Randy Chandler
Swiss Colony is a company that sells meat and cheese products, including summer sausages and cheese bars. Summer sausage, a type of cold cut, is typically eaten cold or at room temperature and does not require refrigeration until after it is opened. While it is often eaten as a snack or on a sandwich, it can also be grilled or added to salads. Swiss Colony offers a range of gift assortments that pair their sausages with complementary cheeses, such as Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby Cheese. These gift boxes vary in weight and the number of items included.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Eating temperature | Cold or at room temperature |
| Storage | Does not need to be refrigerated until opened |
| Use cases | Snack, sandwich, salad, grilled |
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What You'll Learn
Swiss Colony Beef Log: made of beef and pork, or all beef
The Swiss Colony Beef Log is a type of summer sausage that has been a star of meat and cheese gift baskets for over 45 years. It is made from carefully selected beef that is ground more coarsely than that found in many sausages, giving it a heartier texture. The beef is then flavoured with an exclusive blend of zesty spices and seasonings and smoked using the old-world lactic acid fermentation method, which gives it a distinctive tang. While the exact recipe for this sausage remains a closely guarded secret, it is known that the coarser grind of the meat indicates that it is made with higher-quality beef.
The Swiss Colony was founded in Monroe, Wisconsin, in 1926 and initially sold only cheese. However, recognising that Wisconsin is famous for both cheese and beer, they soon expanded into selling sausages and hams produced in the area as well. For many years, Swiss Colony sold a "Swiss-Style Summer Sausage" made from a blend of beef and pork, as well as a premium all-beef version. In 1969, the all-beef summer sausage was renamed the Beef Log.
Today, the Swiss Colony Beef Log is often served as part of a charcuterie platter, accompanied by complementary cheeses and served with beer or wine. It can also be eaten cold as a snack or on a sandwich, or grilled and incorporated into summer sausage sliders.
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Swiss Colony summer sausage: best served cold
Swiss Colony summer sausage is a delicious Wisconsin tradition. The Swiss Colony, founded in Monroe, Wisconsin, in 1926, initially sold only cheese. However, recognising the state's expertise in sausage-making, the company soon expanded its offerings to include summer sausage.
Summer sausage, like other "cold cuts," is typically eaten cold or at room temperature. It is a fully cooked sausage made from a blend of beef and pork, with a premium version made solely from beef. It is a versatile sausage that can be enjoyed as a snack, on a sandwich, or as part of a charcuterie platter with complementary cheeses and beer or wine.
When it comes to serving Swiss Colony summer sausage, keeping it cold is the best approach. This type of sausage is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, making it the perfect addition to any picnic or outdoor gathering. Its affinity for cheese also makes it an excellent option for gift baskets or holiday treats.
While Swiss Colony summer sausage is typically eaten cold, it can also be lightly grilled and added to summer sausage sliders. This provides a slightly different texture and flavour profile while still showcasing the distinct taste of the sausage. The grilled option is especially appealing when paired with a cold beer.
In terms of storage, Swiss Colony summer sausage does not require refrigeration until after it is opened. This information is particularly relevant when considering the product for travel or gifts, as it provides flexibility and convenience. However, once opened, it should be treated like any other fresh meat product and stored appropriately.
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Swiss Colony cheese: includes cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby
Swiss Colony offers a variety of cheese and sausage products, including the ever-popular summer sausage, a Wisconsin speciality. The company's cheese selection includes cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby varieties, which are often included in their gift assortments.
The Swiss Colony cheese and sausage products have varying shelf lives, depending on the specific item and its ingredients. Generally, these products are designed to be consumed within a certain timeframe for optimal freshness and flavour. While some items may have a "best before" date, others might indicate a "use by" date, which is crucial for food safety.
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby cheeses are typically semi-hard or hard cheeses with relatively longer shelf lives compared to softer cheeses. Unopened, they can last for several weeks to months when properly refrigerated. However, once opened, their shelf life decreases significantly, usually lasting for about two weeks in the refrigerator.
To ensure the longest possible shelf life for Swiss Colony cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby cheeses, it is essential to store them correctly. These cheeses should be kept refrigerated at all times before and after opening. Proper storage helps maintain their quality and prevents premature spoilage.
Additionally, the company's gift assortments, which often include these cheeses, may provide specific storage instructions or expiration dates. It is advisable to check the packaging for any storage guidelines or "best before" dates to ensure the products are consumed at their freshest.
In summary, Swiss Colony's cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby cheeses offer a delicious taste experience, and proper storage ensures you can enjoy them at their best. Remember to check the packaging for specific instructions and always follow food safety guidelines for perishable items.
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Swiss Colony Sausage 'n' Cheese bars: don't need refrigeration until opened
Swiss Colony's Sausage 'n' Cheese bars are a delicious snack option and a great gift idea. The bars come in a variety of options, with different combinations of sausages and cheese. The sausages are typically made from a blend of beef and pork, and sometimes there is a premium all-beef option. The cheese options include vintage cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, Brick, and Swiss.
These sausage and cheese bars are a convenient snack as they do not require refrigeration until they are opened. This makes them ideal for picnics, travel, and gifts. However, once opened, it is important to store them properly in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and quality.
The Swiss Colony has a long history in Wisconsin, dating back to 1926 when it first started selling cheese in Monroe, Green County. Over time, they expanded their offerings to include fine sausages and hams produced in the area, such as the famous Swiss-Style Summer Sausage.
Summer sausage, a type of cold cut, is typically eaten cold or at room temperature and is a perfect addition to a charcuterie platter or a sandwich. It is fully cooked and can be enjoyed as a snack on its own or incorporated into recipes like salads and sliders. Its versatility and flavour make it a popular choice for gift baskets, especially when paired with complementary cheeses.
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Swiss Colony gift baskets: include meat, cheese, and beer
Swiss Colony offers a range of meat, cheese, and beer gift baskets and boxes. The company was founded in Monroe, Wisconsin, in 1926 and initially sold only cheese. However, over the years, they have expanded their offerings to include meat and bakery products.
The Swiss Colony taps into the rich cheese- and sausage-making traditions of Wisconsin to create exceptional gifts for Christmas or any other holiday. Their meat offerings include favourites like hardwood-smoked bacon and glazed hams, while their cheese gifts are equally impressive. In addition to their classic products, Swiss Colony also offers hand-decorated sweets, summer sausages, and cheeses from their own bakery.
One of their popular gift options is the Sausage 'n Cheese Bars Gift Assortment, which includes:
- 5 oz. Sausages
- 7 oz. Cheese Bars (Swiss Bar is 5 1/2 oz.)
- Vintage Cheddar and Monterey Jack
- BEEF LOG ® and Summer Sausages
The gift assortment comes in different sizes, with the largest option weighing 3 lbs. 10 1/2 oz. and including:
- Vintage Cheddar and Monterey Jack
- BEEF LOG ® and Summer Sausages
- Swiss Cheese
- Garlic Summer Sausage
- Colby Cheese
- An additional BEEF LOG ® Sausage
- Vintage Cheddar Cheese
While Swiss Colony does not specifically mention beer in their gift baskets, they do provide suggestions for pairing their meat and cheese products with beer. For example, summer sausage, a type of "cold cut," is typically eaten cold and is often accompanied by complimentary cheeses and served with beer or wine. Swiss Colony also mentions grilling their BEEF LOG® and enjoying it with a "nice cold beer."
Although Swiss Colony does not explicitly state the expiration date of their cheese and sausage products, they do provide some insights through their blog. In one instance, they mention leaving little summer sausages, Cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack under a Christmas tree overnight and questioning whether they are still good. This suggests that leaving these products unrefrigerated for a short period may not necessarily render them unsafe for consumption. However, it is always important to practice food safety and adhere to recommended storage guidelines to ensure the freshness and quality of perishable items.
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Frequently asked questions
Swiss Colony cheese and sausage do not need to be refrigerated until after they are opened.
I cannot find specific information on the shelf life of Swiss Colony cheese and sausage. However, as they do not need to be refrigerated until opened, it can be assumed that they will have a long shelf life.
It depends on the country. For example, some people have managed to take Swiss Colony cheese and sausage to Mexico, but others have had their food products confiscated by customs.
Swiss Colony cheese and sausage should be stored in the refrigerator after opening.
