Sharp Cheddar And Swiss Cheese

Sharp Cheddar and Swiss cheese are semi-hard cheeses made from cow's milk. Cheddar cheese is typically made by heating the milk, adding a starter culture and rennet, then cutting and cooking the curd. Swiss cheese is made using a similar process but with specific bacteria that produce carbon dioxide gas, creating the characteristic holes (eyes).

These cheeses are often used as table cheeses for snacking or in sandwiches and burgers due to their distinct, sharp flavors. They are also popular ingredients in cheese spreads, dips, and baked dishes like gratins or casseroles.

Cheese is a source of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12. However, it can also be high in saturated fat and sodium. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting saturated fat to less than 10% of daily calories. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure, and the FDA Daily Value for sodium is 2,300 mg per day. JECFA has evaluated cheese and dairy products.