Aged cheese: a healthy choice?

By: Henri Willig
19 apr 2024
± 2 minuten

As a cheese lover, you are probably familiar with the classic choices: young cheese, mature cheese and, of course, old cheese. But is old cheese actually a healthy choice? Let's take a closer look at the nutritional value, comparison with young cheese, the production process and the possible health benefits of aged cheese.

Nutrients in aged cheese

Aged cheese is known for its intense flavour, but also for its nutritional value. Aged cheese contains essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, vitamin B12 and phosphorus. These nutrients all play an important role in maintaining good health. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues. Calcium, in turn, is important for strong bones and teeth.

Comparison between old cheese and young cheese

An interesting aspect to consider is how old cheese compares to young cheese in terms of nutritional value. In general, old cheese contains slightly more fat and salt than young cheese. This is because old cheese has a longer maturation period, which reduces the moisture content and intensifies the flavour. The higher fat content does not necessarily mean that old cheese is unhealthier. In fact, fats are also an important source of energy and can contribute to a balanced diet. As long as, as with other foods, you don't go overboard in eating old cheese.

How is aged cheese made?

The production process of aged cheese is similar to that of young cheese, but with one crucial difference: time. After the milk is curdled and the curd is formed, the cheese is pressed and placed in salt baths to develop flavour and increase shelf life. The cheese is then matured, developing its distinctive flavour and texture.

Nutritional value of aged cheese

A serving of aged cheese weighing about 30 grams contains on average:

  • Calories: 120
  • Proteins: 7 grams
  • Fats: 10 grams
  • Calcium: 20% of the recommended daily allowance
  • Vitamin B12: 25% of the recommended daily allowance

Health benefits of aged cheese

Besides providing essential nutrients, there are also several health benefits associated with eating aged cheese regularly. For instance, calcium can help prevent osteoporosis and bone fractures, while vitamin B12 is essential for a healthy nervous system and red blood cell formation. So eating old cheese in moderation can be positive for your health.

Aged cheese from Henri Willig

So, aged cheese can definitely be a healthy choice as part of a balanced diet. At Henri Willig, we always strive for the best quality when it comes to our cheese production. Order cheese easily via our web shop and enjoy your favourite aged cheese soon!

Frequently asked questions

Is old cheese healthier than young cheese?

Old cheese and young cheese differ in taste and texture, but the nutritional value also varies. In general, old cheese contains slightly more fat and salt than young cheese because of the ripening process. Both types of cheese contain valuable nutrients such as protein, calcium and vitamin B12, which contribute to a healthy diet.

Can aged cheese contribute to a balanced diet?

Yes, old cheese can definitely contribute to a balanced diet because of its nutritional value. It contains important nutrients such as protein, calcium and vitamin B12. However, it is important to consume old cheese in moderation because of its higher fat and salt content.

Are there any specific health benefits associated with eating aged cheese?

Aged cheese provides important nutrients such as calcium and vitamin B12, which contribute to good health. Calcium can help prevent osteoporosis and vitamin B12 is essential for a healthy nervous system and red blood cell formation.

Order via our webshop

Is this article already making you hungry?

Check out Henri Willig's delicious recipes below.

Quiche with broccoli and cheese

8 pers
50 min

The Easter season is approaching and so we treat ourselves to a simple quiche with broccoli and cheese. After all, we love these tasty savoury tarts, especially since you can experiment with them endlessly.

Making Dutch old cheese salad

4 pers
10 min

Make a delicious aged cheese salad with this recipe! Cut the cheese into very small cubes. Mix the cheese in a bowl with the mayonnaise, soya curd, mustard, honey and dill. Taste, and add more honey and mustard to taste. Would you like the salad a little creamier? Then add some more mayonnaise and soya curd. Super simple right? Enjoy!  Thanks for your delicious recipe Manon from @Courgetticonfetti