New research* by the Stilton Cheese Makers Association (SCMA) shows that cheese is an essential ingredient for 72% of Brits, with 25% using it in their cooking once a week, 28% using it twice a week, 15% three times a week and a further 11% using it four to six times a week. Two percent of those questioned said that they cook with cheese every day and 17% said they use it less often than weekly.
Underlining its place in British food, the research also confirmed the dishes which include cheese eaten which are eaten by Brits in a typical month:
The SCMA is urging consumers to buy Stilton® and other British cheeses as sales of Stilton® dropped by up to 30% during the coronavirus pandemic to support the industry and prevent producers going out of business. Stilton® is a unique British cheese which is rich and versatile, livening up mealtimes whether it is on a cheeseboard or in everyday dishes, helping consumers create inspiring recipes and support British dairy farmers.
Commenting on the findings, Robin Skailes, Chairman of the SCMA and Director of Cropwell Bishop Creamery, said:
“British cheeses like Stilton are an essential part of the nation’s eating and cooking habits and our research highlights the variety of meals where cheese is a key ingredient. As an industry, we are keen to that British consumers continue to buy cheese and support our cheesemaking heritage.”
Stilton® is the UK’s most popular blue cheese, which was first written about by Daniel Defoe in the early 18th century and now holds a unique status in British culture – it is the only cheese in the UK with a certificated trademark to protect its British heritage, so it can only be made following a time-honoured tradition. It was the first British cheese to be awarded the protected designation of origin status (PDO) giving it the same status as champagne.
To protect such an important part of the UK’s cheese-making heritage, the SCMA is calling on consumers to buy Stilton® rather than continental blue cheese, reminding them that it is as versatile as any blue cheese from France or Italy. Stilton® has a creamy texture and savoury flavour, which ensures it can be easily paired with a range of food and drink. Its subtle umami note creates inspiring dishes when it is used as an ingredient in your favourite recipe.
