Effect of Pasteurization on the Sensory Characteristics of a Ewe's‐milk Cheese

The present study examined the effect of two different processing technologies in the manufacture of a ewe's‐milk cheese. Two batches were manufactured, one from raw milk, the other from pasteurized milk. A starter culture consisting of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis var. diacetylactis and Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei was added to both batches. Descriptive analysis of the sensory characteristics was carried out for the two cheese batches at two different ripening times (90 and 180 days). Statistical analysis revealed differences both between the two batches and between the ripening times considered. The cheeses made from the raw milk were firmer, with a more characteristic odor, taste, and aftertaste. The cheeses made from the pasteurized milk were creamier with a sweeter odor and taste and a more bitter aftertaste. Irrespective of the cheese batch, at 180 days all the cheese samples were firmer and grainier with a more characteristic taste and aftertaste as well as a spicier taste and aftertaste.