Types of Rennet and Coagulants

The choice between animal rennet and microbial rennet depends on cheese type, flavor requirements, and dietary preferences. Animal rennet, traditionally sourced from calf stomachs, contains chymosin—a key enzyme coagulant—which provides clean, consistent coagulation and is preferred for aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano due to its superior flavor development. However, microbial rennet, produced by fermentation of fungi (e.g., Rhizomucor miehei) or bacteria, is a vegetarian-friendly milk coagulant with strong clotting activity. While microbial rennet can sometimes introduce slight bitterness in long-aged cheeses, modern fermentation techniques have significantly improved its performance. If you're looking for reliable microbial rennet suppliers, Punature offers high-quality products , making it an excellent choice for your needs of coagulant for cheese making.

Selecting the right rennet types involves considering cheese style, culture type, and processing conditions. For high-temperature cheeses like Mozzarella or Swiss, thermophilic starter cultures paired with thermostable rennet ensure proper curd formation at 38–42°C. In contrast, soft cheeses like Camembert or Brie benefit from mesophilic cultures and gentler animal or microbial rennet at lower temperatures (30–32°C). Liquid rennet is preferred for small-scale production due to easier measurement, while powdered or tablet forms suit large batches. Dosage typically ranges from 0.5–2 ml per 100 liters of milk, but always confirm with a cheese-making guide for specific recipes. Additionally, vegetable rennets (e.g., from thistle or fig) are niche options for artisanal or plant-based cheese coagulant applications. The chymosin application in traditional rennet remains critical for authentic flavor in many classic cheeses. When reviewing the dairy enzymes list for various cheese types, it is important to note the varying coagulants and other ingredients that contribute to the cheese's texture and flavor profile.

As one of the most professional microbial rennet suppliers, Punature offers different types of rennet and coagulants for the cheese industry. Reach out to us to learn more or request a quote.