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The biggest difference between yellow and white cheese
Cheese is a popular food that comes in a variety of colors, flavors, and textures. One noticeable difference between different types of cheese is color. Some cheeses are bright yellow or orange, while others are white. Have you ever wondered why there is such a stark contrast in color? In this article, we will explore the biggest difference between yellow and white cheese and uncover the fascinating history and science behind it.
The origins of cheese color
Cheese made in England several centuries ago had a natural orange or yellow hue. This was due to the diet of the cows that produced the milk used to make the cheese. The cows, especially breeds like Guernsey and Jersey, grazed on grass that was high in beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a pigment found in plants that gives them their characteristic orange color. When cows consumed this beta-carotene-rich grass, it gave their milk an orange hue.
The evolution of cheddar cheese
In the 17th century, cheesemakers in England discovered that by removing the cream from the milk, they could sell it separately and use it to make butter, increasing their profits. However, the cream contained the orange pigment from beta-carotene, leaving the remaining milk and the cheese made from it white in color. This led to the transformation of naturally yellow cheddar cheese into its white form.
Restoring Color: Cheesemakers’ Solution
As white cheddar cheese became the norm, cheesemakers had to find a way to restore the yellow-orange color to their products. Their solution was to add colorants derived from various orange or yellow ingredients. These included marigolds, carrot juice, saffron, and a natural dye called annatto.
Annatto: The Key Ingredient
Annatto is a natural dye derived from the seeds of a shrub called achiote. It has been used for centuries by various cultures for a variety of purposes, including body paint. Today, many cheesemakers still rely on annatto to give their cheeses a yellow or orange hue. It is grown primarily in South American countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru, but it is also grown in other regions such as India, Jamaica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.
The effect on taste and texture
You may wonder if adding annatto or other coloring agents will affect the flavor or texture of cheese. The good news is that these natural colorants do not significantly alter the flavor or texture of cheese. The amount of annatto used is so minimal that it does not impart a distinct flavor. Instead, it provides a subtle nutty and sweet peppery flavor. So you can enjoy your yellow or orange cheese without worrying about any noticeable changes in taste or texture.
Other uses of annatto
Annatto is not only used in cheese, but also finds its way into various other foods. You may be surprised to learn that annatto can be found in popular snacks such as Cheetos and Goldfish crackers, as well as graham crackers, mustard, lemon-flavored cookies, Velveeta cheese, and certain spices. It is a versatile ingredient that adds color without changing flavor, making it a valuable addition to many foods.
Bottom line
The biggest difference between yellow and white cheese is the addition of colorants such as annatto. While historically yellow cheese was the result of the cow’s diet, modern cheesemakers have found ways to recreate this vibrant color. With the use of natural colorants, cheese can now be made in various shades of yellow and orange without compromising its flavor or texture. So the next time you enjoy a slice of yellow or white cheese, you’ll have a better understanding of the fascinating history and science behind its color.
FAQS
Why are some cheeses yellow or orange and others white?
The color difference in cheese is primarily due to the presence or absence of natural or added colorants such as beta-carotene or annatto.
What caused the change from naturally yellow to white cheddar cheese?
In the 17th century, cheesemakers discovered that removing the cream from milk for separate sale and butter production resulted in white cheese. This led to the transformation of naturally yellow cheddar to its white form.
How do cheesemakers restore the yellow-orange color to white cheese?
Cheesemakers use various colorants such as marigolds, carrot juice, saffron, or annatto to restore the yellow-orange color to white cheese.
Does the addition of colorants affect the taste or texture of cheese?
No, the addition of minimal amounts of natural colorants, such as annatto, does not significantly alter the taste or texture of cheese.
Where does annatto come from and where is it primarily grown?
Annatto comes from the seeds of a shrub called achiote. It is primarily grown in South American countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru, but it is also grown in other regions such as India, Jamaica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.
What other foods commonly contain annatto?
In addition to cheese, annatto can be found in snack foods such as Cheetos and Goldfish crackers, as well as graham crackers, mustard, lemon-flavored cookies, Velveeta cheese, and certain spices.