What is mild vs medium cheddar?

Here's a breakdown of the differences between mild and medium cheddar cheese:

  • Flavor Profile: The primary difference lies in the flavor intensity. Mild cheddar has a more subtle, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor. Medium cheddar possesses a sharper, more pronounced cheddar taste compared to mild.

  • Aging: Aging process contributes to the flavor development. Medium cheddar is typically aged longer than mild cheddar, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify. Mild cheddar undergoes a shorter aging period.

  • Texture: While both are semi-hard cheeses, there might be subtle texture differences. Mild cheddar tends to be slightly softer and creamier, while medium cheddar can have a firmer texture due to aging.

  • Color: The color is generally similar, ranging from white to pale yellow-orange, depending on the addition of annatto. Color is not always an indicator of flavor intensity or aging.