Is Edam Similar to Mozzarella Cheese: Let’s Find Out 

Choosing between different kinds of cheese can be difficult especially when they both are similar in many ways. Mozzarella vs Edam cheese is one such confusing choice.

As a nutritionist, I help you uncover the differences between Mozzarella and Edam cheese. So. stay on till the end to find out which one is better for you.

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Mozzarella Vs Edam Cheese Benefits & Nutritional Comparison

Before I delve into the details let’s take a quick look at the nutritional and beneficial similarities of mozzarella and Edam cheese

*Source: USDA; Quantity defined is 1 ounce (28.4g)

Now that we have a basic understanding of edam cheese and Mozzarella cheese let us look at each two and attribute individually –

How Does Mozzarella’s Method of Preparation Differ from That of Edam Cheese?

Mozzarella is a fresh curd cheese that is prepared by adding rennet and cheese culture to warm milk. While traditionally, water buffalo milk was used, today cow milk is mainly used.  Once the curds are formed, the whey is separated. The curds are further heated in warm water and stretched out to get the mozzarella consistency. 

Edam cheese can be made using either cow or goat milk. In warmed milk, liquid rennet is added to it so that it coagulates. Once the curds are formed the whey is completely drained out. The curds are then transferred into molds and covered with brine or salt so as to avoid the growth of unwanted bacteria. The molds are then kept on wooden shelves and left to mature.

Difference in the Nature of Mozzarella Cheese and Edam Cheese

Mozzarella is a type of semi- soft cheese. Mozzarella is available in fresh and low moisture versions. WHile low moisture versions are  wrapped in plastic packaging, fresh mozzarella is available as balls dipped in whey or brine. 

Edam cheese falls under the semi-hard cheese category. It is generally available as blocks. Sometime, you may also find it with shiny red or yellow wax coating.

Edam Cheese vs Mozzarella Taste, Texture & Appearance 

Mozzarella is generally while or off white in colour. It is soft, spongy and easily sliceable. When it comes to  flavour, it has a faint milky aroma and a mild mily taste. 

Edam cheese is pale yellow in colour and supple texture. It is a mild tasting cheese with slightly nutty or salty falvour. The taste becomes sharper with age. 

Mozzarella Vs Edam Cheese: Which One Needs to be Aged?

Mozzarella is a fresh cheese which means that you do not need to age it before eating it. In fact, I really love eating my mozzarella within a few hours of its preparation. 

Edam cheese is generally aged to intensify its flavour. The aging may last from a couple of months to about a year. Edam cheese gets harder with age. 

Lower in Calories: Mozzarella Cheese or Edam Cheese?

Cheese is higher in calories when compared to many other dairy products. This is because of the higher concentration of fats, proteins and other nutrients.

Mozzarella and edam cheese are both lower in calories when compared to many other types of cheese, but edam has a comparatively higher calorie count. 

Better Choice for a Low Carb Diet: Mozzarella or Edam Cheese?

Many of you must have heard of keto or atkins diets. These are called low carb diets that are mainly advocates for weight loss. 

If you are following any such diet, some types of cheese can be included in your diet plan. Mozzarella and edam cheese though not the best choices, but can be included now and then in your low carb meal plan. 

Which Is Lower in Fats: Mozzarella Or Edam Cheese?

The very look at the table shows that edam cheese has a higher concentration of fats when compared to mozzarella. 

Edam cheese has around 27-28% fat in dry matter when compared to 20-22% in mozzarella cheese. 

Mozzarella or Edam: Which Cheese is Higher in Proteins?

Like all kinds of cheese, mozzarella and edam are both good sources of protein. However, edam cheese has a slightly higher amount when compared to edam

The protein in cheese can help you stay full for a longer time and help in controlling craving. So, I always recommend people to opt for healthy cheese as a snack option when they are trying to manage their weight.

Which Has A Higher Calcium Concentration: Mozzarella or Edam Cheese?

Dairy is one of the best sources of calcium. Therefore, including dairy products in your diet everyday, can help you meet your calcium requirements. 

Mozzarella and edam cheese, both being dairy products, are rich in calcium. Edam does however have an advantage over mozzarella when it comes to calcium concentration.

Which is Lower in Sodium: Mozzarella Cheese or Edam Cheese?

Sodium is needed by the body for many functions including maintaining water balance, functioning of muscles, and conducting nerve impulses. However, higher sodium can negatively impact blood pressure and heart diseases.

Mozzarella, when compared to edam, is lower in the amount of sodium. This makes it a good choice for people who are trying to limit their sodium intake. 

Mozzarella or Edam: The Cheese Which Has More Nutrients? 

Mozzarella and edam are both nutritionally diverse and rich. Both types of cheeses contain many essential minerals and vitamins. 

Vitamins that are present in both types of cheese include the B vitamins, A, D, E and K. Apart from the vitamins, they also contain essential minerals like phosphorus, zinc, calcium, potassium, etc. 

Mozzarella Or Edam: For Stronger Bones & Teeth?

Being rich in calcium, both mozzarella and edam can be considered good choices for your overall bone and teeth health.

Cheese is also rich in phosphorus, which helps in absorption of calcium. Further, cheese is also rich in casein, a milk protein that helps fortify tooth enamel. 

Mozzarella Cheese Vs Edam Cheese: Which One Has Better Digestibility? 

Mozzarella is considered to be one of the most nutritious and healthy types of cheese. This is because apart from the vitamins and minerals, it also contains good bacteria or probiotics. Probiotics are known for their positive impact on digestion. 

Therefore, if we compare the digestibility of mozzarella and edam cheese, mozzarella certainly holds an advantage.  

More Versatile Cheese: Mozzarella or Edam Cheese?

Mozzarella is the top choice for pastas and pizzas. It also is a very good option for fresh salads like caprese or tortellini. Mozzarella is thus one of the most versatile cheeses out there. 

Edam cheese can be eaten as a table cheese served with fren fruits, crackers, cookies and wines. Since it melts well, you can also add it to pasta dishes, soups, sources,  casserole dishes, etc. for an oozing creamy flavour.

Which Has a Longer Shelf Life – Mozzarella or Edam Cheese?

Mozzarella being a fresh cheese has a shorter shelf life. Fresh mozzarella can be stored in the fridge for upto a week while low moisture can last much longer.

Edam cheese does not spoil easily and has a longer shelf life. Mature edam can have a shelf life of up to a year if stored properly. 

Edam and mozzarella, thus may seem similar but vary in nutritional aspects. The choice between the two ultimately boils down to your needs, tastes and preferences. 

I would love to know which one’s your favourite between the two.