Is cheese supplied from Great Lakes Cheese gluten-free?
Yes, GLC products are gluten-free.
Are products from Great Lakes Cheese rBGH (recombinant bovine growth hormone) or rBST (recombinant bovine somatotropin) free?
No, unless labeled as such.
There's some mold on the cheese. What should I do?
Although most molds are harmless, to be safe, cut away or remove a ½ to ¾ inch of cheese on all sides of the visible mold. The flavor of the remaining cheese should still be fine, however, we recommend using it up as quickly as possible.
How long is my cheese good once it's been opened?
Ideally, cheese is best if consumed within three-to-five days and kept in optimal storage conditions.
How should cheese be stored?
Cheese should be stored at temperatures of 35-45 degrees Fahrenheit. As cheese is subject to picking up odors, it's recommended it be stored out of airflow within the refrigerator to prevent flavor contamination from other stored foods.
If the original or manufacturer's packaging is removed, rewrap the cheese tightly with plastic film, closeable plastic bags or foil to prevent air pockets around the cheese. To help protect the cheese from molding and/or to help slow down the molding process, keep the cheese in an air-tight container as much as possible.
Can cheese be frozen?
We don't recommend freezing our cheeses, as it could affect the quality of the product. If you do choose to freeze, it's recommended the cheese be thawed out in the refrigerator and used as soon as possible after thawing.
What does the 'use by/sell by' code on the package mean?
The "use by/sell by" code means that if all the manufacturer's packaging seals aren't compromised/opened and the product is stored at the recommended temperature range (35-45 degrees Fahrenheit), the product should maintain its quality and flavor characteristics. The zipper, if applicable, isn't considered a manufacturer's packaging seal.
Is there lactose in Great Lakes' cheeses?
All cheeses start with a level of lactose, but as they age, those levels dissipate. Lactose levels in cheese are very low, but there might be trace amounts.
If you're concerned, consult your dietician or family physician prior to consumption.
Does your cheese contain animal derived enzymes/cultures?
Microbial based enzymes are used in the production of most Great Lakes Cheese natural cheeses. Some cheeses do use lipase to provide distinct flavor development. Typical cheeses that use lipase enzymes are Provolone, Romano, Asiago, Fontina, Feta, and Blue Cheeses. Lipase enzymes may be animal or microbial based, and as such, would not be suitable for a vegan or lacto-ovo vegetarian diet. Please contact Great Lakes Cheese, and provide product UPC, for more product information.
Are there antibiotics in Great Lakes Cheese products?
Great Lakes Cheese complies with FDA’s Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) and its regulations regarding milk receiving and antibiotics. Milk must be tested for the antibiotics as listed in the regulation, and if positive, the milk may not be used for human consumption.
Are there allergens used in Great Lakes Cheese products?
Please refer to product labeling for product allergen information.
Are there genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Great Lakes Cheese products?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn't issued a code of federal regulation for the food industry. Therefore, at this time, we can't identify our products as GMO-free.
Does Great Lakes Cheese use sustainable palm oil in their products?
Yes, we use sustainable palm oil in the production of our processed cheeses.