Characterization of Jben: Microbiological and Physicochemical Analysis of Traditional Raw Cow's Milk Cheese with Dried Lamb Rennet from Ain Sefra, Algeria

Jben is a traditional cheese produced in the northwest of Algeria's Ain Sefra province. It is made from cow raw milk, coagulated using “el Hakka” animal rennet.

Sixteen cheeses prepared during winter and summer were collected, to analyse seasonal effects on their physicochemical characteristics.

The analysis revealed a higher prevalence of lactic acid bacteria, molds, Bacillus and total coliforms in the winter season. Conversely, mesophilic aerobic bacteria, Micrococcaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, yeasts and faecal coliforms were most abundant in the summer. No anaerobic spores or Salmonella spp. were detected in any samples. The cheeses had an average pH of 5.76 and a dry matter content of 45.20% (w/w). The average values for fat, protein, ash content, acidity and fat/dry matter were 20.02%, 18.64%, 3.2%, 33.93°D and 44.23%, respectively. Statistical analyses revealed a highly significant difference between the two seasons at p<0.05. Traditional Jben is classified as a semi-soft, quarter-fat, and non-ripened cheese.