Selling farmhouse cheeses in markets attracts scammers. Indeed, these products are the object of a vast network of dishonest merchants, who try to fool holidaymakers discovering a region, reveals 60 million consumers. The cheeses sold are sometimes copies of AOP (Protected Designation of Origin) or even simple industrial cheeses.
Appetizing fresh cheeses, displayed on the stalls in a rural atmosphere, without labels or packaging… A godsend for unscrupulous sellers, who take advantage of this to lie about the origin of their products. Unlike wine, olive oil or honey, the labeling of cheeses does not necessarily mention the contact details of the producer and the farm. It is therefore difficult for buyers to know if the product is really a country cheese made according to centuries-old know-how.
As 60 million consumers observe, the majority of buyers are forced to take the seller’s word for it. However, a few reflexes can help discern whether the cheese merchant is what he claims to be. Do not hesitate to ask him specific questions about the way his products are developed and refined. A true passionate about country cheeses will answer you without any hesitation. A little tour on the Web can also confirm if his dairy farm really exists.
The magazine insists on the importance of the presentation of cheeses on the stalls. Ideally, they should be classified by type of milk, by variety and by geographical area. The cheese maker must respect the rules of hygiene and know precisely how to cut and package his products with delicacy.
In terms of prices, AOP cheeses and raw milk cheeses logically cost more, because they comply with strict specifications. If the cheeses are packaged, the labeling must mention the name of the cheese, the type of milk, its price and its possible heat treatment.
The advice given by 60 million consumers is not an absolute guarantee, but should save you from most scams. If you come back to the market regularly, pay extra attention to the cheese stand. Too much turnover of salespeople or a commercial discourse that changes overnight should give you a clue.
