Page 30 - AMEFT Journal 2021-2

BAKERY
Rising demand for the USA Cheese in the Middle East
The USA Cheese Guild®, responsi- ble for showcasing the creativity and versatility of the USA cheese in- dustry, has witnessed steady growth in the demand for cheese from the USA in the UAE and the wider Middle East thanks to intensive awareness and trade campaigns and increasing consumer demand for new, innova- tive, flavorful, healthy, natural and convenient foods.
In recent years, the USA Cheese Guild has featured a range of the USA cheesemakers to the region resulting in significant inroads into the retail segment with several USA cheeses now available on shelves and deli counters of major supermarket chains in the Middle East.
Chef Antonio El Khoury, Director of Culinary Programs MENA for the USA Cheese Guild said: "The popula- rity of USA cheese is a testament to its quality and varieties that suit every
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taste. With more than 1,000 types of cheese, there are many ways to con- sume the USA cheeses. It is enjoyed around the world as a stand-alone food, as well as a versatile ingredient in food applications to suit every part of the day."
According to the USA Cheese Guild, the United States exports of cheese to the Middle East during 2020 is es- timated at over 16,800 tonnes, worth US$76 million. The UAE accounted for 4,800 tonnes, worth over US$22 million. In total, the United States pro- duces nearly 6 million tonnes a year, which is more than France, Italy, and Switzerland combined.
As part of the organisation’s drive to showcase the range of high-quality cheeses available, and the new and exciting ways of using them in fusi- on and local cuisine, the USA Cheese Guild has undertaken a unique and multi-faceted educational approach
to showcase the quality, taste, health and nutrition of the USA cheese.
The USA Cheese Guild has colla- borated with several organisations in the Middle East. These have inclu- ded a culinary scholarship to allow young chefs to study, work and learn more about the USA cheese in Dubai
(Source: USA Cheese Guild)
(Source: Pixabay; Image by Neil Dodhia)
Chef Antonio El Khoury, Director of Culinary programs MENA for the USA Cheese Guild
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