FAQ
- Yes, Armstrong Cheese is proudly Canadian! Founded in 1902 by Canadian dairy farmers, Armstrong Cheese has deep roots in Canada’s agricultural heritage. For generations, our master cheesemakers have passed along their knowledge and expertise to bring you Cheddar Cheese at its best, crafting delicious cheeses that Canadian families know and love.
Click here for Armstrong Cheese's Canadian Dairy Guide. - Armstrong Cheese offers to consumers high quality products using 100% Canadian milk from canadian farmers. We believe the best dairy products start with milk from healthy, well-cared-for animals, and we’re committed to promoting best practices in dairy animal care.
- Yes, Armstrong cheese is real cheese! We make no compromise on taste or quality - our natural cheeses are made from fresh milk and designed to deliver rich, delicious flavour. Armstrong remains the natural choice for classic Cheddar Cheese, offered in a variety of flavours to satisfy even the most demanding cheese lovers. To learn more about natural cheese, please see question below.
- Traditionally, cheese can be classified into two broad categories: natural and processed. These terms have been used in Canada and internationally for many decades. Natural cheeses* are made by first mixing milk and other dairy ingredients with bacterial cultures and enzymes to form curds and whey. After the whey is drained off, many varieties can be created such as Cheddar, Havarti, mozzarella and other firm cheeses. Processed cheeses take these steps further by combining one or more natural cheeses with other ingredients such as emulsifying salts, and then adding a cooking process. These extra steps can impart different flavours and textures to processed cheeses, which makes them ideal for melting and spreading.
*To note: The long-established term “natural cheese” as described here, is not intended to convey the same meaning as “natural” defined in the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Nature, natural - Method of production claims on food labels - Food label requirements - Canadian Food Inspection Agency (canada.ca). For more information, please contact us at 1-800-672-8866. - Well, you’re in luck! Armstrong offers lactose-free cheese options, such as our Swiss Cheese Slices, Lactose Free Triple Cheddar Shredded Cheese, Lactose Free Marble Cheddar Cheese Block, and Lactose Free Mozzerella Sticks! They can all be found at most major grocery stores across Canada. So you can enjoy all the cheesy goodness — no lactose, no worries!
Yes, most of our Armstrong cheeses are vegetarian suitable due to the enzymes being of microbial origin and not of animal origin. The products that may not be suitable and should be checked are the following:
- Our Combos
- Import Cheese- Cellulose is a food-safe ingredient that is commonly used to help prevent cheese shreds from adhering to one another; this avoids the shredded cheese from sticking together in the packaging and allows it to flow easily out of the package.
- Our natamycin is a natural preservative; it can be found naturally in the environment as a result of fermentation. It is commonly used to help prevent and control spoilage, making sure your Cheese Shreds last longer over time, especially when you use small portions at time!
- The shelf life of cheese in the refrigerator depends on the type of cheese and storage conditions. The 'best before' date printed on the packaging is only valid if the cheese remains unopened. Once opened, its longevity varies based on the cheese type, environmental conditions, and handling. For optimal freshness, store cheese properly and check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
- The best way to store cheese will be dependent on the product type, and ensuring your fridge is consistently between 1-3°C (34-38°F). Cheeses like cheddar or brie should be stored in the original packaging until opened. Afterwards, wrap securely in wax paper or parchment, and place in an airtight container. Different cheese types should be stored in separate containers. The containers should be kept in the vegetable or meat drawer of your fridge (where the temperature is most stable). Plastic wrap should be avoided, as it prevents the cheese from breathing, and can trap moisture and promote mold growth.
Did you know that we've got plenty of tips and tricks to help you and your family waste less while continuing to enjoy delicious meals? Read the full article Easy Tips For A Greener Fridge and Pantry! - Armstrong is no longer advising for any of our dairy products to be frozen. There is no food safety risk associated with freezing product. However there could be significant quality impacts such as performance, taste, texture etc. Saputo is not liable for any complaints which occur after freezing product.
- If mold is present on cheese or if the rind is dry and yellowed, you should discard it.
- Wondering if you can eat cheese after the best before date? The short answer is no. The "best before" date indicates how long the product will maintain its freshness, taste, and quality. So, it is best to consume cheese before this date.
- No, our products do not contain nuts or peanuts. We do not use peanut seeds, peanut oil, or any ingredients that could pose a risk for those with a peanut allergy or peanut oil allergy. Our manufacturing processes are designed to ensure safety for individuals with these allergies.
- We can be found in most grocery stores across Canada! But if you can't find our cheeses in your favourite store, ask the manager to stock them for you. We've found that most store managers are very willing to accommodate their customers' needs.
- Although our products are not halal certified, most of Armstrong cheeses are vegetarian suitable due to the enzymes being of microbial origin and not of animal origin. In addition, no alcohol or gelatin are used in the product nor in its manufacturing.
