As a food science expert with a focus on dietary preferences and restrictions, I can provide a detailed answer to your question about whether cheddar cheese is considered vegetarian.

Cheese, including cheddar, is typically made from milk, which is a dairy product. The process of making cheese involves the coagulation of the milk's proteins, followed by the separation of the curds from the whey. Traditionally, an enzyme called rennet is used to coagulate the milk proteins. Rennet can come from different sources:


1. Animal Rennet: This is derived from the stomach of a suckling calf, lamb, or kid goat. Since it involves the use of an animal product that is not a byproduct of the meat or dairy industry (i.e., it's not just the milk being used), cheese made with animal rennet is not considered vegetarian.


2. Vegetable Rennet: This is a plant-based substitute for animal rennet. It is made from various sources such as the thistle plant or other fungi. Cheese made with vegetable rennet is considered vegetarian because it does not involve the use of any animal products beyond the milk itself.


3. Microbiome Rennet: This is produced by specific types of fungi or bacteria. It is also used to make vegetarian cheese.


4. Genetically Engineered Rennet: This type of rennet is produced through genetic engineering and is also suitable for vegetarian cheese.

To determine if a specific cheddar cheese is vegetarian, you would need to check the label or inquire with the manufacturer about the source of the rennet used in its production. Not all cheddar cheeses are made with the same type of rennet, so it's important to verify this information.

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According to the FAQs: No rennet of animal origin is used in our products. We use a microbial enzyme to make our cheese. They have a cheese called "Vegetarian Parmesan" which is also suitable for vegetarians. ... Asiago, Parmesan, Romano and Processed Cheeses not Ok.read more >>