Lactic Fermentation Cheese

Definition and Scope

Lactic fermentation is a biochemical process where lactose converts into lactic acid through bacterial action. This fundamental technique primarily occurs during cheese making when specific lactic acid bacteria metabolize milk sugars. The resulting acidification coagulates milk proteins and develops characteristic tangy flavors.

This process defines numerous fresh cheese categories where acid coagulation replaces enzymatic rennet action. Cheeses like cottage cheese, quark, and fromage blanc rely exclusively on lactic fermentation for their texture and preservation. The technique creates delicate, moist cheeses with shorter shelf lives than aged varieties.

Production Process

Lactic fermentation begins with inoculating pasteurized milk with mesophilic starter cultures containing Lactococcus and Leuconostoc species. These bacteria thrive at moderate temperatures between 20-30°C during the coagulation phase. The acid development occurs over 12-24 hours, gradually lowering pH to approximately 4.6.

Cheesemakers carefully control temperature and timing to prevent over-acidification while ensuring proper protein coagulation. The resulting curd remains fragile and high in moisture, requiring gentle handling. Draining occurs without pressing, preserving the delicate structure that distinguishes lactic cheeses from rennet-coagulated varieties.

Sensory Profile

Lactic cheeses present a distinctly clean, acidic taste profile with pronounced tanginess. Their flavor spectrum ranges from mildly sour in fresh examples to more complex fermented notes in aged versions. The acidity provides a refreshing quality that balances the inherent milk sweetness.

Texturally, these cheeses exhibit exceptional softness and spreadability due to high moisture content. They typically appear bright white with minimal rind development in fresh forms. Aroma profiles remain milky and fresh, sometimes developing subtle yeast or fungal notes in surface-ripened variations.

Culinary Applications

Fresh lactic cheeses serve extensively in breakfast and dessert preparations across culinary traditions. Their mild acidity complements fruits, honey, and baked goods while providing creamy texture. Chefs utilize them as spreads, fillings, and toppings where their moisture content enhances other ingredients.

In cooking, lactic cheeses melt smoothly into sauces and soups without oil separation. They contribute tanginess to dips and dressings while maintaining stability. Their low pH makes them excellent marinades for tenderizing meats and vegetables through gentle acid breakdown.

Regional Examples

France produces numerous iconic lactic cheeses including fromage blanc, faisselle, and fresh chèvre. These typically feature pure, unaged characteristics with high moisture content. The Loire Valley specializes in lactic goat cheeses like Crottin de Chavignol that develop minimal rinds.

German quark and Scandinavian viili represent Northern European lactic traditions with slightly grainier textures. Mediterranean regions yield ricotta and mizithra through acid-coagulation of whey proteins. Each regional variation demonstrates how local milk types and bacterial strains create distinctive fermented cheese profiles.

Scroll to Top