Kaya Çiftliği İsli Çerkez peyniri

Barcode Analysis: 8697408211866 (Kaya Çiftliği İsli Çerkez Peyniri)

This barcode corresponds to a product labeled "Kaya Çiftliği İsli Çerkez Peyniri" (Kaya Farm Fresh Çerkez Cheese), a traditional Turkish white cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, often aged and brined. Below are key details based on available data:

Product Overview

• Type: Soft, fresh, or semi-firm white cheese (Çerkez peyniri is a regional variant of beyaz peynir, typically unripened or lightly salted).
• Milk Source: Primarily sheep’s milk (goat’s milk may also be used, depending on regional practices).
• Texture: Creamy, moist, and slightly elastic; often sold in brine or wrapped in cheesecloth.
• Flavor Profile: Mild, tangy, and buttery, with a subtle saltiness from the brine. Some versions may have a sharper taste if aged longer.
• Cultural Significance: Çerkez peyniri is a staple in Turkish cuisine, used in dishes like kaymak (clotted cream), simit, or eaten fresh with bread and olive oil.

Brand & Manufacturer

• Brand: Kaya Çiftliği (Kaya Farm) – A Turkish dairy brand known for traditional, artisanal cheeses. The "Çiftliği" suffix suggests a focus on farm-fresh, small-scale production.
• Origin: Likely produced in Turkey, possibly in regions like Çanakkale, Balıkesir, or Bursa, where Çerkez peyniri is traditionally made.
• Packaging: Typically sold in plastic-wrapped blocks or vacuum-sealed packs, sometimes with a brine solution inside the package.

Nutritional & Health Considerations

• Key Nutrients (per 100g, approximate):
  • Calories: ~300–350 kcal
  • Fat: ~20–25g (mostly saturated)
  • Protein: ~15–20g
  • Sodium: ~1–2g (higher if brine-soaked)
  • Calcium: ~300–400mg (good for bone health)
  • Lactose: Low (due to fermentation), but may contain trace amounts depending on aging.
• Allergens: Milk (primary), may contain traces of other dairy ingredients.
• Health Warnings/Concerns:
  1. High Sodium: Brine-soaked cheeses can be high in sodium, which may be problematic for individuals with hypertension or kidney issues.
  2. Saturated Fat: Like most full-fat cheeses, it contains saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
  3. Raw Milk Risk (if applicable): If the cheese is made from raw (unpasteurized) milk, there is a theoretical risk of bacterial contamination (e.g., Listeria, Salmonella). However, pasteurized versions are more common in commercial products.
  4. Lactose Intolerance: While Çerkez peyniri is typically low in lactose, some individuals may still experience mild digestive discomfort.
  5. Additives: Check the label for preservatives (e.g., sodium benzoate) or artificial colors, though traditional versions are usually minimal.