How the Feta Cheese Shortage is Impacting Food Businesses

Last week, my usual Friday night Greek salad from a Park Slope takeout spot was missing its usual huge crumble of feta cheese, all because of a feta cheese shortage starting in Greece. This shortage is causing concern for businesses that heavily rely on this beloved cheese.

For those unfamiliar with feta cheese, it is typically made from sheep’s milk, sometimes blended with goat’s milk for added complexity. The shortage is a result of a decrease in sheep milk production, leading to less feta cheese available in the market.

Sarah Schneider, co-owner of Gus and Marty’s in Williamsburg, explains the impact of this shortage on their menu, which features several feta-heavy dishes. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the ingredient, stating that swapping to non-traditional feta is not a viable solution.

In addition to its delicious taste, feta cheese is also valued for its nutritional benefits. It is high in protein, calcium, vitamins A, B, and K, as well as minerals like selenium, zinc, and phosphorus. Nutrition experts suggest alternatives like Parmesan or cottage cheese, which offer similar nutritional profiles.

The shortage of feta cheese is not only affecting dinner menus but also happy hour offerings. Mr. Mello, known for its Feta Brine Martini, has had to switch brands due to the shortage. However, the popular martini will remain on the menu, even if it means sourcing feta cheese from Greece.

Despite the challenges posed by the feta cheese shortage, businesses are determined to uphold the quality of their dishes. The impact can be felt in traditional Greek dishes like saganaki, spanakopitas, and Greek salads, highlighting the importance of maintaining the authenticity of ingredients.

As the feta cheese shortage continues to unfold, businesses are closely monitoring the situation to ensure that they can provide their customers with the best possible dining experience. The demand for feta cheese remains high, and businesses are exploring alternative options while staying true to the essence of Greek cuisine.

Overall, the feta cheese shortage serves as a reminder of the fragility of the food supply chain and the importance of supporting local businesses during challenging times.