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Whole Foods' 12th Year of 12 Days of Cheese with Incredible Cheeses

2024-12-10

During the 12th day of Christmas, Whole Foods Market treated cheese lovers to an amazing basketload of top-notch cheeses at discounted prices. This annual event, which started in 2012 and is now running from December 13 to December 24, offers Prime members significant savings of up to 35% on each selected cheese. The range of options showcases Whole Foods' global offerings, including France, Spain, Switzerland, and Italy, along with top-tier domestic choices, some of which are exclusive to the chain. The 12 cheeses were carefully selected by the market's specialty cheese team, consisting of certified cheese professionals recognized by the American Cheese Society. As Cathy Strange, Whole Foods' ambassador of food culture and former global cheese buyer for over two decades, says, "The holiday season is all about sharing special experiences, and our 12 Days of Cheese lineup brings together the very best of what I love about cheese: its ability to surprise, delight, and spark connection. Each cheese has a story, from rare, exclusive varieties to familiar favorites, inviting us to explore and savor."

Unlock the Flavors of the 12 Days of Cheese at Whole Foods

Cypress Grove Midnight Moon (California)

Introduced by the California dairy farm in 2002 in partnership with a Dutch producer, Cypress Grove's Midnight Moon is a true classic. Its goat's milk paste is studded with crystals, resembling Gouda. Aged for six months, it develops notes of toasted nuts, salted caramel, and toffee, with a slightly citrusy finish. Strange believes Midnight Moon is an ideal introduction to goat cheese, and the tiny protein crystals add an extra surprise.This cheese pairs beautifully with La Panzanella Mini Original Croccantini crackers, Savannah Bee Company Honey for Cheese, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Genoa Salami, Jacques Bardelot Champagne Brut, BRLO Winter Cider, and Mitica Caramelized Pecans.

Cowgirl Creamery Mt. Tam (California)

Customers can't get enough of Cowgirl Creamery's Mt. Tam from California. With its rich, fudgy interior and a mix of complex flavors, it stands out. Producers Sue Conley and Peg Smith use quality organic milk from Marin County to create an American original. The cheese combines salted butter and mushroomy tones, giving it a savory flavor in a unique paste that maintains its texture.It pairs well with Rustic Bakery Organic Olive Oil & Sel Gris Flatbread crackers, Savannah Bee Company Honey for Cheese, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Prosciutto, Elizabeth Rose Pinot Noir, Brasserie Dupont Avec Les Bon Voeux Saison, and jcoco Dark Chocolate Flight.

Uplands Pleasant Ridge Reserve (Wisconsin)

Seasons play a crucial role in this Wisconsin cheese crafted in the alpine style of Beaufort d’Alpage. Produced only from May through November using milk from grass-fed cows grazing on rotationally grazed land, the seasonal changes influence its taste, which can range from savory and brothy to sweet and tropical. This Gruyére-style cheese has a natural washed rind, giving it a rich and salty body and a long, fruity finish. Made by master cheesemaker Andy Hatch, it is the only three-time winner of the American Cheese Society's Best of Show.It pairs with Rustic Bakery Organic Olive Oil & Sel Gris Flatbread crackers, Dalmatia Organic Fig Chili Spread, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Soppressata, Elizabeth Rose Pinot Noir, Clausthaler Non-Alcoholic Santa Holiday Brew, and Mitica Marcona Almonds.

Sartori Herbs de Provence BellaVitano (Wisconsin)

Strange hails this cheese as "aromatic and delicious" and it is exclusive to Whole Foods Market. Crafted by master cheesemaker Pam Hodgson, it is inspired by Italian farmstead cheeses and marries the tangy flavor of Parmesan with the creamy texture of cheddar. The cheese is encrusted with Herbes de Provence, featuring notes of lavender, parsley, and lemon zest.It pairs with La Panzanella Mini Original Croccantini crackers, Savannah Bee Company Honey for Cheese, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Genoa Salami, Jacques Bardelot Champagne Brut, BRLO Winter Cider, and Mitica Caramelized Pecans.

Jasper Hill Presto Prosecco Washed Harbison (Vermont)

This limited-release cow's milk cheese comes with a unique serving opportunity. Wrapped with spruce bark and washed in Whole Foods' exclusive Presto Prosecco before aging in the Jasper Hill Farm creamery's vaults, cheesemaker Mateo Kehler invented this "spruce-wrapped wonder" after years of studying cheesemaking. The process develops a floral, woodsy finish as it ripens. Slicing the top off the rind round and allowing the cheese's custardy center to warm in the oven until it bubbles offers a self-contained fondue with a piney aroma and flavors of mushrooms and cultured butter.It pairs with La Panzanella Mini Original Croccantini crackers, Savannah Bee Company Honey for Cheese, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Soppressata, Presto Prosecco, Brasserie Dupont Avec Les Bon Voeux Saison, and Mitica Caramelized Pecans.

Vermont Creamery Cremont (Vermont)

A mix of cow's and goat's milks, Vermont Creamery's French-style double-cream cheese has a velvety center and a crinkly, earthy rind that easily melts away. Allison Hooper created "this amazing milk wonder" with flavors of citrus, hay, and a light peppery finish, giving it a distinct profile.It pairs with Rustic Bakery Organic Olive Oil & Sel Gris Flatbread crackers, Bonnie's Jams Cranberry Cherry Cabernet Conserve, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Prosciutto, Jacques Bardelot Champagne Brut, BRLO Winter Cider, and Mitica Caramelized Pecans.

Papillon Roquefort Révélation (France)

Known as the "king of the blues," this raw sheep milk blue cheese from France is aged in the caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, giving it a bold, velvety feel with a peppery, spicy profile that touches on anise and chocolate. The classic French cheese is produced from Lacaune sheep milk matured traditionally and aged in natural caves for at least three months to develop the characteristic veins and complex flavor.It pairs with 34 Degrees Crisps Original Crisps crackers, Dalmatia Organic Fig Chili Spread, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Genoa Salami, Croft Port Reserve Tawny, Lindemans Framboise Lambic, and Mitica Marcona Almonds.

Hervé Mons Pyrenees Brébis (France)

In the forests of the French Pyrenees, Hervé Mons ages his sheep milk cheese for six months according to Basque tradition. The resulting Pyrenees Brébis is nutty and rich with a smooth and creamy texture, and hints of rosemary, hay, and toasted nuts.It pairs with 34 Degrees Crisps Original Crisps crackers, Bonnie's Jams Cranberry Cherry Cabernet Conserve, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Prosciutto, La Coulée Sancerre, Brasserie d’Achouffe La Chouffe Blonde Belgian Ale, and jcoco Dark Chocolate Flight.

Neal’s Yard Dairy Sparkenhoe Red Leicester (England)

Neal’s Yard Dairy's raw cow's milk cheese, Sparkenhoe, with its bright orange color and bold flavors, is an eye-catcher on a cheeseboard. It has an earthy, musty aroma and plenty of citrus punch. This traditional recipe from the British Isles, created by David and Jo Clarke and clothbound and aged, develops a moist, yet crumbly texture.It pairs with 34 Degrees Crisps Original Crisps crackers, Bonnie's Jams Cranberry Cherry Cabernet Conserve, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Soppressata, Croft Port Reserve Tawny, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Celebration IPA, and Mitica Marcona Almonds.

Emmi Kaltbach Cave Aged Le Gruyère (Switzerland)

The sandstone caves that age this Gruyère for 12 months help create rich flavors of brown butter, toffee, and a crunch from the tyrosine crystals. The nutty Swiss cheese develops a fruity tanginess along the way, created by "an amazing third-generation cheesemaker."It pairs with La Panzanella Mini Original Croccantini crackers, Bonnie's Jams Cranberry Cherry Cabernet Conserve, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Genoa Salami, Presto Prosecco, Samuel Smith’s Brewery Organic Chocolate Stout, and jcoco Dark Chocolate Flight.

Ca de Ambros Taleggio (Italy)

Produced in the heart of Val Taleggio in Lombardy, Italy, for generations, this washed-rind cow's milk cheese is aged for 45 days to create a creamy, marshmallow-like interior with a yeasty, roasty rind. Master affineur Luca Arnoldi continues the tradition of his father with this washed-rind mountain cheese.It pairs with La Panzanella Mini Original Croccantini crackers, Dalmatia Organic Fig Chili Spread, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Soppressata, Presto Prosecco, Allagash Brewing Company Ski House Winter Ale, and Mitica Marcona Almonds.

Mitica Alisios (Spain)

The Canary Islands of Spain offer a paprika-rubbed rind with a smooth, mellow paste of cow's and goat's milk cheese. The flavors age over three months to create a mild tang with paprika notes.It pairs with 34 Degrees Crisps Original Crisps crackers, Savannah Bee Company Honey for Cheese, Whole Foods Market Organic Sliced Prosciutto, La Coulée Sancerre, Clausthaler Non-Alcoholic Santa Holiday Brew, and Mitica Marcona Almonds.

In 1990, a significant decision was made by the FDA as they banned Red No. 3, also known as erythrosine, from cosmetics and topical drugs under the Delaney Clause. This move sparked a series of events and petitions that have had a lasting impact on the food and drug industries. The FDA is currently engaged in a thorough review of a petition filed for FD&C Red No. 3, which is authorized for use in food and ingested drugs. The petition emphasizes that the Delaney Clause obligates the FDA to repeal the color additive regulations allowing its use in foods and ingested drugs.

Consumer Reports' Call for Action

Another petition initiated by Consumer Reports has been making waves. It demands that the FDA act promptly to prohibit the use of Red Dye No. 3 in food, medicine, and supplements. This dye, which is known to be a carcinogen, has already been banned in food in the European Union and California starting in 2027. Despite this, the FDA has failed to fulfill its promise of a national ban on this dye in our food products, especially those marketed to children like candy and junk food. It is high time that we remove this unnecessary and dangerous additive from our food.

Understanding the Delaney Clause

Enacted in 1960, the Delaney Clause prevents the FDA from finding a color additive safe if it has been shown to cause cancer in humans or animals at any dose. Color additives, such as Red No. 3, are commonly used in foods in very small amounts and must obtain FDA approval. Red No. 3 is a color additive derived from petroleum that gives foods and drinks a vivid cherry-red color. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), color additives, including FD&C Red No. 3, are subject to FDA approval before they can be used in food, drugs, or cosmetics, or in medical devices in contact with the bodies of people or animals for a significant period.The FDA has evaluated the safety of FD&C Red No. 3 on multiple occasions since its approval in 1969. Currently, there are two authorizing color additive regulations for FD&C Red No. 3 - one for food (CFR – Code of Federal Regulations Title 21 (fda.gov)) and one for ingested drugs (CFR – Code of Federal Regulations Title 21 (fda.gov)). The agency is dedicated to continuously evaluating all relevant scientific information and data when considering whether changes to the food supply are warranted.

Regulatory Approach and Certification

Most color additives, including FD&C Red No. 3, require pre-market review and approval by the FDA. The law demands evidence that a color additive is safe under its intended conditions of use before it can be added to foods. FD&C Red No. 3 is only permitted from batches that the FDA has certified. This means that FDA chemists analyze a sample from the batch and ensure it meets the requirements for composition and purity stated in the regulation for that color additive.When evaluating the safety of a new color additive or a new use for a listed color additive, the FDA considers various factors such as likely consumption amount, intended use, the manufacturing process, and its physical and chemical properties. When the FDA approves the use of a color additive, the regulations specify the products in which it can be used, any maximum amounts allowed, and how it should be declared on the label. In the US, FD&C Red No. 3 must be declared in the ingredient list on food labels by its specific name, such as “FD&C Red No. 3” or without the “FD&C” prefix or the term “No.” - for example, “FD&C Red 3” or “Red 3”. It's interesting to note that in other countries like Canada and Europe, Red No. 3 may be found under a different name, such as erythrosine.

Monitoring and Post-Market Review

The food industry has the responsibility to ensure the safety of the food it markets and meets all FDA requirements. FDA scientists continuously review publicly available information about the safety and toxicology of color additives to determine if their use remains safe under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. This ongoing monitoring is crucial in safeguarding public health.In conclusion, the FDA's stance on Red No. 3 and its associated regulations have significant implications for the food and drug industries. The agency's commitment to evaluating scientific information and data ensures that consumers are protected from potentially harmful substances. By understanding these processes and regulations, we can make more informed decisions about the food we consume and the drugs we take.

An Owasso food pantry is making a significant impact during Christmas by giving back to the community. Tiffany Bell, the director of Neighbors in Need, emphasizes the importance of their Christmas basket giveaway as the largest event of the year. With 200 baskets being prepared and various community groups volunteering their time, it's a heartwarming sight.

"Celebrating Christmas with Neighbors in Need"

Christmas Basket Details

The Christmas baskets are filled with an array of items. They include gift cards for turkeys or hams to ensure a delicious holiday meal. Canned foods add to the pantry's provisions, while cookies and icing bring a touch of sweetness for Santa. For younger kids, there are toys to bring joy, and gift cards for older kids to meet their needs. It's a comprehensive package that makes Christmas special for many families.

Bell shares the emotional impact of seeing people receive these baskets. She recalls instances where people have cried, expressing gratitude for being in a situation where they can celebrate Christmas together. It's a reminder of the power of giving during the holiday season.

15 Years of Serving the Community

This year marks 15 years of Neighbors in Need serving the community. Bell is proud to see the support they have received over the years. It shows how much the community values their work and the difference they make in people's lives.

The fact that the pantry is completely run by volunteers is a testament to their dedication. Bell is grateful for the continued support and hopes to keep the food pantry running for many more years to come, continuing to serve those in need.

Helping Kids with Toys and Gift Cards

Neighbors in Need is committed to making Christmas special for kids. Nearly 550 kids will be receiving toys and gift cards, bringing smiles to their faces. It's an important part of their mission to ensure that every child has a memorable holiday.

The organization relies on the support of the community. You can donate by clicking here to help continue their good work and make a difference in the lives of those in need.