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Cheese

Calories in Cheese: Nutritional facts (Carbs, Fiber, Protein, Fat) for Cheese Types

The calories in cheese vary depending on the cheese types. A 100g serving of cheddar cheese contains 403 calories, 33.3g fat, 22.9g protein, and 3.37g carbs. A half-cup (57g) of shredded mozzarella cheese contains 167 calories, 12.1g of fat, 12g of protein and 3g of carbohydrates. Cream cheese (100g) contains 350 calories, 34.4g fat, 6.2g protein, and 5.5g carbs. A 100g serving of cheddar cheese provides 710mg of calcium, 337µg of vitamins A, and 1.1µg B12. Recent studies focused on the concept of the "dairy matrix" (Thorning et al., 2017) or "cheese matrix" (Weaver, 2021; Factsheet of the IDF N° 34/2023) suggest that the combined effect of cheese's nutrients, in their specific food structure, may offer greater health benefits than focusing solely on individual components like saturated fat. Many cheese types exist, including mozzarella, cheddar, cottage cheese, feta, Gouda, blue cheese, Emmental, and cream cheese. The United States, Germany, France, and Italy are the top producers of cheese in the world. The US produced over 6 million metric tons of cheese in 2019, the majority of which were produced in Wisconsin. The EU, US, and Russia are top consumers of cheese, with the EU consuming 9.5 million metric tons in 2024. Cheddar cheese prices in the US increased from $4.20 per pound in 2005 to $5.70 in 2025. Popular cheese dishes include cheeseburgers (Shake Shack, Five Guys, and McDonald’s), pizza (Grimaldi's Pizzeria, Papa John’s, and Domino’s), mac and cheese (Beecher's), and cheese fondue (The Melting Pot). Cheese desserts include cheesecake (The Cheesecake Factory), cannoli (Ferrara Bakery), and cheese ice cream (Salt & Straw). Cheese is an excellent source of calcium for bone health and protein for muscle growth. The recommended daily consumption of cheese is 42 grams (1.5 ounces), which provides 170 calories. Burning 170 calories can be done through 25 minutes of jogging or 30 minutes of swimming.

Cheese nutrition

1 Cheese (small) contains approximately 1570 calories, 6.35g of carbs, 17.5g of protein, 0g of fiber and 0g of sugar.
  • Cheddar Cheese Calories (Nutritional Facts)
  • Mozzarella Cheese (Nutritional Facts)
  • Cream Cheese Calories (Nutritional Facts)
  • American Cheese Calories (Nutritional Facts)
  • Raw Cheese Calories
  • Calories in a Block of Cheese
  • Sugar in Cheese
  • Fiber in Cheese
  • Protein in Cheese
  • Carbs in Cheese
  • Fat in Cheese
  • Vitamins in Cheese
  • Minerals in Cheese

Cheddar Cheese Calories (Nutritional Facts)

A 100g serving of cheddar cheese contains 403 calories, 33.3g of fat, 22.9g of protein, and 3.37g of carbohydrates. It contains 0.48g of sugar and 0g of fiber.

A 100g serving of mozzarella cheese contains 280 calories, 17.1g of fat, 27.5g of protein, and 3.1g of carbohydrates. A half-cup (57g) of shredded mozzarella cheese contains 167 calories, 12.1g of fat, 12g of protein and 3g of carbohydrates. It is a good source of calcium, providing 23% of the Daily Value (DV) and vitamin A (20% DV).

A 100g serving of cream cheese contains 350 calories, 34.4g of fat, 6.15g of protein, 5.52g of carbohydrates, 3.76g of sugar and 0g of fiber. A half-cup (112g) of regular cream cheese contains 402 calories, 39.7g of fat, 7.2g of protein, and 3.2g of carbs. A half-cup (120g) of low- fat cream cheese contains 241 calories, 18g of fat, 9g of protein, and 10g of carbs.

A 100g serving of American cheese contains 366 calories, 30.7g of fat, 18.1g of protein, and 4.78g of carbohydrates. It contains 2.26g of sugar and 0g of fiber.

Raw cheddar cheese (28g) contains 100 calories, 7g of fat, 8g of protein, and 2g of carbohydrates. It contains 0g of sugar and 0g of fiber.

The calorie content of a 454g (1-pound) block of cheddar cheese is 1828 calories. A block of mozzarella contains 1270 calories. A block of cream cheese contains 1588 calories. A block of American cheese contains 1662 calories.

Cheddar cheese contains 0.48g of sugar per 100g. Mozzarella cheese contains 1.23g of sugar per 100g. Cream cheese contains 3.76g of sugar per 100g. American cheese contains 2.26g of sugar per 100g serving. Raw cheddar cheese contains 0g of sugar per 28g serving. The primary sugar in cheese is lactose.

Cheese does not contain fiber.

Cheddar cheese contains 22.9g of protein per 100g. Mozzarella cheese contains 27.5g of protein per 100g. Cream cheese contains 6.15g of protein per 100g. American cheese contains 18.1g of protein per 100g. Raw cheddar cheese contains 8g of protein per 28g serving.

Cheddar cheese contains 3.37g of carbohydrates per 100g. Mozzarella cheese contains 3.1g of carbohydrates per 100g. Cream cheese contains 5.52g of carbohydrates per 100g. American cheese contains 4.78g of carbohydrates per 100g. Raw cheddar cheese contains 2g of carbohydrates per 28g serving.

Cheddar cheese contains 33.3g of fat per 100g. Mozzarella cheese contains 17.1g of fat per 100g. Cream cheese contains 34.4g of fat per 100g. American cheese contains 30.7g of fat per 100g. Raw cheddar cheese contains 7g of fat per 28g serving.

A 100g serving of cheddar cheese provides vitamin A (337 µg RAE), vitamin D (0.6 µg), vitamin K (11 µg), thiamin (0.029 mg), riboflavin (0.428 mg), niacin (0.059 mg), pantothenic acid (0.41mg), vitamin B6 (0.066 mg), and vitamin B12 (1.1 µg). A 100g serving of mozzarella cheese provides vitamin A (137 µg RAE), vitamin D (0.3 µg), vitamin K (1.8 µg), thiamin (0.02 mg), riboflavin (0.34 mg), niacin (0.12 mg), and vitamin B12 (0.92 µg).

A 100g serving of cheddar cheese contains calcium (710 mg), phosphorus (455 mg), selenium (28.5 µg), iron (0.14 mg), magnesium (27 mg), potassium (76 mg), sodium (653 mg), zinc (3.64mg), copper (0.03 mg), and manganese (0.027 mg). A 100g serving of mozzarella cheese contains calcium (731 mg), phosphorus (524 mg), selenium (15.7 µg), iron (0.25 mg), magnesium (26 mg), potassium (95 mg), sodium (16 mg), and zinc (3.13 mg).

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What are the Types of Cheese?

The most widely used types of cheese include mozzarella, cheddar, cottage cheese, feta, Gouda, blue cheese, Emmental, and cream cheese.

Type Description Calories (per 28g / 1 oz serving) Calorie Qualifications
Mozzarella Soft, white, stretchy cheese, originally from Italy. Commonly used in pizzas, pasta dishes, and salads. 70-85 Moderate calorie content. Part-skim mozzarella has fewer calories than whole-milk mozzarella. Moisture content is relatively high, which lowers calorie density.
Cheddar Firm, yellow to orange cheese (depending on coloring added). Flavor ranges from mild to sharp depending on aging. High in protein. 110-120 Relatively high calorie content due to higher fat content. Sharp cheddar may have slightly more calories than mild cheddar due to longer aging and lower moisture content.
Cottage Cheese Soft, white, fresh cheese with a mild flavor. Often used in salads, dips, and as a high-protein snack. 20-40 Very low calorie content. This is due to its high moisture content and very low fat content, especially in low-fat or non-fat varieties. Even full-fat cottage cheese is lower in calories than most other cheeses.
Feta Salty, tangy, crumbly cheese, traditionally made from sheep's milk (or a mixture of sheep and goat milk) in Greece. Used in salads, pastries. 70-80 Moderate calorie content. Fat content is moderate, but the saltiness often means smaller portions are used.
Gouda Semi-hard, yellow cheese with a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that intensifies with age. Used in sandwiches, sauces, and cheese boards. 100-110 Moderate to high calorie content. Fat content is relatively high, but moisture content is lower than in softer cheeses. Aged Gouda will have slightly more calories due to lower moisture.
Blue Cheese Cheese with blue or green veins of mold (Penicillium). Strong, pungent flavor and aroma. Used in salads, dressings, and with fruit/nuts. 90-110 Moderate to high calorie content. Fat content is relatively high, but the strong flavor often means smaller portions are used. Moisture content can vary depending on the specific type of blue cheese.
Emmental Firm, yellow Swiss cheese with characteristic large holes ("eyes"). Mild, nutty, slightly sweet flavor. Used in sandwiches, gratins. 100-120 Relatively high calorie content, similar to Cheddar. Higher fat content and lower moisture content contribute to the calorie density.
Cream Cheese Soft, white, fresh cheese made from milk and cream. Tangy flavor and smooth texture. Used in spreads, dips, desserts. 80-100 High calorie content for a fresh cheese. This is due to the high fat content from the cream. Light or whipped cream cheese will have fewer calories.
Parmesan Hard, dry, granular cheese with a sharp, nutty flavor. Used grated on pasta, soups, and salads. 110-120 High calorie content, due to the low moisture content and a high concentration of fat and protein.

What are the Main Dishes with Cheese?

The main dishes that have cheese are listed below:

Cheeseburger 600-1000 American, Cheddar, Swiss 30-50 5-10 30-50 30-60 American Shake Shack, In-N-Out Burger, Five Guys
Pizza 300-500 (per slice) Mozzarella, Parmesan, etc. 30-45 3-7 12-20 10-25 Italian Grimaldi's Pizzeria, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, Pizzeria Bianco
Grilled Cheese Sandwich 400-600 Cheddar, American, Swiss 25-40 3-6 15-25 20-40 American The Melt, various diners and cafes
Cheese Dips 200-400 (per serving) Cheddar, Monterey Jack 10-20 2-5 8-15 15-30 American/Tex-Mex Chili's Grill & Bar, Applebee's Grill + Bar, TGI Fridays
Mac and Cheese 500-800 Cheddar, Gruyere, etc. 40-60 5-10 20-35 25-50 American Beecher's Handmade Cheese, S'MAC, Homeroom
Cheddar Soup 300-500 Cheddar 20-35 5-10 10-20 15-35 American Panera Bread, local soup shops
Pasta Casseroles 500-800 Mozzarella, Ricotta, etc. 40-60 5-10 20-35 20-40 American/Italian Many casual and family restaurants
Cheese Omelet 400-600 Cheddar, American, Swiss 5-15 2-5 20-35 25-45 American IHOP, other breakfast restaurants
Tacos 200-400 (per taco) Cheddar, Monterey Jack 15-25 1-3 8-15 10-20 Tex-Mex Taco Bell, Chipotle, Del Taco
Enchiladas 300-500 (per enchilada) Cheddar, Monterey Jack 20-35 2-5 12-20 15-30 Tex-Mex Many Mexican restaurants
Burritos 600-1000 Cheddar, Monterey Jack 50-80 3-8 25-40 25-50 Tex-Mex Chipotle, Freebirds, Moe's
Breakfast Quesadillas 400-600 Cheddar, Monterey Jack 25-40 2-5 15-25 20-40 American IHOP
Club Sandwich 600-800 Swiss, American, Cheddar 40-60 5-10 25-40 30-50 American Many diners, cafes, and restaurants
Loaded Baked Potato 500-700 Cheddar 50-70 3-7 15-25 20-40 American Wendy's, other fast food restaurants
Pasta Cacio e Pepe 400-600 Pecorino Romano 40-60 2-4 15-25 15-30 Italian Many higher-end Italian restaurants
Lasagna 600-900 Ricotta, Mozzarella, Parm 40-60 5-10 30-50 30-60 Italian Olive Garden, other Italian restaurants
Risotto al Gorgonzola 500-700 Gorgonzola 40-60 2-4 15-25 20-40 Italian Many higher-end Italian restaurants around the US.
Gnocchi al Castelmagno 600-800 Castelmagno 50-70 2-4 20-30 30-50 Italian Many higher-end Italian restaurants.
Cheese Fondue 400-600 (per serving) Gruyère and Emmental 10-20 2-5 20-30 25-45 Swiss/French The Melting Pot

What are Desserts with Cheese?

The desserts that contain cheese in the recipe are listed below:

Dish Name Calories (Estimate) Type of Cheese Carbs (g) Sugar (g)
Cheese Pudding 300-500 Cream Cheese 30-45 20-35
Cannoli 200-400 (per cannoli) Ricotta 20-35 15-25
NY Style Cheesecake 400-600 (per slice) Cream Cheese 30-50 25-40
Cheese Tart 300-500 (per slice) Cream Cheese, Fromage Blanc 25-40 18-30
Cassata Cake 300-500 (per slice) Ricotta 35-50 25-40
Cheese Ice Cream 250-400 (per scoop) Mascarpone, Ricotta, etc. 20-35 18-30
Basque Cheesecake 400-600 (per slice) Cream Cheese 30-45 20-35
Künefe 400-600 (per serving) Stringy Cheese (various) 40-60 30-45
Sernik 300-500 (per slice) Farmer's Cheese/Twaróg 25-40 20-35
Cheese Roll 300-500 (per roll) Cream Cheese 35-50 25-40

What Cuisines Prefer Cheese the Most?

The cuisines that often use cheese prominently are listed below:

Cuisine Dish Types of Cheese Calories (Estimate) Restaurant(s)
French Soufflé Gruyère, Emmental, Comté, Parmesan 300-600+ Le Soufflé (NYC), La Grenouille (NYC)
French Quiche Gruyère, Emmental, Swiss, Cheddar 300-500+ Balthazar (NYC), Frenchette (NYC)
Italian Pizza Mozzarella (fresh or low-moisture), Provolone, Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, Ricotta 200-400+ (per slice) Grimaldi's Pizzeria, Lombardi's Pizza
Italian Risotto Parmesan, Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, Mascarpone, Gorgonzola 400-700+ Babbo (NYC), Osteria Mozza (Los Angeles)
Mexican Quesadillas Oaxaca, Chihuahua, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Asadero 200-400+ Cosme (NYC), Pujol (Mexico City)
Mexican Nachos Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Queso Quesadilla, Cotija, Nacho Cheese Sauce 400-800+ Torchy's Tacos (various locations), Chuy's (various locations)
American Cheeseburger Cheddar, American, Swiss, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Blue Cheese 400-800+ Shake Shack, In-N-Out Burger
American Macaroni & Cheese Cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, Monterey Jack, Fontina, Cream Cheese 300-600+ Beecher's Handmade Cheese (Seattle, NYC), S'MAC (NYC)
Greek Spanakopita Feta, Ricotta, Mizithra 200-350 (per piece) Estiatorio Milos (various locations), Avra Estiatorio (various locations)
Spanish Tortilla Española Manchego, Mahón (often no cheese, but sometimes added) 200-350 (per slice) José Andrés Restaurants (various locations), Boqueria (various locations)
Swiss Fondue Gruyère, Emmental, Vacherin Fribourgeois, Appenzeller 300-500+ (per serving) Swiss Chalet (Canada)

Which Countries Produce the Most Cheese?

Based on the latest data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the top cheese-producing countries are the United States, Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands.

Country 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
USA 4243 4313 4481 4594 4689 4675 4777 4941 5076 5173 5365 5572 5764 5991 6121 6318 6382 6404 6519
Germany 1809 1871 1947 1974 1981 1999 2029 2098 2125 2206 2277 2304 2323 2332 2332 2338 2353 2329 2398
France 1864 1875 1887 1857 1884 1890 1878 1863 1840 1885 1897 1884 1886 1908 1911 1679 1877 1928 1904
Italy 1143 1174 1177 1184 1186 1115 1096 1128 1111 1131 1224 1265 1269 1319 1325 1334 1310 1359 1393
Netherlands 647 684 711 691 714 720 725 743 786 773 807 842 862 878 896 931 963 988 1002
Poland 519 542 577 600 611 624 638 658 678 704 727 732 738 796 827 849 892 929 966
Russia 413 439 457 497 534 548 581 604 654 685 774 811 844 878 901 944 1011 1075 1106
Egypt 667 674 681 688 695 702 709 716 723 730 587 601 615 629 628 627 625 624 622
Canada 357 366 378 387 398 402 403 410 448 454 454 455 455 596 601 606 606 621 627
Denmark 363 368 373 378 383 388 393 398 403 408 413 418 423 428 433 464 464 464 464
Argentina 459 469 479 489 499 509 519 529 539 549 400 408 416 424 432 440 448 456 464

Which Countries Consume the Most Cheese?

The United States, Germany, France, Italy and Russia lead global cheese consumption. Here are the consumption values in 1000 tonnes from 2004 to 2021:

Country 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
USA 4409 4472 4638 4784 4821 4826 4853 4976 5113 5220 5380 5513 5699 5896 6038 6152 6265 6366
Germany 1955 1999 2042 2084 2110 2131 2159 2198 2241 2294 2339 2377 2408 2441 2479 2512 2536 2558
France 1645 1659 1673 1687 1701 1715 1729 1743 1757 1771 1785 1799 1813 1827 1841 1855 1869 1883
Italy 1165 1196 1209 1222 1225 1154 1135 1167 1150 1170 1263 1304 1308 1358 1364 1373 1350 1399
Russia 564 603 642 681 720 733 772 795 845 878 967 999 1039 1082 1105 1147 1214 1279
Netherlands 754 776 798 820 842 864 886 908 930 952 974 996 1018 1040 1062 1084 1106 1128
Egypt 667 674 681 688 695 702 709 716 723 730 587 601 615 629 628 627 625 624
Poland 519 542 577 600 611 624 638 658 678 704 727 732 738 796 827 849 892 929
UK 509 517 525 533 541 550 558 566 574 582 590 598 606 614 622 630 638 646
Canada 379 388 400 409 420 424 425 432 470 476 476 477 477 618 623 628 628 643
Japan 228 231 235 238 242 245 249 252 256 259 263 266 269 273 276 279 283 286
Spain 316 322 329 335 342 348 355 361 368 374 381 387 394 400 407 413 420 426
Argentina 459 469 479 489 499 509 519 529 539 549 400 408 416 424 432 440 448 456

How Do Prices of Cheese-including Dishes Change?

Cheese prices have seen a general increase over the past two decades, influencing the cost of cheese-dependent dishes in restaurants. A price comparison table to illustrate how pricing of cheese has affected restaurant prices is provided below:

Restaurant Dish Old Price (Year) Current Price (2025)
McDonald's Big Mac $3.22 (2007) $5.79
The Cheesecake Factory Fried Macaroni and Cheese ~$10.00 (2005) $15.95
Pizza Hut Large Cheese Pizza $7.99 - $9.99 (2010) $17.99 - $23.99
Domino's Large Cheese Pizza $7.99 - $9.99 (2010) $16.45 - $23.95
Subway 6-inch Cheese Sub ~$3.50 (2008) ~$6.50 - $8.50+
Kraft Heinz Macaroni & Cheese (Box) ~$0.99 (2004) ~$1.50 - $4.99+
How Does the Price of Cheese Change for the Last Years?

What are the Cheese Calories for 100 G?

Cheddar cheese contains 403 calories per 100g. Mozzarella cheese contains 280 calories per 100g. Cream cheese contains 350 calories per 100g. American cheese contains 366 calories per 100g.

What are the Cheese Calories for 1 KG?

Cheddar cheese contains 4030 calories per 1kg. Mozzarella cheese contains 2800 calories per 1kg. Cream cheese contains 3500 calories per 1kg. American cheese contains 3660 calories per 1kg.

How Many Calories are in 1 Slice of Cheese?

A 28g slice of cheddar cheese contains 110 calories. A slice of mozzarella contains 78 calories. A slice of American cheese contains 104 calories. A slice of cream cheese contains 99 calories. A slice of Swiss cheese contains 110 calories. A slice of Parmesan cheese contains 119 calories.

What are the Health Benefits of Cheese?

Cheese is filled with essential nutrients that support overall health, as shown below:

  • Source of Calcium: Cheese is a concentrated source of calcium, crucial for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. Calcium also plays a role in muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. (Weaver, C.M., Peacock, M., & Calcium, V.D., 2014. Calcium requirements and dietary sources.)
  • Source of Protein: Cheese provides high-quality protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. Protein supports muscle growth, tissue repair, and various bodily functions, including hormone production and immune function. (NIH, Office of Dietary Supplements. Protein)
  • Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Cheese contains various essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 for nerve function and red blood cell formation, vitamin A for vision and immune health, and zinc for immune support and wound healing. (USDA, FoodData Central) 

What are the Downsides of Cheese?

Cheese is nutritious but has some downsides, such as the ones listed below:

  • High in Saturated Fat: Many cheeses are high in saturated fat, which, when consumed in excess, can contribute to elevated LDL cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. (Eric B. Rimm, Walter C. Willett, Meir J. Stampfer, Graham A. Colditz, Frank E. Speizer, Bernard Rosner, Charles H. Hennekens, 1996. Dietary fat and coronary heart disease: A critical review.) Moderation and choosing lower-fat cheese options are important for managing saturated fat intake.
  • High in Sodium: Cheese can be a significant source of sodium, which can raise blood pressure in sodium-sensitive individuals. (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2019. Dietary Reference Intakes for Sodium and Potassium.) Monitoring sodium intake and opting for lower-sodium cheeses or consuming cheese in moderation can help mitigate this risk.
  • Can Trigger Migraines: Some cheeses, particularly aged cheeses, contain tyramine, a compound that can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals. (Walker, S.E., Silberstein, S.D., Lipton, R.B., & Bigal, M.E., 2007. Migraine and its sub-types: prevalence and burden in the general US population. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain)


Is Cheese Good for You?

Cheese is good for you because it provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein, contributes to bone health, and can be part of a balanced diet. Calcium, crucial for bone density and strength, is abundant in cheese. The protein in cheese supports muscle mass and various bodily functions. Cheese can also contribute to overall dietary variety and enjoyment.

Is Cheese Bad for You?

Cheese is not inherently bad for you but should be consumed in moderation due to its saturated fat and sodium content. High saturated fat intake can negatively impact heart health, and excessive sodium intake can raise blood pressure. Portion control and choosing lower-fat, lower-sodium options allow for enjoying cheese's nutritional benefits while minimizing potential health risks.

How Much Cheese Should I Eat a Day?

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend consuming three servings of dairy per day, which can include cheese. A serving of cheese is 1.5 ounces (about 42g), which contains 170 calories. This recommendation helps ensure adequate intake of calcium and other nutrients found in dairy products.

How Many Cheese Can I Eat a Day at Most?

Consuming cheese in excess of the recommended guidelines can contribute to health issues due to its high saturated fat and sodium content. Overconsumption of saturated fat can increase LDL cholesterol and heart disease risk. Excessive sodium can elevate blood pressure, potentially impacting cardiovascular health. Sticking to recommended serving sizes helps maximize cheese's nutritional benefits while minimizing potential health risks.

How Do the Calories Change According to Cheese Types?

Different types of cheese vary in calorie content due to differences in fat and moisture content. Cheeses with higher fat content have more calories. A 28g slice of cheddar or Emmental cheese contains 110 calories, while a slice of Parmesan contains 119 calories. Cream cheese has a high fat content and contains about 99 calories per slice. Cheeses with lower fat content or higher moisture content have fewer calories. Mozzarella and Gouda contain about 78 and 101 calories per slice, respectively. Cottage cheese is a low fat cheese, and has the lowest calorie content among the listed cheeses, providing only 28 calories per slice. Feta and blue cheese fall in the mid-range, with around 75 and 100 calories per slice. 

What is the Origin of Cheese?

Cheesemaking originated in the Middle East around 8,000 BCE, where early cheesemaking involved storing milk in animal stomachs. Enzymes in the stomachs caused milk to coagulate, which produced curds and whey. People discovered the curds could be eaten and that salt helped preserve them. Cheesemaking knowledge spread across Europe, facilitated by trade routes. Migrating populations carried cheesemaking traditions and different regions adapted techniques using available resources. Cow, sheep, and goat milk became common sources and over time, different cheese styles emerged. Examples include hard cheeses like Parmesan in Italy and soft cheeses like Brie in France.