Swiss Cheese

Swiss Cheese
The nation of Switzerland produces over 450 different types of cheese — but its most popular export is what Americans know simply as Swiss cheese.

Otherwise known as emmental or emmentaler cheese, you'll recognize this yellow, medium-hard cheese by its large, distinctive holes. Artisans make the cheese with three different bacteria — Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus, and Porpionibacter shermani — each of which eats the lactic acid in the cheese to create the telltale holes.

While Swiss cheese is made in a variety of nations, true Swiss cheese tastes different than other nations' brands. True Swiss cheese is also naturally low in fat and salt, making it a perfect choice if you're watching your weight or looking for a healthy alternative to full-fat cheese.

Other cheese varieties from Switzerland

• While not as popular as traditional Swiss, Gruyère is another Switzerland export that is rising in popularity. This hard cheese has a sweet but salty flavor with earthy, complex undertones. Chefs enjoy cooking with Gruyère because it melts nicely and its flavors don't overshadow other ingredients. Try pairing the delicately flavored Gruyère with Swiss cheese for a unique take on fondue, or as a foundation for a cheese board.
  
  
• Giant Eagle^® carries a unique, domestically produced Swiss-style cheese called Fair Oaks Farms Sweet Swiss. Artisans who make this cheese use fresh milk from Fair Oaks Farms, giving it a smooth texture and distinctive fruity and nutty flavor. Try pairing this cheese with prosciutto or fresh fruit.