Frequently Asked Questions

I've heard that cheese is good for my teeth. Is this true?

Yes. Studies show that eating cheese helps prevent cavities in many ways. The calcium and phosphorus found in cheese penetrates plaque surrounding the teeth to re-mineralize enamel and prevent erosion. Cheese also stimulates saliva production to clear away food particles. The protein and fat in cheese protects teeth from cavity-causing acids created as carbohydrates ferment. In fact, many dentists suggest eating a piece of cheese before bed when brushing isn't possible.

I love cheese but I'm also health conscious. Is the fat in cheese a "bad fat"?

No. Cheese contains small amounts of naturally occurring trans fats that are not associated with health problems. In fact, research suggests that the CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) found in cheese may be beneficial to health and protect us from certain types of cancer. Artificially produced industrial trans fats found in vegetable shortening and many commercially produced fried foods are often confused with good trans fats. These bad fats lower good cholesterol and raise bad cholesterol which increases the risk of heart disease. We do need to have some fat in our diets to enable our bodies to process vitamins A, D, E and K. Why not make it a good one like the one found in cheese!

How long can I safely keep cheese?

Cheese that is refrigerated and not exposed to oxygen (sealed in its original package) can be kept indefinitely. Cheddar cheese can be aged for over 10 years in a vacuum sealed package. Once opened, cheeses can be stored for over 8 weeks under the right conditions. Some cheeses may develop undesirable flavours if aged too long.

What is the best way to store cheese?

It is best to store firm and semi-firm cheeses tightly wrapped in plastic film or a sealed container in the refrigerator. Avoid touching unused portions whenever possible as natural bacteria present on hands could promote the growth of mould.

Is it safe to cut the mouldy part off a piece of cheese and eat the part that isn't moldy?

Yes. Surface mould can be trimmed from a block of cheese and the inner cheese may be eaten. Cheese with excessive mould that has penetrated close to the centre should be thrown away.

Can I freeze cheese?

Cheese may be frozen for periods of up to 6 months but firm and semi-firm blocks of cheese like the ones produced by Bothwell will not maintain their texture after freezing. Freezing "un-knits" the curds that have been joined together during the cheese making process to form a block of cheese. This results in excessively crumbly cheese once it is thawed. It is best to shred cheese first if it must be frozen and then use it in cooking. Shredded Bothwell Cheese or SqueaK'rs¨ will freeze well for up to 6 months.

I love cheese but I'm lactose intolerant. Can I still eat Bothwell Cheese?

Bothwell Swiss Cheese is naturally lactose free and can be consumed as a part of a lactose free diet. People with lactose intolerance may be able to accept small amounts of cheese a little at a time. Many people can build their acceptance of cheese by gradually increasing the amount they consume. Lactase tablets may be taken before eating cheese to help digestion. These tablets contain lactase enzyme which exists naturally in the stomach and assists in digesting products that contain lactose. Bothwell's one and two year old aged cheddars are naturally low in lactose and may be easier for people with lactose intolerance to digest.

What is the colouring made from that you use in your cheese?

Bothwell uses an Annatto based colour in their orange Cheddar Cheeses. Annatto is a seed from the achiote tree commonly found in Latin America. Annatto has a similar molecular structure to Beta-Carotene, the substance that naturally makes carrots orange.

Does cheese cause constipation?

No. Cheese itself is not responsible for constipation. A diet containing fibre will alleviate constipation in most people. Foods like prunes and bran are best but fruits and vegetables in general are recommended. Increasing liquid intake and regular exercise are also recommended.

Does Bothwell Cheese contain antibiotics that have been administered to dairy cows?

No. Samples of milk are tested from every batch of raw milk delivered to Bothwell. If even the smallest trace of antibiotic is found the entire load is rejected. Furthermore, growth hormones are not present in any of the milk used by Bothwell. The farms that provide Bothwell with milk maximize their production the old fashioned way, with cows that are healthy and well nourished.