But now, cottage cheese is experiencing a resurgence. In recent months, Google searches for "cottage cheese" have surged to their highest levels since 2004. Social media influencers are championing its benefits on TikTok and Instagram, resulting in a massive increase in global sales of this creamy concoction.
So What is Cottage Cheese?
Cottage cheese is a fresh dairy product known for its mild flavour and slightly tangy taste. It's made by curdling cow's milk and then draining off the whey, leaving behind small, lumpy curds. The texture can range from creamy to dry, depending on how much whey is retained. The name "cottage cheese" is believed to have originated because it was typically made in cottage-style homes using leftover milk after butter production.
New Ways to Use Cottage Cheese
It's unclear what sparked the recent cottage cheese trend, but the creativity of social media has led to people discovering new and exciting ways to use it. What was once considered bland and flavourless is now seen as versatile and healthy.
People are spreading cottage cheese on toast and incorporating it into dishes like porridge, dips, salads, bread, and desserts and of course the infamous flatbread.
Is Cottage Cheese Healthy?
Compared to other cheeses, cottage cheese is lower in fat and calories, making it a smart choice for those looking to reduce their daily energy intake. For example, 100 grams of cottage cheese contains about 556 kJ, whereas the same amount of cheddar contains 1,254 kJ, and parmesan has 1,565 kJ.
While many cheeses are rich in protein, they also tend to be higher in kilojoules due to their fat content. Cottage cheese, however, offers a substantial amount of protein with fewer kilojoules. A 100-gram serving of cottage cheese provides 17 grams of protein, roughly equivalent to the protein found in three eggs, 60 grams of chicken breast, or 320 milliliters (about 300 grams) of full-fat yogurt.
Cottage cheese is also a good source of vitamin B12, which is important for healthy brain function, riboflavin, which supports healthy skin and eyes, phosphorus, which helps build strong bones and teeth, and folate, essential for cell growth.
Embrace the Trend
With its excellent nutritional profile and newfound popularity, cottage cheese is inspiring people to experiment in the kitchen. TikTok and Instagram are great sources for recipes. The viral cottage cheese flatbread is super easy to make and could be your new favourite lunch option or how about trying a delicious cottage cheese on toast.
We think cottage cheese deserves its day in the sun again and a healthy trend we are definitely going to embrace.
