National Cheddar Day

National Cheddar Day History

National Cheddar Day celebrates one of the most famous cheese types in the United States. Cheddar cheese is a hard, sharp-tasting, natural cheese that carries a pungent flavor. What separates it from other cheeses is how it is handled after the heating process. A process called cheddaring is used that involves stacking cheese curds on top of one another and squeezing out extra whey. The result is a denser, crumbly texture. It is believed that cheddar cheese originated in the 12th century in Somerset, England. Today, more than a third of all the cheese sold in the United States is cheddar.

National Cheddar Day was created in 2019 by cheese manufacturer Tillamook. It is observed annually on February 13th.

Facts about National Cheddar Day

• According to cheese.com, Joseph Harding is known as the father of cheddar cheese for his cheese making techniques. Harden described the ideal quality of cheddar cheese as close and firm in texture, mellow in character or quality, rich with a tendency to melt in the mouth and [it] has full and fine flavor somewhat like hazelnut.
• There are several types of cheddar cheese according to Cabot cheese. The difference is in the aging process:
  1) Mild Cheddar Cheese - Aged 2-3 months
  2) Sharp Cheddar Cheese - Aged about 12 months
  3) Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese - Aged 12-18 months
  4) Premium Cheddar Cheese - Aged 2-5 years
• Cheese has many health benefits. It contains protein and calcium and other nutrients like phosphorus, zinc, and vitamins A and B12. Cheddar cheese isn't the healthiest option, but it still contains many good nutrients. According to preventcancer.org, cottage cheese is one of the healthiest cheese options.
• Cheddar cheese is over a thousand years old. Its age and popularity have made it one of the most studies and researched types of cheese.

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Top things to do for National Cheddar Day

• Enjoy cheese paired with your favorite wine. According to cabotcheese, intense flavored cheeses pair well with Pinot noir or Cabernet while milder cheeses pair well with Merlot or Chardonnay.
• Visit a cheese shop and browse their selections.
• Host a cheese and wine night for friends and family. Have everyone bring their favorite win and cheese.