American Cheese Month draws to a close
American Cheese Month isn’t just about creamy Kraft singles or perfectly meltable Velveeta cheese dip (although, hello!, who doesn’t associate yellow packaged squares with childhood bliss?). It’s a celebration of artisan U.S.-based cheesemakers and their one-of-a-kind creations across the continent.
According to the American Cheese Education Foundation (ACEF), American Cheese Month is “a grassroots celebration of North America’s delicious and diverse cheeses, and the farmers, cheesemakers, retailers, cheesemongers, and chefs who bring them to your table.”
Throughout the month the ACEF, in partnership with willing American cheese champions everywhere, aims to recognize the quality and diversity of American-made cheeses; support local foods, farms, and cheeses; celebrate traditional cheesemaking and sustainable production methods; and raise awareness about American cheese as a whole, emphasizing the value of supporting those who occupy the industry.
As May draws to a close (and designated American cheese appreciation with it), here are some ways you can celebrate artisan products and support your local American cheesemakers:
Host an “American cheese” charcuterie night. Ask guests to bring their favorite American-made cheese variation and a printout that informs others about the creamery it comes from.
Research creameries in your area and schedule a visit (if they allow it). Pack your camera and an appetite!
Find and purchase made-in-North America cheese at the grocery store. American Cheese Month is officially for all of North America. Look for artisan cheeses that are made in whichever country you call home.
Share about the mission of ACEF and American Cheese Month with a friend (or the world). Feeling particularly zealous about the cause? Bring it up during your next social outing or at the dinner table, or post about it on social media.
Visit Hoard’s Dairyman Farm Creamery’s online store and Farm & History page to learn more about the Guernsey milk artisan cheese you know and love.
Hey, we couldn’t not include a self-shout-out in an article about American-made cheese!
Moral of the story: American Cheese Month is an ode to all things craft, farm, family, and good food. Here’s to you and yours.