Celebrated: February 13
Say Cheese: It’s National Cheddar Day
February 13 is National Cheddar Day, and it’s time to celebrate a cheese so iconic it needs no introduction. Bold, tangy, sharp or mild—cheddar is the superstar of snack platters, sandwiches, casseroles, burgers, and pretty much everything else.
This holiday was founded by the Tillamook County Creamery Association—one of the biggest names in American cheese—and it honors not just the flavor and versatility of cheddar, but its rich international roots.
Where Cheddar Began
Cheddar cheese gets its name from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England, where cheesemakers began pressing curds and aging wheels in local caves as far back as the 12th century.
From its British beginnings, cheddar has gone global—today, it's one of the most widely produced cheeses in the world, with standout varieties from the U.S., Canada, Australia, and beyond.
Cheddar Fun Facts
- That orange color? It’s not natural! It comes from annatto, a seed-based food coloring.
- “Sharp” refers to age: the sharper the cheddar, the longer it’s been aged.
- Only cheddar made in Somerset can carry the official “West Country Farmhouse Cheddar” designation in the UK.
- Cheddar was part of the U.S. military's rations in WWII thanks to its shelf stability.
How to Celebrate National Cheddar Day
- Create a Cheddar Flight: Sample different ages and regional styles—from Vermont sharp to smoked cheddar.
- Get Cheesy in the Kitchen: Make a cheddar-forward recipe like mac & cheese, cheddar biscuits, or grilled cheese sliders.
- Post Your Plate: Share your cheesiest bites on social using #NationalCheddarDay.
- Shop Local: Support small dairy producers or your local cheese monger.
Need Help Labeling Cheesy Products?
Whether you’re launching a cheddar cracker, a dairy-based spread, or an artisan cheese brand, Certivance can help with:
- Label review
- FDA-compliant ingredient statements
- Standard of identity guidance
- Allergen compliance
