It costs half as much and is excellent for your health.
Pillars of our diet, dairy products are recognized for their multiple health benefits, particularly on bones, teeth, muscles and immunity. Today, the fresh sections are full of options: Greek yogurts, white cheeses, Petits Suisses, Skyrs… and it is not always easy for the consumer to make the best choice. This is without counting on this new product which is preparing to outclass the competition. Adored in Germany, Denmark and the Nordic countries, where it is a staple food, this type of white cheese, very little known in France, is making a remarkable entrance into our supermarkets.
Its main asset? Its exceptional protein content: a 100 g pot contains up to 14 grams of protein while Skyr (the famous Icelandic cheese) provides 10 grams. Its proteins – mainly caseins – have excellent bioavailability, promoting satiety, muscle maintenance and muscle recovery, confirm Polish researchers in a study published in Food. It is often available in versions that are very low in fat (less than 1%) and low in calories (63 calories per 100 g), making it ideal for daily consumption without impacting weight.
The product in question is Quark (pronounced “kvark”), a fresh cheese made from skim milk. Its texture, between yogurt and drained cheese, is slightly more grainy and tangy than classic fromage blanc. It is sold in France, notably under the distributor brands of major brands (Milbona at Lidl, Carrefour, etc.) and sometimes under foreign brands (Bergerie, Dr Oetker, Flor de Burgos, M&C Dairy, etc.). Its price generally remains affordable, being in the same range as natural white cheese (half as expensive as Skyr).
To maximize its benefits, it is recommended to consume one serving (around 150 grams) per day, for breakfast or as a snack. It is eaten plain, with fruit and honey, or used as a base for savory spreads (with herbs and spices) or as a protein ingredient in low-fat pastries.
Beyond its benefits for weight management and muscle building, Quark is beneficial for other aspects of health. Its high concentration of calcium is fundamental for bone strength and the maintenance of healthy teeth, playing a preventive role against osteoporosis. In addition, it contains live lactic ferments which contribute to the balance of the intestinal microbiota and contribute to better digestion.
