Parmigiano Reggiano is a product deeply rooted in the Emilia region — made from fresh milk, artisanal cheesemaking traditions and a maturation process ranging from 12 to as long as 48 months. As the cheese ages, it develops distinctive nutritional and sensory qualities, namely natural digestibility as well as concentrated proteins and minerals, that make it suitable for every stage of life.
Whether supporting children’s growth, helping adults maintain balanced nutrition or promoting the well-being of older people, understanding its properties and knowing how to include it in a healthy diet means choosing an ingredient that combines taste, quality and health. In this article, we explore the characteristics of this cheese, its benefits and how it can be integrated into everyday eating habits.
Parmigiano Reggiano: key properties and nutritional composition
The properties of Parmigiano Reggiano stem from the combination of a traditional production process — using only milk, salt and rennet — and a long maturation in controlled environments. Over time, the cheese develops its unique aroma, flavour and structure. From a nutritional perspective, it is particularly rich: 100 grams contain around 33 grams of high-quality protein. Thanks to the action of lactic ferments during maturation, Parmigiano Reggiano is naturally highly digestible, making it suitable both for growing children and for people with slower digestion or specific dietary needs.
Alongside protein, it provides calcium and phosphorus, two essential minerals for healthy bones and teeth. A single serving of Parmigiano Reggiano can cover a significant share of the recommended daily calcium intake, supporting bone development in childhood and helping maintain bone mass in older age. It also contains vitamin A and B vitamins, important for energy metabolism and immune function.
Another key advantage is that Parmigiano Reggiano is naturally lactose-free. Proper long ageing eliminates lactose completely, making it a suitable choice for people with mild intolerance who still wish to enjoy a flavourful, high-quality cheese.
Benefits of Parmigiano Reggiano for different age groups
Parmigiano Reggiano is an extremely versatile ingredient and naturally adapts to the nutritional needs of people of all ages. Its proteins, calcium and vitamins make it a valuable ally for children’s growth as well as a daily nourishment capable of supporting the well-being of adults and older people. Its digestibility also makes it easy to incorporate into family meals as a balanced and flavourful ingredient.
Parmigiano Reggiano and children
For children, Parmigiano Reggiano offers important nutritional support during growth. Calcium and phosphorus contribute to strong bones and teeth, while proteins with high biological value provide the building blocks necessary for developing tissues. Its natural digestibility makes it suitable even in early childhood, when the digestive system is still delicate.
Parmigiano Reggiano can be introduced from the first weaning foods, initially grated in small quantities, and later used regularly in soups, vegetables and simple everyday dishes. Its lactose-free nature is an additional advantage, making it a good option for children with mild lactose intolerance without compromising on taste.
Parmigiano Reggiano: benefits for adults
In an adult’s diet, Parmigiano Reggiano offers a balanced supply of proteins, minerals, and vitamins — ideal for supporting the pace of daily life. Its high protein and calcium content make it an excellent choice for those who play sports or wish to maintain an adequate diet without sacrificing flavour.
Thanks to its satiating effect, it can be a nutritious, quick snack or a flavour-enhancing ingredient for salads, first courses and side dishes without making them heavy. Its nutritional profile and ease of use make it a valuable ally in maintaining a varied and complete diet.
Parmigiano Reggiano for older adults
For elderly people, Parmigiano Reggiano is particularly beneficial due to its high digestibility and concentration of nutrients. Calcium and phosphorus help maintain bone mass, while easily absorbed proteins support muscle maintenance — an important factor as muscle loss becomes more common with age.
Its vitamins and natural lactose-free composition make it a safe, flavourful choice that can be added to warm dishes, soups or vegetables.
How to include Parmigiano Reggiano in a balanced diet
Parmigiano Reggiano is extremely easy to incorporate into daily meals, thanks to its versatility and complete nutritional profile. It can be used as a seasoning or as an integral part of a dish, adapting to the needs of every age group. Portions vary depending on the context: 5–10 grams grated are ideal for adding flavour without overdoing it, whereas 20–30 grams in shavings make a balanced, protein-rich snack.
Parmigiano pairs beautifully with soups, pasta, vegetables and salads, but it is also excellent on its own — perhaps accompanied by fruit or a handful of nuts for a balanced snack. Younger versions are perfect for delicate recipes or more frequent use, while longer-aged ones add depth to more structured dishes or can be enjoyed alone to appreciate their complex nuances.
In sum, Parmigiano Reggiano is a cheese full of flavour and rich in nutritional properties, making it suitable for every stage of life. From supporting children’s growth to promoting the well-being of adults and older people, it is a natural choice for anyone seeking a healthy, digestible product deeply connected to its regional heritage. Visit our online shop and choose your preferred ageing: bring home the authentic flavour of a wholesome and delicious cheese.
