What do you think of when you hear the words “American Cheese Month”? As someone with a background in more cultured (if you’ll excuse the pun) cheeses, I shuddered when I first heard the phrase. Would we really be celebrating processed cheese slices? Was this some sort of clever marketing ploy by “Big Cheese” to tempt consumers away from natural cheeses?
Then I thought about things a little bit more, and realized that it was not a celebration of processed cheese singles, but a celebration of cheese made in America, processed or not. Yet still, when Head Cheese Bob approached me about joining in this promotion, I hesitated. I had concerns about how the public would perceive the campaign. I assumed that they would react the same way I did and flock to the shop looking for processed American cheese. Why not call it “United States Cheese Month” instead?
Bob then explained to me that the title, while a bit controversial among the cheese community, was completely intentional. Using the title American Cheese Month is a step towards reclaiming the phrase American Cheese and using it as a term that every cheesemaker in the United States can be proud to apply to their cheese. American cheese is so much more than what you can find at your local grocery store – it’s small batches of handmade artisan cheese, large scale production cheeses, and absolutely everything in between.
Now knowing this, what is your favorite American cheese? How do you plan on celebrating American Cheese Month?
-Sarah
From the American Cheese Month website:
What?
American Cheese Month is a celebration of North America’s delicious and diverse cheeses, and the farmers, cheesemakers, retailers, cheesemongers, and chefs who bring them to your table.
When?
October 1- 31, 2012.
Where?
Wherever there is cheese and wherever there are cheese lovers. American Cheese Month is your chance to spread the word, experience great American cheeses, and help support and promote great cheese, local communities, and passionate producers.
Who?
Everyone who loves cheese!
Why?
To recognize and raise awareness of the quality and diversity of American cheeses
To support and promote great cheese, local foods, family farms, traditional methods, and sustainable production models
