How Climate Change Threatens Your Favorite Cheese: What You Need to Know

Climate change is changing many things, including the cheese we love. A recent study highlights how shifts in cow diets, caused by changing weather patterns, impact the quality of cheese—specifically Cantal cheese from France.

In central France, where Cantal is made, cows usually graze on local grass. However, severe droughts are forcing dairy farmers to switch to feed like corn. Animal scientist Matthieu Bouchon explains, “Farmers want feed that grows better in dry conditions and yields more.” But they also wonder, how do these changes affect cheese?

In 2021, Bouchon and his research team studied 40 cows over five months, simulating drought conditions. They tested how different diets affected the milk produced. To do this, they used gas chromatography to analyze milk’s fat and protein, both crucial for cheese quality. They also checked for beneficial microbes in the milk.

Their findings were interesting. Milk from cows that ate corn yielded the same amount and even produced less methane, a potent greenhouse gas. However, cows that primarily grazed on grass produced cheese with richer flavors and more omega-3 fatty acids. This type of cheese also contained more probiotic bacteria, which is good for gut health.

Bouchon’s team suggests dairy producers should keep fresher vegetation in the cows’ diets when corn is the main food to maintain cheese quality.

Experts in dairy science point out additional challenges caused by climate change. Marina Danes from Brazil notes that heat can make cows eat less, which affects milk production. This diversion of nutrients can make cows more susceptible to disease.

Brazilian dairy producer Gustavo Abijaodi shares his experience with changing weather. He now keeps his cows indoors more often to keep them cool during longer hot seasons. “If we stabilize heat effects, the cattle will produce better milk," he states.

Nonetheless, Bouchon emphasizes that solutions may vary by region. "If climate change continues on this path, it will impact our cheese directly," he warns.

In summary, as climate change puts pressure on farming practices, the quality of our beloved cheeses like Cantal may depend on how farmers adapt their livestock diets. Maintaining traditional grass-fed practices while integrating more resilient feed could ensure flavorful and nutritious cheese for the future.

For more insights on dairy and climate change, check out resources from the Journal of Dairy Science and reports from organizations like the FAO.

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