Goat milk

Last week, I was at the Olive Oil Tasting Festival in Edremit, where we sampled various olive oils and even tried goat milk olive oil ice cream made by the Italian "ice cream philosopher," Marco Radicioni. Marco is a hero who is carrying gastronomy forward.

In the first half of 2024, Bulgaria processed 500,000 tons of milk. Cow's cheese production saw the most significant growth, increasing by 10% compared to the previous year. Conversely, goat cheese production fell by 15%, reflecting a reduction in goat milk production. Butter production also decreased by 27%, while white brine cheese experienced a 5% increase.

Cyprus' iconic halloumi cheese remains a protected designation of origin (PDO) product after the European Union granted a crucial five-year grace period to comply with production specifications.

The decision, published in a new European regulation, provides Cypriot producers with breathing room until 2029 to adjust their practices to meet PDO requirements.