About Goat's Milk

Delicious with a slightly sweet and sometimes salty undertone, goat's milk is the milk of choice in most of the world. Although not popular in the United States, it can be found in markets and health foods stores throughout the year.

Unlike cow's milk, there is no need to homogenize goat's milk. While the fat globules in cow's milk tend to separate to the surface, the globules in goat's milk are much smaller and will remain suspended in solution. When individuals have sensitivity to cow's milk, goat's milk can sometimes be used as an alternative.

Health Benefits

Goat's milk is a very good source of calcium and the amino acid tryptophan. It is also a good source of protein, phosphorus, riboflavin (vitamin B2) and potassium. Perhaps the greatest benefit of goat's milk, however, is that some people who cannot tolerate cow's milk are able to drink goat's milk without any problems. It is not clear from scientific research studies exactly why some people can better tolerate goat's milk. Some initial studies suggested that specific proteins known to cause allergic reactions may have been present in cow's milk in significant quantities yet largely absent in goat's milk.

History

Goats have played a role in food culture since time immemorial with ancient cave paintings showing the hunting of goats. They are also one of the oldest domesticated animals since the herding of goats is thought to have evolved about 10,000 years ago in the mountains of Iran.

Goat's milk and the cheese made from it were revered in ancient Egypt with some pharaohs supposedly having these foods placed among the other treasures in their burial chambers. Goat milk was also widely consumed by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Goat milk has remained popular throughout history and still is consumed on a more extensive basis worldwide than cow's milk.

Serving Ideas

Next time you want a glass of milk, try goat's milk instead.

Goat's milk yogurt makes a wonderful base for savoury dips. Simply mix in your favourite herbs and spices and serve with crudité.

Crumble some goat's cheese on a salad of romaine lettuce, pears and pumpkin seeds.

Crumbled goat cheese is a wonderful rich topping for split pea soup.

Add extra taste and protein to a vegetable sandwich by including some goat's cheese.

Soft, spreadable goat cheese is an exceptional accompaniment to crusty whole grain bread or crackers and fruit.

Top sliced tomatoes with crumpled goat cheese and fresh basil. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil.

Green Earth Organics has recently started carrying Avalon Dairy Goat's Milk. We hope to start carrying goat's milk cheeses very soon. If you are interested in special ordering goat's milk yogurt, please call Melissa in the office at 604-708-2345 or email her at info@greenearthorganics.com.