Low‐fat Cheddar cheese made using microparticulated whey proteins: Effect on yield and cheese quality

Abstract

Influence of different levels (0, 0.15, 0.35 or 0.50%) of microparticulated whey protein ( MWP ) on yield and quality of low‐fat (~7.3 g/100 g) Cheddar cheese was investigated. MWP improved cheese yield due to the water‐binding ability of denatured whey protein. MWP addition decreased meltability but improved the textural properties beneficial for shredding and slicing, by decreasing sensory firmness. The results emphasise the role of MWP as an inert filler within cheese matrix, in improving cheese yield and creating a softer texture without compromising the sensory or overall quality of cheese, even with moisture increases in 0.35 or 0.50% MWP cheeses.