Raw vs Pasteurized Cheese?

Question

I buy an organic cheddar cheese. The package says it is raw, made from unpasteurized milk, then aged for 6 months.

Does the cheese-making process make the cheese "safe?"

Answer 1

Personally, I wouldn't worry. If you're an otherwise healthy adult with a functioning immune system, it shouldn't be a problem. I'm sure it's all inspected before it goes out to make sure it doesn't have any undesirable bacteria hitching a ride.

Food safety has improved dramatically over the years and as long as you're buying from an established source, there's probably no more danger in buying raw than buying Kraft. :P

I really wish the US would relax the pasteurisation laws a bit. I've been lucky enough to spend some time in France where cheese is king and we are missing out on so much good stuff! Enjoy your cheddar, it sounds delicious! ^_^

Answer 2

For me personally - I wouldn't do raw cheese.  I wouldn't care if it were aged or not.

I have my reasons.  Years ago, while living in Italy (back in the 70's) I bought my food local and not from the commissary.  It was cheaper - and I got to know many of the locals, learn the language, etc. etc. etc.

Didn't know it at the time - really didn't even think about it at the time - but somewhere along the line I was exposed to TB - they think from the dairy.

One year of having to take a very NASTY DRUG (INH) - with some very NASTY SIDE EFFECTS - there is just no way now that I would ever eat any type of raw dairy - aged or not.

But that is just me.  Maybe someone can say that such is totally safe.  Just in the back of my mind - I remember all that I went through  - - and I wouldn't be able to put it in my mouth.

With family members that have problems with dairy - I don't even have dairy in the house.

Answer 3

There is so much controversy over this, I'm not even sure what to tell you. Personally I would just stick to pasteurized, especially with that story the other person told. I think Cabot has organic cheese, and if not, most of it is vegetarian at least.

Here is a link about the myths about raw cheese:

http://www.specialtyfood.com/do/news/Vie...

I think it may help. You could also call the company and ask.

Some people think it's tastier and better though.

Answer 4

yes it is very safe