Discover How Washington State University Created a Legendary Cheese That Outshines Its Mascots!

If you didn’t know, Washington State University (WSU) has a unique claim to fame: it has its own cheese, Cougar Gold. While many colleges share mascots, the idea of a school having its own special cheese is quite rare. And let’s just say, Cougar Gold is not just any cheese; it’s really good!

The history of this delightful cheese goes back to 1902 when a fire destroyed WSU’s creamery. They began rebuilding, but it took more than twenty years to complete. When the new creamery was finally ready, the challenge of storing cheese arose. During the late 1930s, as WWII loomed, food transport became a big issue. The traditional wax used for cheese preservation was cracking, so the team needed a better solution.

The breakthrough came from a group of researchers at WSU led by Dr. N.S. Golding, a dairy expert. They developed a special bacterial culture that allowed cheese to be safely stored in cans. This new method not only prevented cheese from exploding but also resulted in a delicious crumbly white cheddar, which has hints of gouda and parmesan flavors. The cheese was aptly named Cougar Gold, honoring the school’s mascot and Dr. Golding himself.

Interestingly, while Cougar Gold doesn’t need refrigeration to avoid spoiling, it still requires cold storage due to its quality. This meant it wasn’t ideal for military use during the war, but that’s a win for cheese lovers in the Pacific Northwest. WSU’s creamery continues to churn out this popular cheese today.

You can find Cougar Gold at Ferdinand’s Ice Cream Shoppe on campus or order it online. Fans of this cheese rave about its unique flavor and texture, making it a beloved treat not just for students but for everyone who loves good cheese.

In a recent survey by the Specialty Food Association, 80% of consumers expressed interest in buying locally made products. Cougar Gold is a perfect example of this trend. Local cheeses are gaining popularity not just for taste, but also for supporting local economies. So, next time you’re in the mood for cheese, consider trying a piece of Cougar Gold and supporting Washington State University at the same time!

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