization date and make sure the packaging is intact.
- Avoid products that are close to their expiration date.
- Do not buy packaging that is swollen or damaged.
- Products labeled homogenized or pasteurized are safe to consume.
How to Store Goat Milk
Goat milk should be kept in the refrigerator at about 4°C / 39°F and consumed within 3–4 days after opening. Sealed UHT packaging can last for months at room temperature; refrigerate it after opening.
Using Goat Milk in the Kitchen
Goat milk can be consumed as a beverage or used in place of cow’s milk in coffee and tea; it is also used to make yogurt, pudding, and cheese.
How to Make Goat Milk Yogurt
Heat the goat milk until warm, then culture it with a small amount of live-culture yogurt and leave it in a warm place for 6–8 hours. The result is a thinner yogurt than one made with cow’s milk.
Why Does Goat Milk Smell Different?
Short-chain fatty acids in goat milk (caproic, caprylic, and capric acids) are the source of its characteristic, mildly pungent smell; the amounts of these compounds vary with the goat’s diet.
What Recipes Use Goat Milk?
Goat milk is used as an ingredient in recipes such as goat milk yogurt, goat milk pudding, and goat cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is goat milk different from cow’s milk?
Yes. Its fat globules are smaller, its flavor is somewhat sharper, and some people find it easier to digest; however, its lactose content is similar.
Is goat milk lactose-free?
No. Goat milk also contains lactose, so it is not a suitable alternative for people with lactose intolerance.
How should goat milk be stored?
Keep it refrigerated at 4°C / 39°F and consume it within 3–4 days after opening; sealed UHT packaging lasts longer at room temperature.
What cheeses are made from goat milk?
Goat cheese (chèvre) and some regional fresh and aged cheeses are made from goat milk.
Is goat milk suitable for children?
Pasteurized goat milk is generally safe to consume; however, it is not a substitute for cow’s milk in infant formula. Consult a qualified professional about this.