What is the Difference Between Cheese and Milk?

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Cheese and milk are both dairy products, but they differ in terms of taste, preparation, nature, and nutrition. Cheese is produced from milk, and the nutritional value of cheese depends on its type and production process. Here are the main differences between cheese and milk:

  • Taste: Cheese has a variety of tastes, depending on its type and processing methods, while milk has a mild taste.
  • Preparation: Cheese is made through a process that involves the curdling of milk, which is then collected, salted, and dried to form cheese. Milk, on the other hand, goes through a pasteurizing process before it can be sold commercially.
  • Nutrition: Cheese contains more protein and fat compared to milk. For example, one 2 oz. serving of cheddar cheese contains 114 calories, 7 grams of protein, and 9 grams of fat. Milk has 13 grams of carbohydrates, 12 grams of sugar, and 301 mg of calcium per one cup of whole milk.
  • Lactose: Cheese has lower lactose content compared to milk, making it more tolerable for lactose intolerant individuals.

Cheese and milk are used in different types of food preparations. Milk is used in preparing food items such as puddings, custards, mousses, and soups, while cheese is a main ingredient in lasagna, pizza, casseroles, and more.

Comparative Table: Cheese vs Milk

Here is a table comparing the differences between cheese and milk:

Feature Milk Cheese
Production Pasteurized and may be fortified with vitamins Processed through curdling and solidifying
Nutrition One cup of whole milk contains 156 calories, 8 g of protein, 13 g of One 2 oz. serving of cheddar cheese contains 114 calories,
carbohydrates, 12 g of sugar, 8 g of fat and 301 mg of calcium 76 calories, 4.42g of fat, and 6.85g of protein
Calories 42 calories per 100g 404 calories per 100g
Carbohydrates 4.99g of carbs per 100g 3.09g of carbs per 100g
Lactose 4.99g of lactose per 100g (most of its carbohydrate content) Contains lactose, but less than milk
Protein Less protein compared to cheese Higher protein content than milk

Milk is produced from cows, sheep, or goats and goes through a pasteurizing process before being sold commercially. Cheese, on the other hand, is derived from milk and is produced through a process involving heating, adding acids, and solidifying the milk's protein, resulting in curds. The nutritional value of milk and cheese depends on their type and processing, with cheese generally having a higher calorie and protein content compared to milk.