Cheese is rich in calcium. Six ounces of Cheddar cheese supply as much calcium and phosphorus as a whole quart of milk.
One of the important mineral found in cheese is calcium. This mineral is essential for healthy teeth and bones and clotting of the blood. Calcium also needed for the smooth functioning of nerves and muscles and it is used for muscle cramps and arching bones.
Phosphorus produces energy for the cells and regulates the activity of proteins. It is necessary for the structure of bones and teeth.
In cheese making calcium is to assist in forming a firm curd and that traps fat and will hold up well to string, pressing and stretching of the curd.
100g of cheese can supply the daily calcium requirement of an average adult, plus nearly 50% of the phosphorus requirement, while the bioavailability is good compared with other foods.
Cheese also contains magnesium, zinc, selenium and folate.
The mineral content of cheese is influenced by the addition of salt, optional ingredients, the method of coagulation, the treatment of the curd and resulting acidity.
Minerals in cheese
