Goat and sheep milk products in the United States (USA)

Abstract

Goat and sheep milk represent only about 0.08% of the total annual milk production in the USA. Currently about 24% of the goat milk is used for fluid consumption. Approximately 75% of goat milk and 95% of the sheep milk produced is used in the production of cheeses. Predictive cheese yield formulas have been developed for both goat and sheep milk. To avoid competition from imported goat and sheep milk cheeses, U.S. processors are concentrating on production of specialty and artisanal cheeses. With a continued emphasis on the special qualities of goat and sheep milk, the market for goat and sheep milk products in the USA should continue to grow.