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An
Hispanic Cheese Primer
The Hispanic population
is the largest and fastest growing ethnic group in the United States. The U.S.
Census Bureau estimated that in 2000, persons of Hispanic origin represented
12.5% of the population. Census projections indicate the Hispanic population
will grow to over 21% by 2050.
The assimilation of this large ethnic population has influenced many facets
of our everyday life and created permanent trends. Consider the proliferation
of Mexican and Latino style restaurants across the country during the past few
decades. Our non-Hispanic population has grown fond of Hispanic style foods
as evidenced by not only the increase in number of Hispanic style restaurants,
but also the ever expanding selection of Mexican and Latino food products
in the grocery store. More and more people are preparing Hispanic foods at home,
from simple tacos to complete meals.
The Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board states that over the period of 1996-2001,
Hispanic type cheeses as a category, grew by 43%. While this is a small category
of all types of cheeses produced in the country, it is growing rapidly.
As the sales of Hispanic cheeses grow, non-Hispanic persons are quickly discovering
how these cheeses are used in various dishes to enhance the quality and flavor
of the food. They are seeking to make these Hispanic foods more authentic. Queso
Quesadilla cheese, not Monterey Jack, should be used in Quesadillas! Hispanic
cheeses are as varied in their flavor, characteristics and applications as are
Cheddar, Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
During the research and development of our authentic Hispanic cheeses,
we conducted extensive sampling with first generation Hispanic persons to ensure
the products had the correct appearance, texture, flavor and performance of
the cheeses found in their native country. This process involved many formulations
and reformulations of cheese culture blends, and refinement of the cheese making
procedures to perfect our cheeses. Our measure of getting it right was when
first generation Hispanic persons sampling the cheeses told us we had gotten
it right! In a recent comparison with other Hispanic cheese brands, a Mexican
gentleman told us, through an interpreter, "The cheeses taste just like those
in my home province in Mexico".
Available
in retail and foodservice cuts, shredded and grated pack sizes.
Private label programs available.
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WISCONSIN
CHEESE.
PRIDE,
OUR SECRET INGREDIENT™ |
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