Kamil Perry
Parmesan cheese is the English translation of the Italian cheese Parmigiano Reggiano, which is strictly protected in Europe under the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) law. This means that outside of Europe, the term Parmesan can be used loosely, and many manufacturers take advantage of this to sell imitation Parmesan cheese. The imitation cheese often contains additives to preserve shelf life and prevent clumping, which can interfere with the taste. While some people prefer the convenience and taste of bottled Parmesan cheese, others argue that authentic Parmesan cheese has a superior flavor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Many believe that freshly grated Parmesan tastes better than bottled Parmesan, although some disagree. |
| Texture | Bottled Parmesan is grated extremely finely, resulting in a powder-like texture that differs from hand-grated Parmesan. |
| Ingredients | Parmigiano-Reggiano can legally contain only three ingredients: milk, salt, and rennet. However, bottled Parmesan often contains additives to enhance shelf life and prevent clumping or melting, which can interfere with taste. |
| Convenience | Bottled Parmesan is more convenient as it saves time and effort in the kitchen and is easier to store than fresh Parmesan. |
| Authenticity | Bottled Parmesan produced outside of Europe may not be authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano, as the name is protected by law in Europe. |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- Kraft Parmesan in a bottle is not considered real Parmesan cheese
- Kraft Parmesan contains additives that are illegal in Parmigiano Reggiano production
- Parmigiano Reggiano is protected by law and can only contain three ingredients
- Bottled Parmesan is more convenient and easier to store
- Some people prefer the taste of bottled Parmesan over freshly grated Parmesan
Kraft Parmesan in a bottle is not considered real Parmesan cheese
The name "Parmigiano-Reggiano" is protected by a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) in Europe, which means that only cheese made in the Italian region of Parma and Reggio can legally be called by this name. Outside of Europe, the term "Parmesan" can be used more loosely, and many imitation cheeses are produced in the United States and South America. These imitation cheeses are far removed from the real Parmigiano-Reggiano in terms of taste and quality.
Kraft Parmesan cheese, with its iconic green bottle and dry powdered form, is one of the most well-known examples of imitation Parmesan cheese. In fact, Kraft was legally forced to stop selling its cheese labeled as Parmesan in Europe due to its deviation from the authentic product. While some consumers may prefer the convenience and taste of Kraft Parmesan, it is important to distinguish it from traditional Parmesan cheese, which has a rich history and is known as the "King of Cheeses" in the dairy industry.
The distinction between real Parmesan cheese and imitation products like Kraft Parmesan is essential for consumer awareness and protecting the integrity of traditional food products. While imitation cheeses may have their place in the market, it is important for consumers to understand the differences in ingredients, taste, and cultural significance when choosing between real Parmesan cheese and its bottled counterparts.
Moldy Parmesan: Safe or Not?
You may want to see also
Kraft Parmesan contains additives that are illegal in Parmigiano Reggiano production
Parmigiano Reggiano is a dry, hard cheese made from skimmed or partially skimmed cow's milk. It is named after two of the areas that produce it, the Italian provinces of Parma and Reggio Emilia. The names Parmigiano Reggiano and Parmesan are protected designations of origin (PDO) for cheeses produced in these provinces under Italian and European law. The name Parmesan is legally used for imitations outside the EU.
Parmigiano Reggiano is allowed to contain only three very simple ingredients: milk (produced in the Parma/Reggio region and less than 20 hours from cow to cheese), salt, and rennet (a natural enzyme from calf intestine). The only additive allowed is salt, which the cheese absorbs while being submerged for 20 days in brine tanks.
Kraft's "Parmesan Cheese" contains three additives that are illegal in the production of Parmigiano Reggiano: cellulose powder, potassium sorbate, and cheese cultures. Kraft's product is so far removed from actual Parmigiano Reggiano that the company was legally forced to stop selling its cheese labeled as Parmesan in Europe.
Some people prefer the taste of Kraft's grated Parmesan cheese over freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. However, it is important to note that processed cheeses often have more "flavor" because it is artificially added. The provenance of the milk used to make Parmigiano Reggiano is well known, and it contains no antibiotics, steroids, or growth hormones.
Parmesan: Cheese or Not?
You may want to see also
Parmigiano Reggiano is protected by law and can only contain three ingredients
Parmigiano Reggiano, also known as Parmesan, is a protected designation of origin (PDO) product. This means that the name Parmigiano Reggiano is protected by Italian and European law and can only be used for cheeses produced in specific regions of Italy, such as Bologna, Reggio Emilia, Mantua, Modena, and Parma. These regions are known for their traditional methods of cheese production, which have been carefully preserved over time.
The strict regulations governing Parmigiano Reggiano ensure that the cheese is made with specific ingredients and methods. The main ingredients used in the production of Parmigiano Reggiano are milk, salt, and rennet, a natural coagulant that helps transform milk into cheese. The milk used must come from cows that feed on grass and hay from local farms, ensuring the highest quality. The production process is closely monitored and must adhere to traditional standards to maintain the integrity of the cheese's flavor, texture, and quality.
The Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano, established by the Italian government, exercises exclusive control over the cheese's production and sale. Each wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano undergoes a rigorous inspection process during the early stages of aging to ensure it meets the required standards. The cheese is then placed in designated storage facilities for aging, further enhancing its unique characteristics.
The protection of the Parmigiano Reggiano name and its regulated production process ensure that consumers can trust the authenticity and quality of the cheese they are purchasing. This legal safeguard distinguishes Parmigiano Reggiano from imitations and guarantees that only cheeses produced in the designated regions of Italy with the specified ingredients and methods can bear the prestigious name.
While some may prefer the convenience and taste of processed cheeses, nothing beats the authentic flavor, aroma, and texture of genuine Parmigiano Reggiano. Its complex flavor profile, granular texture, and high glutamate content contribute to its reputation as the "King of Cheeses." For a true culinary experience, opting for authentic Parmigiano Reggiano with its PDO certification is well worth the choice.
Parmesan vs Mozzarella: Which Cheese is Healthier?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Bottled Parmesan is more convenient and easier to store
While many people prefer freshly grated Parmesan cheese, bottled Parmesan cheese has its advantages. One of the most significant benefits is convenience. Bottled Parmesan cheese saves time and effort in the kitchen, as it eliminates the need for grating the cheese and allows for easy storage. It comes in a shaker bottle, which helps keep the cheese fresh and makes it simple to sprinkle over your favourite dishes, such as pasta, garlic bread, pizza, soups, and vegetables.
The convenience of bottled Parmesan cheese extends beyond its pre-grated form. Its packaging and storage method also contribute to its ease of use. Bottled Parmesan cheese is typically sold in containers designed for even sprinkling, ensuring a consistent distribution of cheese with each use. This feature is especially useful when compared to the traditional method of storing cheese in layers of paper, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming.
Another advantage of bottled Parmesan cheese is its longevity. Unlike a wedge of cheese, which requires specific storage conditions to prevent drying out or mould development, bottled Parmesan is less susceptible to these issues. It can be stored in the refrigerator after opening, ensuring its freshness and prolonging its shelf life.
The pre-grated nature of bottled Parmesan cheese also contributes to its convenience. Grating cheese from a wedge can be a tedious and messy task, requiring specialised tools and generating additional cleanup. With bottled Parmesan, consumers can bypass this process and immediately enhance their meals with a zesty flavour.
While taste preferences may vary, and some may prefer the freshness of grated Parmesan, the convenience and ease of storage offered by bottled Parmesan cannot be overlooked. It simplifies the cooking process, saves time, and provides a quick and consistent way to add flavour to various dishes.
Parmesan Cheese: Natural or Processed?
You may want to see also
Some people prefer the taste of bottled Parmesan over freshly grated Parmesan
While many people prefer the taste of freshly grated Parmesan, some individuals have a preference for the bottled variety. This preference may be influenced by various factors, including convenience, familiarity, and personal taste.
Bottled Parmesan cheese, often found in shaker bottles, offers convenience and ease of use. It saves time and effort in the kitchen, as there is no need for grating or storing the cheese in a particular way. The pre-grated cheese also has a longer shelf life compared to fresh Parmesan, making it a practical choice for those who want to sprinkle cheese on their meals without worrying about storage conditions.
For some, the preference for bottled Parmesan stems from nostalgia and familiarity. Individuals who grew up with the green bottle of Kraft grated Parmesan may associate it with their childhood and the taste of their favorite pasta dishes. The processed and finely grated texture of bottled Parmesan can create a different sensory experience, which some people prefer over the coarser texture of freshly grated Parmesan.
Additionally, personal taste plays a significant role in cheese preference. Some palates may find the flavor of bottled Parmesan more appealing, as it can have a stronger or more consistent taste due to added artificial flavors or additives. Others may simply enjoy the "zing" or "zesty flavor" that bottled Parmesan provides, even if it differs from the authentic flavor of freshly grated Parmesan.
It is worth noting that the term "Parmesan" is loosely used outside of Europe, and the bottled variety may not always contain the same ingredients as traditional Parmigiano Reggiano. However, this does not diminish the fact that some people genuinely prefer the taste of bottled Parmesan. Ultimately, taste is subjective, and individuals are free to choose the type of Parmesan that suits their preferences, whether it be freshly grated or conveniently bottled.
Crystal Farms Grated Parmesan: Gluten-Free Option?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese is the English translation of the Italian cheese Parmigiano Reggiano. Parmigiano Reggiano is made from three simple ingredients: milk, salt, and rennet (a natural enzyme from calf intestine).
Bottled Parmesan cheese is often not real Parmesan cheese. Real Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano Reggiano, can only contain milk, salt, and rennet, while bottled Parmesan cheese often contains additives to preserve the cheese and prevent clumping and melting. Additionally, Parmigiano Reggiano is named for its birthplace, Parma, Italy, and is strictly protected in Europe with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). Outside of Europe, the name "Parmesan" can be used more loosely, and many bottled Parmesan cheeses are produced in the United States or South America.
Bottled Parmesan cheese is convenient and easy to use, with a long shelf life. It is also less expensive than real Parmesan cheese and can be stored in the refrigerator without developing mold. Some people also prefer the taste of bottled Parmesan cheese, finding it more flavorful than freshly grated Parmesan.
