Support and Celebrate American Cheese

Every May, the American artisan cheese community comes together to celebrate American Cheese Month. From farmstead creameries and busy retail counters to distributors and devoted consumers, this is a moment to elevate American cheese, support the people behind it, and invest in the future of the industry.

And if this issue reaches you after the month of May has passed, we hope you’ll still find inspiration in these ideas to help you start planning to have an even bigger impact next year!

At the American Cheese Society (ACS), we see firsthand how deeply connected this community is. Cheesemakers, retailers, distributors, educators, and enthusiasts all play a role in shaping this community that values craftsmanship, innovation and education. American Cheese Month is our collective opportunity to amplify those values and invite more people into the story.

If you’re part of the cheese industry, there’s no better time to deepen that connection than by joining us at the ACS Annual Conference, Stitched Together by Cheese, July 7-10 in Louisville, KY. With planning in the home stretch and excitement building for another incredible gathering, now is the time to register.

WHY AMERICAN CHEESE MATTERS

The American artisan cheese industry continues to evolve in exciting ways. Producers are experimenting with milk types, aging techniques, and regional expressions that rival the most storied traditions in the world. At the same time, the industry faces real challenges from rising production costs, economic uncertainty, and the need for ongoing education and workforce development.

That’s why community support is so important. When you choose cheese made in America, you’re not just buying a product; you’re supporting an entire network of skilled professionals.

SUPPORT THE FUTURE

One of the most meaningful ways to participate in American Cheese Month is by supporting the American Cheese Education Foundation (ACEF), the arm of the ACS, dedicated to advancing cheese education and professional development across the cheese community. Through scholarships, fundraising, and industry support, ACEF is helping cultivate the next generation.

Your tax-deductible donation directly contributes to expanding access to cheese education through ACS Conference scholarships. Whether you’re an industry veteran or a passionate consumer, contributing to ACEF is a direct investment in the long-term vitality of American cheese.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

American Cheese Month thrives on participation, and there are many ways to engage, no matter your role in the industry. The only limit is your own creativity!

For Retailers

Retailers are uniquely positioned to tell the story of American cheese. Consider giving a percentage of sales to ACEF in conjunction with any of these ideas:

• Curated American Cheese Flights

• In-Store Tastings or Meet-the-Maker Events

• Storytelling Displays: Feature cheesemaker profiles

• Social Media Spotlights: Share cheese features

Small touches like labeling cheeses with their origin stories or pairing suggestions can transform a purchase into a storytelling opportunity. ACS has created shelf-talkers for all of our Judging and Competition award winners, and our retailer members have exclusive access. Just reach out to us if you’d like more information.

For Distributors

Distributors play a critical role in connecting producers with markets. This month is a chance to:

• Highlight American producers in catalogs and promotions

• Offer incentives or discounts on cheeses from the Americas

• Educate retail partners

• Collaborate with producers

By prioritizing American cheese in your outreach, you help expand visibility and awareness across the supply chain.

For Cheesemakers

Producers can lean into storytelling and connection:

• Host virtual creamery tours or live Q&A sessions

• Share the seasonal rhythms of cheesemaking on social media

• Partner with retailers for featured promotions or events

• Spotlight the people behind the cheese

For Consumers

If you love cheese, you’re already part of this movement. Your curiosity and enthusiasm are powerful drivers of demand and awareness.

Consider:

• Trying a new American cheese each week

• Asking your local cheese counter for recommendations

• Hosting a cheese tasting with friends focused on American producers

• Sharing your favorites on social media using #AmericanCheeseMonth

• Making a donation, large or small, to ACEF

A COLLECTIVE CELEBRATION

American Cheese Month isn’t just about recognition; it’s about celebration. It’s about ensuring that the next generation of cheesemakers, mongers, and industry leaders has the resources, education, and support they need to thrive.

At ACS, we believe that cheese brings people together in meaningful ways. It connects us to place, to tradition, and to one another. We invite you to celebrate that connection. Taste something new, share a story, support education, and champion the extraordinary work in the industry.

Because when we support American cheese, we’re not just celebrating what’s on the plate, we’re investing in everything and everyone involved in getting it there.

Tara Holmes is the executive director of the American Cheese Society.