True Mozzarella test developed

ITALY – A quick test to identify genuine Mozzarella cheese has been developed as producers try to battle against imitation cheeses.

Researchers at the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) near Naples have discovered that nuclear magnetic resonance scans can determine what kind of milk is used to make the cheese. The test focuses on fats called triglycerides, which are found in milk and are easy to extract.

True Mozzarella cheese is made only from water buffalo milk. Imitation cheeses can contain a mixture of buffalo and cows’ milk or milk from animals including goats and sheep.

Currently, Mozarella is protected by a test that looks for proteins from cows or other animals. Although thorough, this test is cumbersome and is only conducted on a few Mozzarella batches each year.