PROFECO Unveils the Secret of Fake Cheese

The Federal Consumer Protection Agency (PROFECO) has uncovered the mystery behind 'imitation cheese,' shedding light on a secret that could change consumer perceptions of some dairy products on the market. This analysis is crucial for protecting the public from deceit and ensuring transparency within the dairy industry. For milk producers and genuine cheese manufacturers, this information is vital in distinguishing their authentic dairy products from imitations.

Imitation cheese, often sold at significantly lower prices, isn't made predominantly from milk or raw milk like real cheese. Instead, it employs a mix of vegetable fats, starches, soy proteins, and other additives to mimic the texture and appearance of cheese. This represents not only a consumer deception but also a significant difference in nutritional profile.

The presence of these imitation products in the market is a concern for the formal dairy industry, as they unfairly compete with genuine cheese made from real milk and through standardized processes. Furthermore, they can create confusion among consumers, who may not be receiving the expected nutritional benefits from a genuine dairy product. This is a significant challenge for the dairy economy.

PROFECO emphasizes the importance of carefully reading labels and looking for clear denominations like 'cheese' or 'matured cheese' to ensure a genuine dairy product purchase. The absence of this clear information on packaging or the presence of non-traditional milk ingredients are warning signs that consumers should consider. This guide empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their food safety.

In summary, PROFECO's investigation into imitation cheese serves as a wake-up call for consumers and supports the dairy industry producing quality cheese. Understanding what these substitute products are made of is essential for protecting health, finances, and supporting genuine milk production, which forms the backbone of the dairy agro-industry.