‘Blessed are the cheesemakers’ – a phrase that has been immortalized in the popular 1979 comedy film, Monty Python’s Life of Brian. While the phrase may have been used in a satirical context in the film, it holds a deeper meaning when it comes to the American dairy industry.
As a cheese lover, I have always been fascinated by the variety and quality of cheeses produced in different parts of the world. However, my recent trip to the United States left me disappointed and puzzled. I was surprised to find that the US, a country known for its love for cheese, has strict regulations in place for the production and sale of one of the most popular types of cheese – raw milk cheese.
Raw milk cheese, also known as unpasteurized cheese, is made from milk that has not been heat-treated or pasteurized. This type of cheese is considered to have a more complex and unique flavor compared to pasteurized cheese. However, the sale of raw milk cheese is banned in the US, except for a few specific varieties that are aged for more than 60 days.
This ban on raw milk cheese has been a topic of debate for many years, with some arguing that it is necessary for public health and safety, while others claim it is a violation of personal freedom and choice. As a social scientist, I delved deeper into the issue to understand the reasons behind this ban and its implications.
The regulation of raw milk cheese in the US can be traced back to the 1980s when there were a series of outbreaks of foodborne illnesses linked to unpasteurized dairy products. These incidents led to the implementation of strict regulations by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure the safety of dairy products for consumers.
One of the main concerns associated with raw milk cheese is the risk of contamination by harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria. These bacteria can cause serious illnesses, especially in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, young children, and the elderly. Therefore, the FDA has taken a precautionary approach by banning the sale of raw milk cheese to protect public health.
However, this ban has faced criticism from cheese producers and advocates who argue that the FDA’s regulations are too strict and do not take into account the safety measures taken by the producers. Many artisanal cheese makers, who specialize in making raw milk cheese, follow strict guidelines and use high-quality milk from healthy animals to ensure the safety of their products. They argue that the ban on raw milk cheese is unfair and limits their ability to produce and sell their unique and high-quality products.
Moreover, the ban on raw milk cheese in the US is not consistent with other countries’ regulations. In Europe, raw milk cheese is widely available and is considered a delicacy. The European Union has strict regulations in place for the production and sale of raw milk cheese, but it allows for a wider variety of unpasteurized cheese compared to the US. This raises the question – why is the US so strict when it comes to raw milk cheese?
The answer lies in the concept of American exceptionalism – the belief that the US is a unique and exceptional nation with its own set of values, principles, and practices. This idea of exceptionalism is deeply ingrained in American society and has influenced its policies and regulations. In the case of raw milk cheese, the US takes a more cautious and conservative approach compared to other countries, which may be seen as a reflection of its exceptionalism.
However, this exceptionalism comes at a cost. The ban on raw milk cheese not only restricts consumers’ choices but also limits the growth and innovation of the American dairy industry. Many cheese producers in the US are unable to compete with their European counterparts due to the strict regulations, which hinders the growth of the industry and affects its global competitiveness.
In conclusion, the ban on raw milk cheese in the US is a complex issue that raises questions about public health, personal freedom, and American exceptionalism. While the FDA’s strict regulations may be necessary to ensure food safety, it is important to consider the impact it has on the dairy industry and consumers’ choices. Perhaps it is time for the US to re-evaluate its regulations and strike a balance between public health and personal freedom, while also promoting the growth and innovation of its dairy industry. As the saying goes, ‘blessed are the cheesemakers’, and it is time for
