How Is Parmesan Made? The Grisly Truth Behind The Cheese

Parmesan, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a specialty hard cheese made from unpasteurized cow’s milk, heavily salted, and aged for at least 12 months to achieve its unique flavor. Its production involves specific animal ingredients, making it unsuitable for a vegan or even vegetarian diet. The use of rennet in Parmesan, sourced from animals slaughtered for the veal industry, further adds to its unethical nature.

The dairy industry, responsible for producing cheeses like Parmesan, causes animal cruelty and contributes to environmental issues. As awareness of these realities grows, demand for plant-based and cruelty-free dairy alternatives is on the rise. There are now a variety of vegan cheeses available on the market, providing delicious alternatives to traditional dairy cheeses like Parmesan for those looking to make ethical and sustainable choices in their diets.