Le Braison
arrives
BY A J FLICK
Sheep’s milk cheese from France is tongue-pleaser
Step aside, raclette There’s a new melty cheese in the United States
Meet Le Braison, a rich sheep’s milk cheese from France, imported by Lactalis American Group under its Président brand and soon to hit specialty cheese shops and retailers nationwide
What sets Le Braison apart from many other cheeses is that it comes ready to heat and enjoy
“It’s a new cheese in general, but more so in the United States,” said Laure Menke, marketing manager import brands Lactalis American Group “There’s a trend in France that’s even more popular now regarding hot box cheeses ”
Le Braison comes packaged in its own box, ready to pop into the oven, barbecue rack or even an air fryer After only a few minutes, it’s ready to be dipped into
Lactalis has been introducing the cheese at
U S t r a d e s h o w s , i n c l u d i n g t h i s y e a r ’s S u m m e r F a n c y F o o d S h o w a n d t h e Inter national Dairy Deli Bakery Show
Le Braison was inspired by popular sheep’s milk products such as Valbreso, made from Lacaune sheep that graze on plateaus in Roquefort-sur-Soulzon in the south of France While thick and rich, Le Braison tastes similar to other sheep’s milk cheese by having a sweeter edge than cow’s milk cheese
“The concept is just like Mont d’Or, which is the product that’s been trending in France, to eat the hot box cheese in a shareable moment,” Menke said
Lactalis is counting on U S consumers i n c o r p o r a t i n g L e B r a i s o n i n t o t h e i r o w n shareable moments
“Le Braison has a stronger taste than cow’s milk cheese,” Menke said “Everybody who has tried it is in love with the product
can be easily reheated
The U S market for sheep’s milk cheese pales in comparison to other countries While the Asian/Pacific region accounts for 40 percent of the global market and Europe accounts for 25 percent, the U S market stands at 15 percent, according to IndustryARC
“It is a type of cheese that’s considered more elevated than others,” Menke said
Sheep’s milk cheese carries a higher price point, as the milk is harder to
“Right now, we’re coming up on the holiday season, which makes it perfect timing to launch,” she said “But it’s also great for the warmer months at cookouts
“We’ve gotten great feedback from one of our premier customers,” Menke said “We’re looking forward to launching it ”
Cheese lovers who may have had undesirable results warming Camembert or Brie, only to have them bur n or explode, will love Le Braison’s oven-ready box
“After 20 minutes, tops, it’s melty and gooey in the middle, perfect for dipping vegetables or bread into,” Menke said “I would also try it with meat, beef, dipped into it ”
Le Braison is best served on a warming platter to keep it gooey, but it
harvest than cow’s milk While the price point has yet to be determined, Menke said it should be about $16 per package
While specialty cheese shops are a prime destination for Le Braison, Melke said, “We’re thrilled to be able to expand it into larger retailers
“It’s a specialty cheese that we’re now building awareness about and people are wanting to try it ”
While Le Braison is a tongue-pleaser, it might be more of a tonguetwister for Americans
“People will find their own way to pronounce the name,” Melke said cheerfully “The crowd who is interested in it probably has some knowledge of French We think they will keep an open mind on how to pronounce it We’re not worried about that ”
Big Mozz
nugget
Creates Bite-Sized Snack of fun
Big Mozz, maker of the first premium mozzarella stick, has launched Big Mozz Nuggets, a bite-sized, shareable and poppable way to enjoy a vmozzarella stick
Big Mozz Nuggets are made with only fresh, high-quality ingredients, including 100 percent whole milk Mozzarella (no processed, part-skim string cheese here) breaded and seasoned with fresh garlic, parsley and real Pecorino Romano cheese Available now at select retailers including The Giant Company, Stew Leonard’s, DeCicco’s and Foodtown, and on BigMozz com with more national distribution announcements coming soon
Every mozzarella stick in the freezer aisle has been the same since the ’80s – made with low quality cheese, cheap breading and artificial ingredients In 2015, Big Mozz started hand-crafting fresh mozzarella sticks that were made with real, fresh ingredients and nothing else
Well, that impressed New York City’s most discer ning foodies who kept coming back for more at the food festivals, arenas and stadiums where Big
Mozz Sticks were b
Now, Biz Mozz is d
category at retail
same unmatched quality at home with Big Mozz Sticks and now Big Mozz Nuggets ready to enjoy in minutes
“For over a decade, millions of people have been served authentically crafted Big Mozz Sticks at events and music festivals around the country and then we ventured into retail a little over a year ago with great success,” said Matt Gallira, founder of Big Mozz “There hasn't been enough innovation in the mozzarella stick category, so we are thrilled to launch Big Mozz Nuggets, a poppable version of our beloved sticks at retail and to offer consumers a way to enjoy Big Mozz in a fun, new format!”
Organic Valley Greenest Ads Create
BUZZ
ads are reused as feed or fencing
The Greenest Ads are the result of a collaboration between Organic Valley farmers, their cows and a team of experts in grazing, fencing and aerial photography Organic Valley designed the ads to catch the attention of passengers flying over the farms and to spark curiosity about the organic practices that protect the environment and produce high-quality dairy products
Organic Valley, the leading farmer-owned organic cooperative, has unveiled an innovative way to create ads: cows grazing pasture to spell out letters Cows on three Organic Valley farms across the country are eating pasture grasses around strategically placed fences that form the word “BUZZ-WORTHY” and an emoji-like bee
The ads are eye-catching, environmentally friendly and beneficial for the ecosystem They provide habitat for pollinators, such as honeybees, and prevent soil erosion and water runoff All materials from the zero-waste
“I love talking about how buzz-worthy organic farming is, but seeing life in those letters, seeing monarchs and other wildlife in the field, that’s really special,” said Melissa Weyland, an Organic Valley farmer from W isconsin
The Greenest Ads can be seen from planes flying over farms in Maryland, Minnesota and W isconsin, as well as on social media Organic Valley has also created a landing page on its website, where visitors can lear n more about the campaign, the farmers and the environmental benefits of organic farming
Kerrygold
launches
1-Pound Butter Sticks
Kerrygold, an inter national brand of Or nua, has introduced a new format of pure Irish grass-fed butter: Salted and Unsalted 1-Pound Butter Sticks Rolling onto store shelves across the United States now with four 4-ounce sticks per 16-ounce box, Kerrygold 1-Pound Butter Sticks are an allpurpose, all-natural butter, perfect for baking, cooking, or serving tableside with every meal
I t ’s t h e s a m e butter consumers know and love, now available in a larger format Because when it comes to butter, m o re i s a l w a y s better
T h e b r a n d ’s rich and creamy line of butters are made with milk from Irish grass-fed cows and slow chur ned for a smooth finish Free from artificial flavors or preservatives, the new 1-pound butter sticks are made with milk rich in naturally occurring beta carotene, which is present in the lush green Irish grass that Kerrygold cows enjoy year-round That gives
Mike’s Hot Honey GETS the Goat (Cheese)
Sweet heat cravings are on the rise and Montchevre, the leading U S goat cheese brand, is launching Montchevre Mike’s Hot Honey Goat Cheese, a collaboration with Mike’s Hot Honey to bring the trending sweet heat flavor to its award-winning goat cheese The first brand collaboration from Montchevre, Montchevre Mike’s Hot Honey Goat Cheese flavor innovation brings a playful combination of creamy tang cut with the sweet heat of hot honey for a sweet and savory flavor profile
“We’re always looking ahead to what's next in order to bring consumers innovative, fun new goat cheese pairings,” said Jenny Englert, marketing director of Saputo USA, maker of Montchevre “The sweet heat of Mike’s Hot Honey pairs perfectly with the tangy freshness of our goat cheese for a memorable bite every time ”
The ingredient pairing meets ongoing consumer desire for adventurous flavor mashups in the goat cheese category This flavor innovation is bold enough to stand on its own on a crisp cracker or slice of fruit yet fits perfectly in a variety of recipes for charcuterie boards, salads, sandwiches, pastas, pizza and more
Kerrygold butter its robust, natural, golden color and creamy texture “We’re doubling-down on the love our fans have for Kerrygold butter by doubling the number of sticks in these packs,” said Lauren Arffa, head of innovation, Or nua Foods North America
“We know consumers have been craving a 16-ounce size butter
provide a solution for
pound sticks – the No 1 category innovation this past year ” The 1-pound Salted
Sticks stay true to the Kerrygold tradition of producing flavorful, creamy, and all-natural dairy products, hailing straight from 14,000 small Irish family farms that provide premium-quality milk for Kerrygold products Kerrygold farmers are members of local milk cooperatives, owned by the farmers themselves, and these co-ops help preserve family farming traditions that have been passed on for generations
“I have always loved adding a drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey to goat cheese because the combination of honey and chili peppers pairs so well with the cool creaminess of the cheese,” said Mike Kurtz, founder of Mike’s Hot Honey “It made perfect sense for Montchevre to add a kick of sweet heat to their product so consumers can enjoy the delicious taste in the same bite
“We can't wait for people to try the new Montchevre Mike’s Hot Honey and all the ways they can enjoy it ”
Montchevre Mike’s Hot Honey Goat Cheese will be available in a 4ounce log format in grocery retailers nationwide
Wisconsin earns honors for
excellence cheesemaking
W isconsin is a world of cheese in just one state, ear ning 92 total awards in 52 different classes at the 2024 American Cheese Society Competition Awards Ceremony held in Buffalo, N Y
T h e A m e r i c a n C h e e s e S o c i e t y C o n f e re n c e a n d C o m p e t i t i o n i s renowned for its rigorous judging process, which evaluates cheeses based on flavor, texture, aroma, and appearance W isconsin cheesemakers’ dedication to their craft and commitment to excellence were evident in the numerous awards they received
W isconsin’s cheese industry has a long-standing tradition of excellence, from its humble beginnings dating back to before W isconsin became a state The knowledge and expertise that is passed down through generations instills a passion for perfection and the highest quality cheesemaking
Today, rooted in heritage and bolstered by innovation, licensed W isconsin cheesemakers craft more than 600 varieties and styles of cheese
“ We a re e x c e p t i o n
outstanding achievements at the American Cheese Society Conference and Competition,” said Chad Vincent, CEO, Dairy Farmers of W isconsin “These awards not only recognize the hard work and dedication of the cheesemakers, but also highlight the state’s commitment to producing exceptional cheeses of a vast assortment of types and styles ”
W isconsin cow-dairy award winner highlights include:
• Pleasant Ridge Reserve from Upland’s Cheese in Dodgeville was recognized as one of the Top 10 cheeses in North America
• Klondike Cheese Company of Monroe ear ned 15 awards for its labneh, various feta varieties, smoked gouda, tzatziki dip, brick and muenster
• BelGioioso, of Green Bay stood out with its Italian-style cheeses,
bringing home 14 awards
• Marieke Gouda, of Thorp brought home six cheesemaking honors for c h e e s e s j u
style, Inter national-style and cold-pack cheese classes
• B o t h S c h u m a n Cheese/Lake Country Dairy of Turtle Lake and Pine River P
cheesemaking quality
• Henning’s Cheese of Kiel ear ned four accolades at the 2 0 2 4 A
Henning, the 17-month and 23-month-old cheddars received second and first awards, respectively
• Additional W isconsin Cheese and Dairy company wins include:
• Three awards for Landmark Creamery, LLC,
• Two awards each for Arena Cheese, Cedar Grove Cheese, Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese, Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery, Kingston Cheese Cooperative, Renard’s Cheese/Rosewood Dairy, Sartori Company, The Artisan Cheese Exchange, W idmer’s Cheese Cellars, Inc and V&V Supremo Foods,
• And one award each for Chalet Cheese Coop, Emmi Roth, Hill Valley Dairy, Hook’s Cheese Company, Inc , Nasonville Dairy, Inc and Organic Valley
For more information about W isconsin’s award-winning cheeses and the state's vibrant cheese industry, visit www wisconsincheese com
Crave Brothers Earns Honors at 2024 ACS Competition
Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese took home two top five accolades at the 2024 American Cheese Society Judging & Competition ACS judges were impressed by Crave Brothers’ Fresh Mozzarella ball and Marinated Fresh Mozzarella Ciliegine, both ear ning third place honors in hotly contested categories
The prestigious ACS Judging & Competition is an annual showcase of the best products and recognizes exceptional American cheeses and their makers The competition is one of the largest in North America and is renowned for its high standards and rigorous judging This year’s competition gar nered more than 1,500 entries from over 200 companies
“We look forward to ACS each year because we know the competition is highly competitive, but putting our handcrafted cheeses up against the best of the best is a challenge we enjoy,” said Roseanne Crave, sales and marketing manager “We’re proud to continue our tradition of making award-winning cheeses with an unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability ”
Crave’s award-winning products are the perfect way to elevate re c i p e s w i t h q u a l i t y i n g re d i e n t s a n d r i c h f l a v o r Tr y F re s h Mozzarella for a Margherita pizza or Marinated Mozzarella balls go great in a variety of side dishes
Kellanova introduces
Cheez-It Brand to UK & Ireland
Cheese lovers can finally get their hands on Cheez-It snacks available in nearly 7,000 grocery stores in the United Kingdom and Ireland The iconic brand known for its cheesy, crunchy and satisfying snacking experiences arrives across the pond with a reformulated recipe for Cheez-It Snap’d, featuring an extra thin, crispy texture and distinct flavors to appeal to European sensory and taste preferences
“We have big ambitions for our Salty brands in Europe and for CheezIt to be a category growth driver because it is unlike any product in the snack aisle thanks to its unique texture and flavors,” said Tracy Murphy, vice president Europe Salty Snacks, Kellanova “While Cheez-It Snap’d is a new brand and product in Europe, our goal is to replicate the success the brand has found in the U S
“We’re launching with a strong lineup featuring five different pack formats across three unique flavors to allow us to win across many retail channels, serve consumer needs across multiple locations and generate consumer awareness through showstopping marketing execution ”
A billion-dollar brand globally, Kellanova attributes the Cheez-It brand’s success to continuous innovation through flavor, texture and format and a strategic global expansion initiative The brand has developed new products including Cheez-It Puff ’d and Snap’d available in single serving, multi- and large-pack formats in seven countries, including the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Australia and now the United Kingdom and Ireland
Additionally, Cheez-It has ramped up marketing across key regions to accelerate growth In the UK and Ireland, the brand’s debut is supported by a nearly $20 million integrated marketing campaign led by Leo Bur nett spanning TV, social, radio and OOH, with above-the-line activity supported by PR and experiential from T in Man Communications T itled “Cheez-Hit? Cheez-It” with certain ads featuring the slogan “Crunch it Taste it Feel it Cheez-It,” the campaign aims to create brand intrigue
and engagement while also highlighting Cheez-It’s unique sensory and taste experience
European love of cheese runs deep, which Kellanova acknowledged in bringing Cheez-It to Europe According to a recent One Poll survey of 2,000 European adults who consume cheese, 1 in 5 said they eat cheese at least once a day, with 46 percent admitting they couldn’t live without it in their daily diet
They prefer cheesy, creamy, smoky and spicy flavors and extra crispy, baked textures, according to a Kellanova Europe consumer study Across European countries, there is a growing demand for spicy flavors, with Circana data from 2019 to 2023 showing a 23 percent spicy flavor growth on average
In response to local taste preferences, Cheez-It Snap’d is made with an extra thin, crispy exterior, 100 percent real cheese and reduced sodium and saturated fat in adherence to European nutritional guidelines and Kellanova’s commitment to promoting wellbeing The snack launches in the United Kingdom and Ireland with three flavors: Double Cheese, Cheese & Chilli, and Cheese, Sour Cream & Onion Double Cheese was a natural choice based on the brand’s heritage Cheese & Chilli aligns with Europe’s spicy flavor trend and Cheese, Sour Cream & Onion will cater to cravings for cheesy and creamy flavors Cheez-It Snap’d is available in small individual packs and larger sharing bags
“The Cheez-It brand’s Europe launch reflects our dedication to offering products that cater to local consumer food preferences, adhere to stringent quality and health standards, and align with our global mission to support wellbeing,” said Rob Kelly, vice president Europe R&D, Kellanova “Our Cheez-It fans all over the world trust us to deliver exciting creations, so you can expect more innovation, as Cheez-It can be transformed into different types of products and packages for many occasions and tastes ”
new Forever Cheese unveils
look
for Drunken Goat
it pays tribute to its Protected Designation of Origin, known as Queso de Murcia al Vino in Spain Forever Cheese co-founder Michele Buster created the brand The Drunken Goat in 1996 to help sell the cheese and bring awareness to the region and for her efforts, received an award from the gover nment of Murcia, Spain
The cheese’s success in the United States is in part to its creative and memorable name The new label evokes that playfulness in its retro but moder n look and main goat character, lovingly known as Madge
Forever Cheese, a specialty cheese pioneer of over 25 years, has revamped the look of its b e s t s e l l i n g g o a t c h e e s e T h e D r u n k e n G o a t T h e updated label brings a fun new look to the popular cheese brand, centering on the “drunken” goat character, a nod to the Murciana goats that provide the milk for the cheese and the red Monastrell wine in which the cheese is soaked
Made in Jumilla, Spain, The Drunken Goat is known for its iconic violet rind and its approachable, fruity flavor that has tur ned the hearts of many a professed goat cheese hater
The refreshed label is a celebration of the legacy of the cheese Firstly,
“The Drunken Goat is a beloved brand and we want people to be as excited about the branding as they are about the cheese,” explains Chelsea Bryant, marketing manager “Its new look is fresh, fun, and simple, and brings attention to what makes this cheese so special – the Murciana goats behind it, the wine in which it’s soaked and its status as a DOP cheese from Spain
“The eye-catching goat and bold colors make it stand out in a cheese case, inviting a broader audience to discover this one-of-a-kind specialty goat cheese ”
The Drunken Goat is available in wheels, mini wheels and wedges and can be found in cheese shops and grocery stores nationwide Forever Cheese will continue rebranding the rest of its specialty goat cheese line, including The Smokin’ Goat, The Naked Goat and The Truffle Kid, and plans to debut them by early 2025
“We are very excited to have the ParmCrisps manufacturing family join our team,” said Aaron Greenwald, founder and CEO of Our Home “The combination of our Sonoma Creamery and ParmCrisps talent will drive tremendous IP and knowledge sharing, benefitting both brands, our retail partners and most importantly, our consumers ” ParmCrisps are high-protein, low carb cheese crisps and snack mixes ParmCrisps offers consumers a guiltf re
without compromising on flavor ParmCrisps launched in 2017 and has rapidly gained a market-leading position and strong brand loyalty
Our Home will add ParmCrisps to its family of brands
along with its production facility in York, Penn This acquisition bolsters Our Home’s cheese crisps offerings and combines complementary manufacturing, innovation and distribution capabilities following this year’s acquisition of Sonoma Creamery ParmCrisps’ strong brand recognition and positioning within the cheese crisp category continues a path forward for Our Home to provide its customers with quality snacks they know and love
A Dutch Masterpiece debuts
A Dutch Masterpiece, the award-winning
Gouda, made using milk from North Holland
a
d Designation of Origin), ensures the cheese is
Rembrandt is aged 12 months, featuring smooth, bold flavor with caramel notes an crystallization
A Dutch Masterpiece is a true Dutch traditi The classic yet unique collection of prem
D cheesemaking
Savor the full-bodied flavor of Frans Hal delicate fruity flavor of Vermeer 6-Month PD the sharp taste and delicious texture of Rem 12-Month PDO These cheeses are perfec cheese board and entertaining with family and friends
Josh Rosen, brand manager of FrieslandCampina Consumer Dairy, said, “The New Rembrandt 12-month PDO is an exciting and flavorful cheese
Rembrandt EXPANDS Lifeway Foods
Kefir Distribution to South Africa
Lifeway Foods, Inc , a leading U S manufacturer of kefir and fermented probiotic products, has announced the brand’s first expansion of kefir distribution in the South African market The offering of Lifeway Kefir and ProBugs, exported from the United States, is shipping and available on shelves there now
The retailers will be a mix of independent and health food stores, along with limited initial placements at established chains such as Pick n Pay and Shoprite
“We are excited to introduce the U S kefir leader to consumers in South Africa,” said Lifeway President and CEO Julie Smolyansky “Lifeway is taking a thoughtful approach to global expansion and seeking out markets that are primed for success and can be accessed without major capital investment
?The trends around cultured dairy drinkables have never been better, and I look forward to strategically building the Lifeway business worldwide ”
According to Global Market Insights, the global kefir market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 6 3 percent and reach $4 9 billion by 2032
New 12-Month PDO
uct
A Dutch Masterpiece cheeses are as much a k of art as the innovative and prolific Golden painters for which they are named,” he d “Distinctive in flavor like the artists’ ckaging, the design frames the distinctive atures of each painter, their formative work nd the unique age and tasting notes of each ward-winning cheese in our masterpiece ollection ”
Look for this award-winning collection which includes:
• Rembrandt: Traditionally ripened for one year, this award-winning Extra Aged Gouda Cheese has a firm texture, robust f
available in the new 12-Month PDO
• Frans Hals: A rich aged Dutch goat matured up to six months, made from 100 percent goat s milk to create a unique full-bodied taste and delicate aroma
• Vermeer: Traditionally ripened for six months and stamped with PDO, this award-winning aged Dutch Gouda cheese has a delicate fruity taste
Lioni Latticini Co-Founder hono
Lioni Latticini, Inc, well-known producer of fresh mozzarella, burrata and bufala cheese products featured its Caciocavallo di Salvatore, named in remembrance of co-founder Salvatore Salzarulo, at this year’s Summer Fancy Food Show
“This distinguished, handcrafted cheese was my father’s final deliverance, a personification of the sentiments and passion of his legacy,” said Teresa Conforte, vice president of marketing
T h e S
, a traditional stretched curd cheese made from the highest quality whole cow’s milk Lioni sources this milk from local farms and ages the Caciocavallo for three months, using ageold techniques to achieve a smooth semi-soft light-yellow cheese with a relatively thin rind that intensifies with age This authentic, Italian, locally made cheese is mild with a buttery flavor and creamy texture
proud of it, so it is an absolute privilege to share this work by continuing to produce the most consistent and highest quality Caciocavallo in the United States ”
Lioni hosted Executive Chef Salvo Locastro, founder of CasaSalvo on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, at their Fancy Food show booth for a special
“My uncle and I took on this project together because we believed that every household should enjoy this traditional mild Italian cheese as much as we did,” said Production Manager Sal Salzarulo “He was extremely
years of experience and expertise in culinary arts including five-star hotels
restaurants in Italy
W ith his recent opening of CasaSalvo, LoCastro has received significant recognition in both the New York T imes and Forbes magazine CasaSalvo is an espresso bar and an Italian specialty food market featuring Italian pantry staples that include Lioni’s traditional fresh mozzarella products
Foodservice
Belle Chevre, CHEVOO Introduce items
Belle Chevre Inc , a pioneer in artisanal goat cheese products celebrating its 35th anniversary, has launched two additions to its foodservice portfolio: 1 5-ounce portion cups of spreadable goat cheese under its eponymous brand and a 2 3-pound tub of flavored goat cheese cubes marinated in extra virgin olive oil blends under its CHEVOO brand
Belle Chevre’s 1 5-ounce portion
c u p s o f s p re a d a b l e g o a t c h e e s e , available in Original, Honey and Fig flavors, are the only portion-size cups of spreadable goat cheese available i n t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s T h e y w e re created for various outlets such as b a g e l s h o p s , g r a b - a n d - g o establishments and airlines Other foodservice providers such as caterers and cheese board makers will also appreciate the individual cups of goat cheese offered in three flavors
While jars of CHEVOO’s marinated chèvre are a favorite among cheese
b o a rd m a k e r s , t h e c re a m y, s p re a d a b l e c u b e s a re a l s o appreciated by chefs for the multiple culinary usages The 2 3-pound compact, resealable tub for foodservice operators contains 75 fresh goat cheese cubes steeped in the brand’s proprietary EVOO blends Available in five flavors: Original (Smoked Salt & Rosemary), Urfa Chili & Lemon, Herbes de Provence, Italian Black Truffle and Dill Pollen & Garlic
CHEVOO’s pre-cubed goat cheese addresses the need of chefs and foodservice operators for portion-controlled products as well as a desire for convenient, healthy and u p s c a l e a d d i t i o n s
menus Not only is CHEVOO versatile and easy to use
flavored EVOO can be used as
vegetables and proteins
“In a landscape marked by a surge in food delivery, a quest for healthier options, and a continued interest in new flavors, we believe our new formats will meet these
Pierre Guérin, president and co-owner “By providing our unique cheeses in foodservice formats, we offer solutions for operators seeking to enhance their menus with new flavors and health-conscious offerings, all while controlling costs ”
Belle Chevre Inc continues its tradition of excellence in artisanal goat cheese products with the introduction of these innovative foodservice offerings From portion-sized cups to flavorful goat cheese cubes, these additions underscore Belle Chevre's dedication to culinary innovation and customer satisfaction
FEATURED PRODUCTS
Bellwether Farms Whole Milk Basket Ricotta
As many fans of Bellwether Farms already know, delicious, authentic ricotta is one of life’s simple pleasures and is arguably the most enjoyable by itself with a spoon Whole Milk Basket Ricotta’s smooth, creamy, pillowy-soft texture and delicate, slightly sweet flavor make for an indulgent snack, dessert, a star in a variety of savory dishes –and everything in between
In accordance with Bellwether Farms’ motto, “Whole is better,” Bellwether Farms’ hand-dipped Whole Milk Basket Ricotta is made from whole, full-fat Jersey cow milk straight from healthy, happy cows. The Whole Milk Basket Ricotta is even housed in its original draining basket, another touch that harkens back to the days of artisanal cheese-production and makes it truly unique
To lear n more about Bellwether Farms’ Whole Milk Basket Ricotta, how #WholeIsBetter and for a
Crave Brothers Mascarp one
Crave Brothers Mascarpone elevates your specialty cheese or deli section during the holidays – but did you know it is also sure to exceed your expectations in the fall, too?
Crave Brothers Mascarpone is a blank canvas that creates the perfect marriage with all things fall including flavors of pumpkin spice, caramel and pecan!
customers to explore new trends or ideas through cross merchandising. Pair our sweet cream Mas-
carpone with anything from jams, pumpkin and nuts
“ We a re d e l i g h t e d t h a t o u r
Whole Milk Basket Ricotta is res-
o n a t i n g , b e c a
s
i t ’s a p
u c t w e a re p a r t i c u l a r l y p ro u d o f , ” s a y s L i a m C a l l a h a n , o w n e r o f Bellwether Farms “We hear from f o l k s a l l t h e t i m e t h a t t h e y ’ v e
n e v e r h a d r
o n t h e m a r k e t , a n d y o u c a n re -
a l l y t a s t e t h e d i ff e re n c e We c a n ’t t h i n k o f a b e t
store locator, visit bellwetherfarms com Founded in 1986 in Sonoma County, family-owned and operated Bellwether Farms lovingly crafts dairy products using whole, full-fat sheep’s milk and cow’s milk With a fervent commitment to traditional, artisanal techniques, Bellwether Farms’ small-batch cheeses and yogurts are found in grocery stores nationwide and have won dozens of awards. One percent of Bellwether Farms’ sales go to organizations providing hunger relief or food-related education Visit online to lear n more and follow on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter #WholeIsBetter
Bellwether Farms www bellwetherfarms com
Odyssey Mediterranean Feta Dip
Klondike Cheese Co introduces a creamy, fresh, award-winning
has meticulously crafted with its award-winning dairy and the finest ingredients.
Odyssey® Greek yogurt and Feta cheese blended dip with Mediterranean inspired spices, vegetables and olives This delicious dip is based on a family recipe that it
The new Feta Dip joins the Odyssey brand lineup of four additional Greek yogurt-based dips, which come in Bell Pepper, French Onion, Southwest and Tzatziki flavors
Odyssey Mediterranean Feta Dip is only 40 calories per 2-tablespoon serving, but does not sacrifice flavor, since it is made with Odyssey’s award-winning, rich and creamy Greek yogurt and fresh, tangy Odyssey Feta.
Odyssey www.odysseybrands.com
With this in mind, the best way to strategize this fall is to utilize your ability to educate, inspire and cross merchandise. Consumers are eagerly ready for new ideas for the kitchen
Suggest things like pumpkin cheesecake bars or a Mascarpone dessert board. Showcase the flavor combos for this season through in-store demos and face to face interactions with your customers
Create opportunities for your
Tomme S aint Georges
Tomme Saint Georges is a traditional sheep milk cheese, aged for a minimum of seven months, in the Occitanie region in the southwest of France
This Tomme takes its name from the village where its recipe was created: Saint Georges. It
Crave Brothers will be sure to continue to produce the highest quality Mascarpone to empower you and your team to reach your end consumers If you have any questions, please reach out to Roseanne Crave, Sales and Marketing Manager at Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese, or visit the website for more ideas!
Crave Brothers roseanne@cravecheese com www.cravecheese.com
and Libya was brought to Western Europe with the crusades in the 12th century. Of course, it involves a princess and a dragon Tomme Saint Georges comes from a 20-pound wheel that gets creamier with aging and combines the nuttiness and sweetness of the sheep milk cheeses originating from the southwest of France except that it is a bit creamier than could be expected from a hard pressed cheese It retains a fresh cream flavor, which along with its affordable price point make it a great everyday sheep’s milk cheese
comes from a region that has a rich cheesemaking tradition dating back to the dawn of time It recreates the flavor that could have been found around the times the Saint Georges legend appeared The legend originally from Turkey
Because it is 100 percent sheep’s milk, it melts beautifully, which makes it a very versatile cheese Let yourself be transported back to the Knight Time with Tomme Saint Georges
Lactalis American Group www lactalisamericangroup com
FEATURED PRODUCTS
Odyssey Naturally Smoked Feta
Klondike Cheese is venturing out to a new jour ney of smoked cheese. Odyssey® Naturally Smoked Feta is sure to please cheese lovers across the board Sprinkle on your salad, pizza or mix it into your Tex-Mex dish. This naturally smoked feta features a smokey, salty, tangy and yet creamy finish
Being a family-owned and -operated Wisconsin cheese and dairy company, Klondike Cheese sources its milk from neighboring farms to create the highest quality products possible. Once Klondike Cheese starts the state-ofthe-art crafting of the feta, it goes into a smoking chamber and receives a natural hickory smoked cure.
Odyssey brands continues to produce award-winning cheeses with the highest quality milk. Like
Luke Buholzer of Klondike Cheese replied, “Smoked Feta is the perfect addition to our line of flavorful Feta cheese The level of smoke in the Feta is light, so it does not overpower the other flavors but helps build a more complex flavor ”
its traditional and other flavored feta, the smoked feta is low in calories and provides the calcium needed for strong bones Odyssey smoked feta comes in 8ounce retail chunks and 6-pound loaves.
Odyssey www.odysseybrands.com
Formaggio Brand Ar tisan Wraps
Brace yourself for a bite-sized love affair with Formaggio Brand’s Artisan Wraps – where savory perfection wraps itself around sticks of creamy, fresh mozzarella Imagine this: bold, handpicked slices of Italian-style meats hugging tender mozzarella sticks, a pairing so flawless it feels like destiny Chorizo, Applewood Prosciutto, Imported Prosciutto, Soppressata, Pepperoni, Hard Salami and Genoa Salami – all wrapped around fresh mozzarella in a dance of flavors that ignites your palate
Ideal for indulgence seekers, Artisan Wraps bring effortless elegance to any occasion, whether
These wraps are more than food – they’re a ticket straight to the rolling hills of Italy, where every ingredient is kissed by tradition and passion Each bite blends the smooth richness of award-winning fresh mozzarella with the robust charm of premium meats, sending your taste buds on a whirlwind adventure
Le Gruyère AOP
Le Gruyère AOP is produced using raw milk and is natural There are no additives, no GMOs and no preservatives Le Gruyère
AOP is naturally gluten and lactose free
Each wheel of Gruyère AOP is aged for a minimum of five months before being released for sale and can be aged for between 14 and 18 months It can be kept
for more than 24 months, for cheese lovers looking for an even stronger flavor. A wheel of Gruyère AOP weighs between 25 and 40 kilograms What does AOP mean? Protected Designation of Origin. To be considered AOP, you have to have a tradition, a limited production zone, a name, a knowhow, a history and a product. The production process has been maintained since the origins of Gruyère AOP back in the year 1115 and is strictly respected by the milk producers, the cheesemakers and the affineurs who follow the rules of the AOP specifications
Le Gruyère www.gruyere.com
Bonnie’s Jams Red Pepp er Jelly
Red Pepper Jelly has always been a favorite in the American South Bonnie created this signature flavor based on a delicious version from a dear friend in Alabama After a lot of experimentation in her kitchen, and a lot of tasty samples shared with friends, Bonnie created her signature Red Pepper Jelly for
folks to enjoy at home Made using fresh sweet red peppers, seeded habanero, cider vinegar and sugar, it’s the perfect combination of sweet and heat.
Bonnie’s Jams 209.814.2871 www bonniesjams com
Cello Simple Pleasures Trays from S chuman Cheese
it’s a cozy night in or a grand feast Available in 22-ounce and 18-ounce trays for sharing – and smaller retail options for your personal indulgence – they make charcuterie boards pop and appetizers unforgettable One bite, and you’re swept away to Italy, where each flavor whispers a love story from the heart of la dolce vita
Formaggio Brands www formaggiocheese com
After winning a gold sofi award for its Cello Copper Kettle Snack Packs, Schuman Cheese debuted a handful of products at the Summer Fancy Food Show, including Cello Simple Pleasures Trays Carefully curated by cheese experts, each Simple Pleasures tray includes a selection of premium Cello cheeses paired with delicious quality snacks that can be enjoyed separately or even better together! Simple Pleasures Trays are preportioned, ready to serve and made up of creative combinations
of delicious flavors and textures that perfectly complement each other These trays can be served
as an appetizer, or as part of the popular grazing table trend
Schuman Cheese www.schumancheese.com
PRODUCT
A M E R I C A N I N T E R N AT I O N A L
Whole Milk Basket Ricotta
Buholzer Brothers[R] Gouda
Odyssey[R] Feta Chunk In Brine
Marinated Ciliegine Fresh Mozzarella
Oaxaca Bites
Bellwether Farms 707 763 0993 www.bellwetherfarms.com
Klondike Cheese Company 608 325 3021 www klondikecheese com
Klondike Cheese Co 608 325 3021 www klondikecheese com
Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese LLC 920 478 4887 www cravecheese com
Hispanic Cheese Makers –Nuestro Queso 847 502 0934 www hcmakers com
Whole Milk Basket Ricotta starts with rich, whole Jersey cow milk produced on its neighbors’ farms Bellwether Farms first cultures the milk to bring out its delicious flavors and then slowly heats each batch in small kettles until the curds form Sold in its original draining basket, this unique ricotta is known for its pillowy texture MSRP: $7 99
The new variety of Buholzer Brothers Gouda cheese is available in 6-ounce retail chunks, 5-pound loaves and 15-pound long johns Gouda is a great melting cheese with its creamy, rich, nutty and mellow flavor, great for a quick charcuterie board or your next sandwich
Traditional 8-ounce chunk brine is an authentic way to taste feta in the family line up of Odyssey Feta Cheeses. With the exceptional mouth-feel and freshness you get from the cheese packaged in a brine solution, you can be guaranteed the highest quality taste and great flavor
Marinated Ciliegine Fresh Mozzarella is an appetizer in a cup This fresh, milky cheese meets a perfect blend of Italian seasonings and olive oil. It is not only a great item for customers to take home, but you can add value to your deli bar and other store applications using this! MSRP: $3 99
Hispanic Cheese Makers – Nuestro Queso offers an extensive line of high-quality authentic Mexican, Caribbean and Central American style cheeses and creams for private brands, co-packing and ingredient customers Its state-of-the-art, SQF 3 0-certified plant enables the company to offer the gold standard in food safety. The company helps customers build their own brands with ser vices, support and innovation
Buholzer Brothers Brick Cheese
Crave Brothers Farmers Rope String Cheese
Colby Cheese
Natural White Cheddar Cheese Curds
Klondike Cheese Company 608.325.3021
www buholzerbrothers com
Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese LLC 920 478 4887 www.cravecheese.com
Widmer’s Cheese Cellars Inc 920 488 2503 or 888 878 1107 www widmerscheese com
Ellsworth Cooperative Creamer y www ellsworthcheese com
Buholzer Brothers Brick cheese is offered in 6-pound loaves and 8-ounce chunks Great for Detroit-style pizzas and melting on sandwiches Check out other available flavors in the Buholzer Brothers family, which include Muenster, Havarti and flavored Havartis
Crave Brothers Farmers Rope String Cheese, YUM, a nostalgic favorite! It strings apart, and melts the same as the traditional string cheese Add versatility to your shelf to draw your consumers in for a closer look 12 12-ounce rope coils, with 150 days shelf life Ask your distributor today MSRP: $5 39
First produced in Colby, Wisconsin, in 1885, Colby cheese has a mild flavor similar to mild Cheddar It has a firm, open texture with tiny holes Slice it for sandwiches, shred into casseroles or cube for snacks Colby has a sweet, nutty flavor that is mild and meant to be mild, yet nutty and flavorful Retail: $11/pound
Ellsworth Cooperative Creamer y Natural White Cheddar Cheese Curds taste like no other because they are crafted with only rBST-free milk from 450 family farms throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Asiago Vecchio 15 months
Formaggio Brand 845 807 3630
www formaggiocheese com
Lactalis American Group 212 758 6666
www lactalisamericangroup com
Interprofession Du Gruyère +41 29 921 84 10 www gruyere com
Lactalis American Group 212 758 6666 www lactalisamericangroup com
Monti Trentini USA LLC www.montitrentini.com
Formaggio Brand’s Artisan Wraps elevate ever y occasion with the perfect marriage of creamy fresh mozzarella and exquisite Italianstyle meats Salami, Imported Prosciutto, Soppressata and more encase award-winning cheese, offering a luxurious bite Available in club and retail trays, these wraps bring the authentic taste of Italy to your table Retail: $7 99 Club price: $16 99
Tomme Saint Georges is a traditional sheep milk cheese, aged for a minimum of seven months, in the Occitanie region of France It comes from a 20-pound wheel that gets creamier with aging and combines the nuttiness and sweetness of the sheep milk cheeses originating from the southwest of France, except that it is a bit creamier than could be expected from a hard-pressed cheese MSRP: $19 99 per pound
The production of Le Gruyère AOP in the can be traced back to 1115. It is the 100 percent traditional craft and expertise, passed down from generation to generation, that gives Le Gruyère AOP Switzerland its inimitable flavor and impeccable quality The procedure for production of Gruyère AOP Switzerland is strictly specified Milk producers, cheesemakers and affineurs (maturers) respect each of its steps to the letter This expertise has been guaranteed since 2001 through specifications approved by the Swiss Federal Office for Agriculture
Brie L’Indulgent is a triple crème Brie from the Meuse region east of Paris. Unctuous and rich, no wonder it was awarded World’s Best Brie in 2022
This Asiago Vecchio PDO is made exclusively with milk collected on the Asiago Plateau, located in the north eastern part of the Italian Alps. After the natural skimming of the milk, which is made overnight, the milk is transformed in traditional copper vats by Florindo, an expert cheesemaker
Artisan Wraps
Tomme Saint George
Le Gruyère AOP
Brie L’Indulgent
