Wisconsin Celebrates Its 180th Cheesemaking Anniversary This May During American Cheese Month

Our industry is in for a real treat next month. Not only is May American Cheese Month, but it is also the 180^th anniversary of cheesemaking for the state of Wisconsin, the State of Cheese^®. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin is engaging consumers by highlighting Wisconsin Cheese in stores and restaurants across the country, through virtual events and on social media in a one-of-a-kind celebration that cheese lovers won’t want to miss.

“In Wisconsin, we celebrate cheese bigger and better than anyone, and that’s because cheese is really core to who we are—we’re a state obsessed with making the world’s best cheese,” said Suzanne Fanning, Chief Marketing Officer for Wisconsin Cheese and Senior Vice President at Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. “We know that you don’t have to live in Wisconsin to be as obsessed with cheese as we are, so this May, we are providing opportunities for cheese lovers nationwide to celebrate along with us and discover the true wonders of Wisconsin…our incredible, award-winning cheeses!”

According to the release, Wisconsin Cheese is available in 99 percent of grocery stores across the country. Nearly 6,000 retail locations and over 1,200 restaurants across the nation are putting a spotlight on Wisconsin specialty cheeses for the month of May. Retail promotions at grocery stores such as Murray’s Cheese at Kroger, Albertsons, Jewel-Osco, H-E-B, and more will be highlighting cheeses with the Proudly Wisconsin Cheese^® badge.

Restaurants nationwide will also be joining in on the occasion as many foodservice operators will feature menu items made with Wisconsin Cheese, including some new menu items and limited-time offers. Look for the “Wonders of Wisconsin” menu items at restaurants like Cousin’s, Culver’s, Donato’s, Little Greek Fresh Grill, Minsky’s, Tom & Chee/Goldstar, and Topper’s.

To further engage consumers, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin will be hosting exclusive virtual events to gain invaluable insight from cheesemakers, chefs, and affineurs. Events include:

• Harmonious Pairings: A Night of Music and Cheese
• The Art of Affinage with Expert Eric Meredith
• Cheese, Cheers, and Beers: Game Night Done Right
• Find Your Inner Chef: Cooking School with a Top-Rated Chef

On May 26, Wisconsin Cheese will conclude the month-long celebration with The Great Wisconsin Cheese Raffle: A 180th Anniversary Spectacular, featuring award-winning cheesemakers and surprise celebrity guests, all while supporting a good cause.

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