Goat milk
Specific breed
Established
Saanen
The dominant commercial goat-dairy breed worldwide. Higher yield than Alpine or Nubian; somewhat milder milk character.
Animal
Goat
Kind
Specific breed
Fat content
3.5-4.0%
Protein content
2.9-3.2%
Significance
Established
Yield
Highest-yielding goat breed — 1,200-2,000L/year typical. The "Holstein of goats" in dairy-economics terms.
Dominant regions
Originated in the Saanen Valley (Switzerland); now globally distributed. Dominant in US commercial goat-dairy operations.
History
The Saanen breed was developed in the late 19th century in the Saanen Valley of Switzerland. The all-white coat is the visual signature. Saanen exports built commercial goat dairying in many countries.
Flavor character
Milder character than other goat breeds — less intensely "goaty." The high yield comes with somewhat less concentrated milk character.
Signature cheeses
- Most US commercial goat cheese uses Saanen milk
- Many Loire goat cheeses (though Loire is breed-mixed)
Used in cheese categories
Fresh
Bloomy rind
Aged goat/sheep