Demystifying Provolone: Does This Italian Cheese Contain Hidden Pork?

Provolone is a popular Italian cheese appreciated for its smooth texture and mild, nutty flavor. But does this staple cheese contain hidden pork products that could be problematic for certain diets and restrictions? With so many varieties of cheese out there, it’s reasonable to wonder – does provolone have pork in it?

Let’s examine how traditional provolone cheese is made, what ingredients go into it, and how to know if you’re getting an authentic pork-free product

A Brief History of Provolone

Provolone originated in southern Italy in the late 19th century The name is derived from the Italian word “provola” meaning “large pear”, referring to the pear shape of the cheese

Two main varieties exist

• Provolone Dolce: Aged 2-3 months, it has a milder, semi-soft texture.

• Provolone Piccante: Aged for 6-12 months, it has a bold, spicy flavor.

It’s commonly produced from cow’s milk, but can also be made from water buffalo milk for a rich, buttery flavor. The curds are stretched and shaped before a rind is added. Provolone then ages to develop its distinctive tang.

Traditional Provolone Ingredients

Authentic provolone is made using just a few simple ingredients:

• Milk – Either cow or water buffalo milk provides the base.

• Starter culture – Adds acidity and develops flavor through fermentation.

• Rennet – Causes the milk to coagulate and form curds, usually calf-derived.

• Salt – Draws out moisture and aids in preservation.

• Enzymes – Break down proteins to achieve a smooth, sliceable texture.

As you can see, no pork products are included in traditional provolone. But what about those enzymes – could they come from pigs?

Enzymes in Provolone

Enzymes help provolone obtain its characteristic smooth, elastic texture. The most common enzymes found are:

• Chymosin – Derived from calves or microbes; aids curdling.

• Pepsin – Found in calves, kids, or microbial sources; coagulates milk.

• Lipase – From calves, kids, or microbes; improves flavor.

While animal-derived, these traditional provolone enzymes come from bovine or caprine sources, not porcine. Microbial enzymes from fermentation also avoid pork.

Identifying Authentic Provolone

To identify pork-free provolone:

• Look for tags like “traditional”, “authentic”, or “imported Italian”.

• Check the ingredients for only milk, cultures, enzymes, salt – no preservatives or additives.

• Select provolone made from cow or water buffalo milk.

• Opt for domestic specialty or imported brands over major commercial cheeses.

• Ask your cheesemonger or deli for a pork-free recommendation.

Watch Out for Pre-Packaged Provolone

With pre-sliced, packaged provolone, pork-derived ingredients may sneak in:

• Anti-caking agents – Prevents sticking; often veal-based, not pork.

• Preservatives – Maintains freshness; could contain pork gelatin.

• Coloring – Enhances color; may be pork-derived annatto. Seek natural colorings.

Stick to slicing fresh, authentic provolone yourself or look for additive-free, all-natural pre-packaged cheese to avoid questionable ingredients.

Religious Diet Considerations

Here’s how provolone adheres to major religious diet laws:

• Kosher – Traditionally made provolone is usually kosher certified.

• Halal – No pork enzymes makes it halal-friendly; water buffalo milk is ideal.

• Hindu – Avoiding beef, provolone from water buffalo milk is vegetarian-approved.

So those avoiding pork for religious reasons can comfortably enjoy high-quality provolone. Just double check labels on pre-sliced varieties.

Health Benefits of Provolone

Beyond being pork-free, provolone offers great nutrition:

• Protein – Provides satisfying protein for energy and muscle growth.

• Calcium – Packed with calcium and vitamin D for healthy bones.

• Probiotics – Fermented cheeses like provolone contain gut-friendly probiotics.

• Nutrition – Good source of B vitamins, zinc, phosphorus and vitamin A.

With its stellar nutrition and meltability, provolone makes a tasty addition to any pork-free diet.

Enjoying Provolone’s Versatility

Provolone’s mild flavor and excellent melting properties make it extremely versatile:

• Layer on sandwiches, paninis, and burgers

• Use in place of mozzarella on pizza

• Stuff chicken breast with provolone and bake

• Toss with pasta or risotto dishes

• Mix into mashed potatoes for flavor and creaminess

• Skewer with fruit and grill or roast

• Fold into omelets, frittatas, and quiches

• Bake into breads, savory scones, and biscuits

Get creative with provolone dolce for melting or provolone piccante for a bolder kick!

The Bottom Line

When traditionally made, provolone cheese does not contain pork products, making it suitable for those avoiding pork for religious, cultural, or personal reasons. While non-animal enzymes would make provolone completely vegetarian, traditional animal enzymes still avoid pork. But always verify ingredients on pre-packaged sliced provolone. For reliably pork-free provolone, go for freshly sliced authentic varieties. With its adaptable flavor and smooth melt, provolone has rightfully earned its place in Italian cuisine and on artisan cheese boards.