Cheesemakers Day

Cheesemakers Day

Cheesemakers Day is celebrated on June 18 every year as a way to recognize the craft of cheesemaking and the people who bring us all the varieties of cheeses. 

A brief history of Cheese

Cheese is one of the oldest and most popular foods in the world, with a long and varied history. It has been used as a food, a medicine, and a trade good, and has even played a role in shaping human history. Let's explore the fascinating history of cheese and see how this delicious food has become such a staple in so many cultures.

The history of cheese begins with the domestication of animals, which allowed for the milk of these animals to be used as a food source. The first evidence of cheese production comes from ancient Egypt, where cheese was mentioned in tomb paintings and inscriptions dating back to 4000 BC. Cheese was also popular in the ancient Roman world, where it was often used as a currency and traded for other goods.

In medieval Europe, cheese became an important part of the diet of monks and peasants alike. It was during this time that many of the classic cheese varieties we know today were first developed, such as cheddar, gouda, and brie. Cheese continued to be an important food in Europe during the Renaissance, when it was often served at banquets and used as a gift for royalty.

The Industrial Revolution saw cheese production become more mechanized and efficient, leading to the mass-production of cheese on a scale never seen before. The 20th century saw further innovations in cheese making, such as the development of processed cheese and the introduction of new types of cheese from around the world. Today, cheese is enjoyed by people all over the globe and is a staple in many diets.

The Original Cheesemakers

The early cheesemakers used a simple process to make cheese. They would collect milk from cows, goats, or sheep and then allow it to sit until the cream rose to the top. The cream was then skimmed off and the remaining milk was poured into a container made of cloth or animal stomach. This container was then placed in a cool area to allow the milk to curdle. Once the milk had curdled, the whey was drained off and the remaining curds were pressed into a solid block. This block of cheese would then be aged for a period of time before being eaten.

Cheesemakers today

The process of making cheese has changed very little over the millennia, though there have been some minor innovations. Today, most cheesemakers typically use rennet to curdle the milk, which speeds up the process and results in a more consistent product. While there are several large cheese making companies, the craft of cheesemaking is still a special process that many small cheesemakers still create that is appreciated by many.

How to Celebrate Cheesemakers Day

This is the perfect day to get together with a friend and go to a small cheesemaker's shop and buy some special cheeses. Some local cheesemakers are on farms, some with cafe's or small shops. Find one near you and support these local cheesemakers! And with 100's of types of cheeses, you might be surprised to find your new favorite!