Don’t Let Your Love for Goat’s Cheese Be Ruined by the Plastic Flavor – Here’s What You Need to Know

Now, we all know that goat’s cheese has a strong, unique taste with a complex flavor profile.

But surely it shouldn’t taste like plastic?

Is there a scientific reason for this?

Could the goat’s milk have contributed to this weird flavor?

Maybe the way the cheese is processed or stored is responsible.

Or is it really just as simple as absorbing the taste from its packaging?

Let’s investigate the plastic goat’s cheese mystery!

Don’t Let Plastic-Tasting Goat’s Cheese Ruin Your Next Dish: Here’s What You Need to Know

Goat’s cheese tastes plasticky due to several factors, including the age of the cheese, the type of goat’s milk used, and the presence of too much rennet. The well-being and health of the goats themselves can also affect the taste of their milk, which in turn affects the flavor of the cheese. By understanding these factors and taking steps to ensure the quality of the milk and cheese, you can enjoy a savory and delicious goat’s cheese that is perfect for a variety of dishes.

What Causes the Plastic-Like Taste in Goat’s Cheese?

It can be a huge disappointment if you were looking forward to some delicious, creamy goat’s cheese and all you can taste is plastic!

Let’s have a look at the possible causes.

There are three reasons for the weird taste: the age of the cheese, the processing method, and the type of goat’s milk that is used.

If we start with the manufacturing method, too much rennet can cause problems.

Rennet is the enzyme responsible for coagulating milk and separating it into curds and whey.

But if too much is used, then the flavor of the goat’s cheese can become plasticky and bitter to taste.

The next culprit is the age of the cheese and how it is stored.

If the goat’s cheese is allowed to go overripe, the tangy flavor goes away and is replaced by the unpleasant taste of plastic. 

And how you store the cheese at home also makes a difference.

Always keep it in the refrigerator, preferably wrapped tightly in parchment paper.

It should be neither too dry nor too moist.

In the next section, I am going to discuss the different types of goat’s milk.

Can the Type of Goat’s Milk Affect the Taste of the Cheese?

You might be surprised at how much of an impact the different types of milk have on the final product.

Let me explain how the taste of the cheese can be affected by the milk.

It’s possible to obtain milk from several different breeds of goat, and it will have different characteristics.

For example, Nubian goats produce creamy, sweet milk, whereas LaMancha goats yield milk that is high in protein and fats, which makes it almost buttery in taste.

If you can find cheese made from the milk of Alpine goats, then you are in luck!

This is my personal favorite, and the flavorful, rich taste is perfect on crackers, or as the centerpiece of a salad.

Now, here’s something you may not have considered, and that is how the health and well-being of the goat can affect the flavor of its milk.

If the goats are stressed or sick, then just like humans, their bodies produce the hormone cortisol, which impacts milk production.

And yes, goats do suffer from stress!

The environment in which the goats are kept also plays a part in influencing the flavor of the milk. 

The happier and healthier the goat, the better quality milk it will produce.

Ideally, the goats should be allowed to graze in fields, giving them access to sunlight and fresh air.

The final key factor is the goat’s diet.

If they are allowed to eat hay and fresh grass, the milk will be creamier and sweeter.

However, if the goats are fed processed foods or grains, the unwanted extra compounds can create a bitter, plasticky taste in the milk, and subsequently, the cheese made from it. 

How Can You Prevent Goat’s Cheese from Tasting Like Plastic?

So, now that we have a better idea of why your goat’s cheese tastes like plastic, how can we prevent it?

Let’s find some tricks and tips!

Although, I have to be honest, and say that there is little you can do if once you have tasted the cheese, you detect a plastic flavor.

There is no way of removing it.

From the outset, always buy your goat’s cheese from a reputable source, made from high-quality ingredients.

The so-called artisan cheeses are usually reliable, as they are made using authentic, traditional methods.

As mentioned, before, ensure you store the cheese correctly.

Are you perhaps making your own cheese at home?

If so, keep an eye on how much rennet you use, so as not to adversely affect the taste. 

How Great Goat’s Cheese Is Made

My Conclusion

• The taste and texture of the goat’s cheese can vary depending on the type of milk used.
• The numerous different goat breeds produce milk with varying amounts of protein and fat, which can affect the texture and flavor.
• The quality and flavor of the goats’ milk can be greatly influenced by their own health and well-being.
• Hay and fresh grass are good sources of nutrition for goats, and they tend to produce milk with a creamy flavor.
• Goats housed in stress-free and sanitary conditions are typically happier and healthier, which can enhance the taste of the milk.

I hope you enjoyed this article and now have a better understanding of why goat’s cheese can sometimes have a nasty plastic taste!

Please comment below with your favorite way to enjoy goat’s cheese, I would love to hear from you!

And, if you are interested in unusual flavors in your cheese, you might enjoy my article on the saltiness of mozzarella!