Cheese curds are a beloved snack in many parts of the world, particularly in the northern United States and Canada. But are they actually illegal in the US?
The answer is no, but there are some regulations surrounding their production and sale. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of cheese curds, from how they’re made to where you can find them.
So grab a fresh batch of curds and settle in for a cheesy journey.
Are Cheese Curds Illegal In Us?
Contrary to popular belief, cheese curds are not illegal in the United States. However, there are regulations in place regarding their production and sale.
Firstly, raw or unpasteurized milk is banned in the US, which means that any cheese made from raw milk is also illegal. Cheese curds are made from pasteurized milk, which is legally allowed.
Secondly, cheese curds must be aged for at least 60 days before they can be sold. This is because young raw-milk cheeses are known to contain harmful bacteria such as Listeria, E. coli, and salmonella. Aging the cheese for 60 days or more helps to eliminate these bacteria and make the cheese safe for consumption.
What Are Cheese Curds?
Cheese curds are small, moist pieces of curdled milk that are consumed as a snack or used in prepared dishes. They are popular throughout the northern United States and Canada, particularly in Quebec and Wisconsin. In fact, cheese curds are a key ingredient in the famous Canadian dish called poutine, which consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
The process of making cheese curds is similar to that of many other cheeses. Fresh milk is pasteurized and rennet is added to help with coagulation. The mixture of curds and whey is gently cooked and then pressed to separate the whey from the curd. The curd is then given a little salt and left to age for at least 60 days before it can be sold.
It’s worth noting that some cheese makers may try to pass off aged cheddar as fresh cheese curds, but this is not the same thing. Cheese curds have a short shelf-life, so there’s more profit in cheese that can sit longer on shelves.
How Are Cheese Curds Made?
Cheese curds are made from fresh pasteurized milk, which is heated to 161 degrees Fahrenheit in stainless steel and then cooled back down. Starter cultures and an enzyme called rennet are added to the milk, which begin to curdle it. The bacteria and enzymes separate the milk into curds and whey.
The curds are then cut into cubes and cooked and pressed to release the whey, creating the final product. Cheese curds have a short shelf-life and must be refrigerated. Some cheese curd “makers” break up aged cheddar into curd-like pieces and sell them as fresh curds, but this is not the same as true cheese curds made from fresh pasteurized milk.
In Wisconsin, cheese curds are considered the freshest form of Cheddar Cheese, with a mild and somewhat salty flavor and a springy, rubbery texture. They can be natural (white) or colored (yellow/orange) based on preference.
While cheese curds are legal in the US, they may not be readily available in all areas due to the regulations surrounding their production and sale. Additionally, since they have a short shelf-life, they may not be delivered daily or on weekends to some areas.
The Legality Of Cheese Curds In The US
Cheese curds are legal in the United States as long as they are made from pasteurized milk and aged for at least 60 days. Raw or unpasteurized milk is banned in the US, which means that any cheese made from raw milk is also illegal. This is because young raw-milk cheeses are known to contain harmful bacteria such as Listeria, E. coli, and salmonella.
To ensure the safety of consumers, cheese curds must be aged for at least 60 days before they can be sold. This aging process helps to eliminate any harmful bacteria that may be present in the cheese, making it safe for consumption.
It is important to note that cheese curds are a regional delicacy in the northern United States and Canada, particularly popular in Quebec and Wisconsin. In Wisconsin, cheese curds are even considered a part of the state’s identity, with fans of the Green Bay Packers football team affectionately calling themselves “cheeseheads.”
While there are regulations in place regarding the production and sale of cheese curds, they are still a beloved snack and ingredient in many dishes. So if you’re a fan of this squeaky treat, rest assured that you can enjoy them legally in the US as long as they meet the necessary requirements.
Regulations Surrounding Cheese Curd Production And Sale
In order to produce and sell cheese curds in the US, there are specific regulations that must be followed. Firstly, the milk used to make cheese curds must be pasteurized, which means it has been heated to a certain temperature to kill any harmful bacteria. This is a requirement in order to ensure the safety of consumers.
Secondly, cheese curds must be aged for at least 60 days before they can be sold. This is because young raw-milk cheeses are known to contain harmful bacteria such as Listeria, E. coli, and salmonella. Aging the cheese for 60 days or more helps to eliminate these bacteria and make the cheese safe for consumption.
Furthermore, cheese curd production and sale are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA has strict regulations on importing cheese, including both the ingredients and the methods by which cheese is processed. Cheeses from certain countries may also be subject to tariff-rate quotas that limit the import quantities based on type and nation of origin.
In addition, cheese curd production and sale are subject to state laws. For example, in Wisconsin, where cheese curds are a regional delicacy, state laws permit cheese curds to be sold up to one day after production without being refrigerated. However, if they have not been purchased by that time, they must be discarded.
Where To Find Cheese Curds In The US
While cheese curds are legal in the US, they may be difficult to find in some areas. They are not typically sold in grocery stores and are more commonly found in specialty cheese shops or directly from cheese makers.
If you’re looking for cheese curds, it’s best to search for a local cheese maker or small factory. These establishments are more likely to produce and sell fresh cheese curds. Keep in mind that cheese curds have a short shelf-life and can get stale quickly, so it’s best to purchase them as fresh as possible.
Some regions of the US are known for their cheese curds. Wisconsin and Minnesota are particularly famous for their breaded and deep-fried cheese curds, while Quebec is known for using them in the popular dish poutine.
If you’re having trouble finding cheese curds in your area, consider reaching out to local food bloggers or cheese enthusiasts for recommendations. They may know of hidden gems or small businesses that produce fresh cheese curds.
Tips For Enjoying Cheese Curds At Home
If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on some fresh cheese curds, here are some tips for enjoying them at home:
1. Eat them fresh: Cheese curds are best when they are fresh and squeaky. They lose their squeakiness and texture as they age, so try to eat them as soon as possible after purchasing.
2. Serve them at room temperature: Take the cheese curds out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before serving to allow them to come to room temperature. This will enhance their flavor and texture.
3. Pair them with other foods: Cheese curds are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Try adding them to salads, sandwiches, or omelets for a delicious cheesy flavor.
4. Fry them up: Fried cheese curds are a popular snack that can be made at home. Simply coat the cheese curds in a batter made from flour, egg, and milk, and fry them in hot oil until golden brown.
5. Pair them with beer: Cheese curds and beer are a match made in heaven. Try pairing your cheese curds with a cold beer for the ultimate snack experience.
Remember that cheese curds are a perishable product and should be consumed within a few days of purchase. Enjoy them while they’re fresh and delicious!
