What does goat cheese actually contain?
A composition that varies depending on the type of cheese
Goat cheese is made from goat milk, lactic cultures, rennet or a microbial coagulant, and salt, depending on the recipe. Once made into cheese, it consists mainly of water, protein and fat, as well as minerals such as calcium, lactose and vitamins, particularly vitamin B2.
Its composition varies depending on the type of cheese, its recipe, how long it has been ripened and its water content. Fat, calcium, lactose and salt levels also vary from one product to another.
Whether fresh, ripened or creamy, every goat milk product has its own character on the plate and its own nutritional profile.
How should you read a cheese nutrition label?
The table on the packaging shows the nutritional values per 100 g. This makes products easier to compare, but it does not always reflect the amount actually eaten. To find out what your meal really provides, these figures need to be adjusted to the portion served.
Does goat cheese provide protein?
Yes, goat cheese provides protein, but the amount varies depending on the type of product. A goat cheese log, fresh goat cheese, and others goats cheeses do not contain the same proportions.
What role does protein play in the diet?
Protein contributes, among other things, to the maintenance of muscle mass and normal bones. It is also a component of many tissues in the body. Requirements vary depending on age, level of physical activity and individual circumstances.
Protein can come from dairy products as well as eggs, fish, meat, pulses and nuts.
Do all goat cheeses contain the same amount of protein?
No. Ripened cheeses, which contain less water, generally have a higher concentration of protein than fresh products or goat milk yogurts.
For example, 100g of Soignon Spreadable goat cheese Pyramid Plain, contains 10 g of protein, while the Soignon Ripened goat log contains 20 g of protein per 100 g of cheese.
Is goat cheese a source of calcium?
Yes, goat cheese can contribute to calcium intake, although the amount varies from one product to another. A good reason to enjoy a little variety!
What is the role of calcium?
Calcium contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth. It also contributes to normal muscle function. According to ANSES (French public authority for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety), dairy products are among the main dietary sources of calcium, alongside pulses, nuts, certain vegetables and some types of water.
ANSES sets the population reference intake for calcium at 950 mg for a healthy adult over the age of 25. This value increases at certain stages of life, particularly during adolescence and for people over the age of 55.
Why do calcium levels vary between cheeses?
Not all cheeses made from goat milk provide the same amount of calcium. Ripening, the recipe and water content all influence their composition. A ripened goat cheese log often has a higher concentration of nutrients than a fresher product with a higher water content.
The Ripened goat log, 150g, for example, contains 130 mg of calcium per 100 g. This nutritional value applies only to this particular product. To find out how much your portion provides, always check the label of the cheese you have chosen.
What should you know about vitamin B2?
What role does vitamin B2 play in the body?
Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, contributes to the body’s normal functioning. In particular, it contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, the maintenance of normal skin and mucous membranes, and the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Like other vitamins, it needs to be supplied regularly through the diet.
Which goat milk products can provide vitamin B2?
Good news for goat cheese lovers: goat cheeses can contribute to vitamin B2 intake, as this vitamin occurs naturally in dairy products. However, the amount varies depending on the product and how it is made. Soignon goat cheese log, for example, is rich in vitamins B2 and B9.
That adds another nutritional dimension to the pleasure of enjoying a generous slice of goat cheese on bread, in a salad or lightly melted over vegetables.
How can goat cheese be included in a balanced diet?
Pair it with vegetables, fibre and starchy foods
Goat cheese is right at home on a colourful plate. A few slices on wholegrain toast, some cubes in a crunchy salad or a melting portion served with roasted vegetables are all you need for a delicious meal.
For a balanced plate, serve goat cheese alongside vegetables, whole grains or pulses. A few roasted tomatoes, lentils, bulgur or a generous slice of wholegrain bread are enough to create a satisfying, flavourful meal.
Adjust the portion to the rest of the meal
A portion of cheese is around 30 g. This amount should still be adjusted according to the rest of the menu: a lentil salad with goat cheese is not put together in the same way as a meal that already contains meat, eggs or a rich sauce.
Three examples of simple, delicious meals
Goat cheese works well in countless combinations, from the simplest to the most indulgent. With a few good ingredients and some contrast in texture, it can easily become the finishing touch that makes all the difference on the plate.
- Wholegrain toast with fresh goat cheese: toast a slice of wholegrain bread, add fresh goat cheese, roasted tomatoes, a few rocket leaves and chopped walnuts. Serve with a green salad and a piece of seasonal fruit.
- Lentil salad with goat cheese log: combine lentils, grated carrots, cucumber, baby leaves and a few slices of goat cheese log. A drizzle of walnut oil and a little vinegar are all you need for the dressing.
- Roasted vegetables with melting goat cheese: prepare a plate of roasted courgettes, peppers and aubergines, served with bulgur or quinoa. Add a portion of goat cheese towards the end of cooking so that it softens slightly, then finish with a few fresh herbs.
Key things to remember about what goat cheese provides
Whether fresh, creamy or more fully ripened, goat cheese offers more than taste alone. Depending on the product chosen, it can also contribute to intakes of protein, calcium or vitamin B2.
The main thing is to enjoy this variety: fresh goat cheese to add creaminess to toast, a few slices of goat cheese log in a salad, or a portion lightly melted over roasted vegetables. All are ways to combine enjoyment and variety on the plate.
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Your health questions
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Your health questions
Contrary to popular belief, lactose intolerance and dairy products can go hand in hand. Cutting dairy products out of your diet risks depriving yourself of the essential nutrients that they provide, such as calcium. Most people who are lactose intolerant can consume dairy products as long as they follow simply dietary advice, and Soignon will show you the way ahead.

Our tasting tips
Are your friends already cheese lovers or willing to explore? Why not make your next evening together an all-cheese affair, from the starter to the dessert? Besides the undeniable advantage of requiring zero preparation, this cheese-centered meal promises to be a friendly and tasty evening! Discover our tips for preparing a totally goat cheese party with friends.
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