FAQ
Is Armstrong Cheese a Canadian company?
+
Founded in 1902 by Canadian dairy farmers, Armstrong cheese has stood the test of time. For generations, our master cheesemakers have passed along their knowledge and expertise to bring you Cheddar cheese at its best.
Is Armstrong Cheese made with Canadian Milk?
+
Our natural cheeses are made from fresh Canadian milk and will taste delicious in your recipes. We believe the best dairy products begin with milk from healthy, well cared for animals. We pledge to continue to promote best practices in dairy animal care.
Which cheeses are suitable for vegetarians?
+
Most of our cheeses are vegetarian suitable due to our microbial enzyme coming from Rhizomucor miehei. The products that are not suitable and should be checked are the following:
Our Combos
Processed cheese
Any cheese that mentions meat, lipase or rennet in the ingredient list
Is Armstrong Cheese real cheese?
+
We make no compromise on taste or quality; our natural cheeses are made from fresh milk and will taste delicious in your recipes. Today, we’re proud to say that Armstrong is still the natural choice for classic Cheddar cheese in a variety of flavours to delight the most discerning of cheese lovers. To learn more about natural cheese, please see question below.
What is "natural cheese"?
+
Traditionally, cheese can be classified into two broad categories: natural and processed. These terms have been used in Canada and internationally for many decades. Natural cheeses* are made by first mixing milk and other dairy ingredients with bacterial cultures and enzymes to form curds and whey. After the whey is drained off, many varieties can be created such as Cheddar, Havarti, mozzarella and other firm cheeses. Processed cheeses take these steps further by combining one or more natural cheeses with other ingredients such as emulsifying salts, and then adding a cooking process. These extra steps can impart different flavours and textures to processed cheeses, which makes them ideal for melting and spreading.
*To note: The long-established term “natural cheese” as described here, is not intended to convey the same meaning as “natural” defined in the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Nature, natural - Method of production claims on food labels - Food label requirements - Canadian Food Inspection Agency (canada.ca). For more information, please contact us at 1-800-672-8866.
*To note: The long-established term “natural cheese” as described here, is not intended to convey the same meaning as “natural” defined in the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Nature, natural - Method of production claims on food labels - Food label requirements - Canadian Food Inspection Agency (canada.ca). For more information, please contact us at 1-800-672-8866.
What is cellulose?
+
Cellulose is a food-safe ingredient that is commonly used to help prevent cheese shreds from adhering to one another; this avoids the shredded cheese from sticking together in the packaging and allows it to flow easily out of the package.
What is natamycin?
+
Our natamycin is a natural preservative; it can be found naturally in the environment as a result of fermentation. It is commonly used to help prevent and control spoilage, making sure, your cheese shreds last longer over time, especially when you use small portions at time!
Once I open a cheese, how long will it keep in my refrigerator?
+
The "best before" date printed on a product is valid only when the cheese is unopened. Once the cheese is opened, its shelf life will vary by cheese type and will be impacted by the environmental conditions and manipulation of the product.
What are the best ways to preserve cheese in a refrigerator?
+
Even though most cheeses purchased are wrapped in plastic, plastic wrap is not the optimal answer for keeping cheese fresh in your refrigerator once it is opened. With the exception of soft cheeses sold in tubs and containers, the best way to store cheese is to remove it completely from the original plastic wrap and then re-wrap it in aluminum foil, place it in an airtight container and store it in the vegetable or meat drawer of your fridge (where the temperature is most stable).
Can I freeze cheese?
+
Yes, some cheeses can be frozen, although it may impact their texture and overall characteristics. It is best to freeze cheese in pieces of 500 g or less in an airtight freezer bag for a maximum of two months. It is important to allow the cheese to thaw slowly in the refrigerator before use.
What should I do if there is mould on my cheese?
+
If mould is present on cheese or if the rind is dry and yellowed, you should discard it.
Can I use cheese after its "best before" date?
+
No. The product retains its freshness until the "best before" date.
Do your products contain nuts or peanuts?
+
No, none of our products contain peanuts or nuts.
Does Armstrong offer any lactose-free cheese?
+
Yes, Armstrong Swiss cheese is a lactose-free product.
How can I get my favourite store to carry specific Armstrong cheeses?
+
Customers ultimately determine which products are carried on store shelves. If you don't find our cheeses at your favourite store, ask the manager to stock it for you. We have found that most store managers are very willing to meet the needs of their customers.
