How do herbs and spices influence cheese?

Herbs and spices play a significant role in enhancing the sensory characteristics of cheese by adding unique flavors and aromas. When incorporated into cheese, they can create a wide array of flavor profiles, transforming a basic cheese into an artisanal product with distinctive taste notes. The infusion of these elements often complements the natural flavors of the milk and the cheese's underlying characteristics, allowing for creativity in cheese making and pairing.

While some herbs and spices may offer slight nutritional benefits, their primary influence lies in flavor enhancement rather than improving nutritional value. Additionally, herbs and spices typically do not alter the texture of cheese in a significant way; they mainly affect the taste and smell. Similarly, while certain herbs can have preservative qualities, their main purpose in cheese production is for flavor rather than for preservation.