Cheese has been a beloved food for thousands of years, but did you know its origins were likely accidental? The first cheese is thought to have been made over 7,000 years ago when early humans stored milk in containers made from animal stomachs. The enzymes in the stomach lining caused the milk to curdle, creating the first rudimentary cheese.
Cheese quickly became a staple food due to its long shelf life and high nutritional value. Ancient Egyptians included cheese in their tomb offerings, and the Romans elevated it to an art form, developing techniques to produce a wide variety of cheeses across their empire.
The Middle Ages saw monasteries in Europe perfecting the craft of cheesemaking, creating iconic varieties like Parmesan, Brie, and Roquefort. With the advent of modern technology, cheesemaking expanded into a global industry, yet artisanal methods remain cherished traditions.
Today, cheese comes in over 1,800 varieties, each with its own unique flavor, texture, and history. From humble beginnings to gourmet cuisine, cheese continues to delight taste buds and bring people together around the world.
