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| region = [[Wisconsin]]
| region = [[Wisconsin]]
| town =
| town =
| source = [[Cow]]s
| source = [[Cow]]s
| pasteurised = Yes
| pasteurised = Yes
| texture = Semi-hard
| texture = Semi-hard
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}}
}}


'''Colby-Jack''', or '''Co-jack'''/'''Cojack''',<ref>[http://www.eatwisconsincheese.com/cheeses/16/colby-monterey-jack Wisconsin Cheese: Colby-Monterey Jack] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180526185828/http://www.eatwisconsincheese.com/cheeses/16/colby-monterey-jack |date=2018-05-26 }}. Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board.</ref> is an American [[cheese]] made from [[Colby (cheese)|Colby]] and [[Monterey Jack]]. It is classified as semi-hard in texture and is mild due to its two-week aging process. It is generally sold in a full-moon or a half-moon shape when it is young.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mex-recipes.com/cheese-type.html |title=Cheese Type |publisher=Mex-recipes.com |access-date=2010-05-14}}</ref> The flavor of Colby-Jack is mild to mellow.<ref>[http://www.recipetips.com/glossary-term/t--35928/colby-jack-cheese.asp Colby Jack Cheese]. Retrieved November 12, 2007.</ref> Colby-Jack cheese is mainly produced in the states of Wisconsin and California.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cheesemarketnews.com/articlearch/cheese/07jul17.html |title=Cheese of the Month - July 2017 |publisher=cheesemarketnews.com |date= July 2017 |access-date=2020-07-23}}</ref> It is used in various dishes or as a topping to be melted. These dishes include burgers, pasta bakes, [[macaroni and cheese]], [[casserole]]s and so on.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/colby-cheese-recipes/ |title=Colby Cheese Recipes|publisher=tasteofhome.com |date= December 2018 |access-date=2020-09-10}}</ref> It is predominantly used in the United States, and is not readily available internationally.{{Citation needed|date=June 2022}}
'''Colby-Jack''', or '''Co-jack'''/'''Cojack''',<ref>[http://www.eatwisconsincheese.com/cheeses/16/colby-monterey-jack Wisconsin Cheese: Colby-Monterey Jack] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180526185828/http://www.eatwisconsincheese.com/cheeses/16/colby-monterey-jack |date=2018-05-26 }}. Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board.</ref> is an American [[marble cheese]] made from [[Colby (cheese)|Colby]] and [[Monterey Jack]]. It is classified as semi-hard in texture and is mild due to its two-week aging process. It is generally sold in a full-moon or a half-moon shape when it is young.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mex-recipes.com/cheese-type.html |title=Cheese Type |publisher=Mex-recipes.com |access-date=2010-05-14}}</ref> The flavor of Colby-Jack is mild to mellow.<ref>[http://www.recipetips.com/glossary-term/t--35928/colby-jack-cheese.asp Colby Jack Cheese]. Retrieved November 12, 2007.</ref> Colby-Jack cheese is mainly produced in the states of Wisconsin and California.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cheesemarketnews.com/articlearch/cheese/07jul17.html |title=Cheese of the Month - July 2017 |publisher=cheesemarketnews.com |date= July 2017 |access-date=2020-07-23}}</ref> It is used in various dishes or as a topping to be melted. These dishes include burgers, pasta bakes, [[macaroni and cheese]], [[casserole]]s and so on.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/colby-cheese-recipes/ |title=Colby Cheese Recipes|publisher=tasteofhome.com |date= December 2018 |access-date=2020-09-10}}</ref> It is predominantly used in the United States, and is not readily available internationally.{{Citation needed|date=June 2022}}


==Origin==
==Origin==
The name Colby-Jack comes from the combination of the names of the two kinds of cheese it is made from, Colby and Monterey Jack cheese. Colby cheese originates in Colby, Wisconsin, and was created by Joseph F. Steinwand in 1885.<ref name=HCC>{{cite web|url=http://www.foodpreserving.org/2016/09/history-of-colby-cheese.html |title=History of Colby Cheese |publisher=foodpreserving.org |date=2020 |access-date=2020-10-11}}</ref> Monterey Jack cheese originates from Monterey, California, and was made by Mexican Franciscan Friars during the 1700s.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cheese.com/monterey-jack/ |title=Monterery Jack |publisher=cheese.com |date= 2020 |access-date=2020-10-12}}</ref> Colby-Jack cheese was then processed by marbling the two kinds of cheese together. This process was first introduced in the same place Colby Cheese was made on its own. It was not made at a large scale until the 20th century when the cheese became more popular and moved out of Wisconsin to larger areas of America (See [[#Factory manufacturing|Factory manufacturing]]). Before it was made on a large scale, the small, wooden building in Wisconsin only made {{convert|57|kg|lb|abbr=on}} of cheese each day. At this time, Colby-Jack was pressed into a {{convert|5.8|kg|lb|abbr=on}} long-horn shape and dipped in wax.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thefoodwonder.com/colby-jack-cheese/#:~:text=The%20Colby%20Jack%20Cheese%20was,%2C%20Colby%2C%20hence%20its%20name.|title= Colby Jack Cheese - Origin, How is made and Nutrition. |newspaper= The Food Wonder |publisher=foodwonder.com |date= 2020-03-30 |access-date=2020-09-10}}</ref>
The name Colby-Jack comes from the combination of the names of the two kinds of cheese it is made from, Colby and Monterey Jack cheese. Colby cheese originates in [[Colby, Wisconsin]], and was created by Joseph F. Steinwand in 1885.<ref name=HCC>{{cite web|url=http://www.foodpreserving.org/2016/09/history-of-colby-cheese.html |title=History of Colby Cheese |publisher=foodpreserving.org |date=2020 |access-date=2020-10-11}}</ref> Monterey Jack cheese originates from [[Monterey, California]], and was made by Mexican Franciscan Friars during the 1700s.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cheese.com/monterey-jack/ |title=Monterey Jack |publisher=cheese.com |date= 2020 |access-date=2020-10-12}}</ref> Colby-Jack cheese was then processed by marbling the two kinds of cheese together. This process was first introduced in the same place Colby Cheese was made on its own. It was not made at a large scale until the 20th century when the cheese became more popular and moved out of Wisconsin to larger areas of America (See [[#Factory manufacturing|Factory manufacturing]]). Before it was made on a large scale, the small, wooden building in Wisconsin only made {{convert|57|kg|lb|abbr=on}} of cheese each day. At this time, Colby-Jack was pressed into a {{convert|5.8|kg|lb|abbr=on}} long-horn shape and dipped in wax.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thefoodwonder.com/colby-jack-cheese/#:~:text=The%20Colby%20Jack%20Cheese%20was,%2C%20Colby%2C%20hence%20its%20name.|title= Colby Jack Cheese - Origin, How is made and Nutrition. |newspaper= The Food Wonder |publisher=foodwonder.com |date= 2020-03-30 |access-date=2020-09-10}}</ref>


==Ingredients and preparation==
==Ingredients and preparation==
===Ingredients===
===Ingredients===
Colby-Jack is a [[marble cheese]] that is a mixture of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. Colby-Jack is a semi-soft American cheese that is made from [[Pasteurized milk|pasteurised milk]]. Furthermore, the cheese contains cheese culture, salt, enzymes and annatto. [[Annatto]] is what gives the Colby component of Colby-Jack its orange color.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cheese.com/colby-jack/
Colby-Jack is a [[marble cheese]] that is a mixture of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. Colby-Jack is a semi-soft American cheese that is made from [[Pasteurized milk|pasteurised milk]]. [[Annatto]] is the source of the orange color in the Colby component of Colby-Jack.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cheese.com/colby-jack/
|title=Colby Jack |publisher=cheese.com |date= 2020 |access-date=2020-10-12}}</ref> Together the Colby-Jack becomes distinctly marbled with white and orange. The flavor of the individual cheeses used in the blend will determine how strong the final Colby-Jack will taste.
|title=Colby Jack |publisher=cheese.com |date= 2020 |access-date=2020-10-12}}</ref> The flavor of Colby-Jack is determined by the individual cheeses that are used to make it.

====List of ingredients====
*Cheese curds
*Cheese/bacteria cultures
*Salt
*Pasteurised milk
*Annatto
*Enzymes
*Coagulant


===Sodium content===
===Sodium content===
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===Preparation===
===Preparation===
Colby-Jack is prepared from a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. To begin, both cheeses are individually prepared by mixing [[Pasteurization|pasteurized]] milk and bacterial cultures. Once fully mixed, a coagulant is added, which makes the cheese mixture thicken and take on a gel-like consistency; the addition of coagulant also serves to separate the [[cheese curds]] and [[whey]]. Annatto is then added, though only to the Colby mixture. Once ingredients have been mixed, the mixtures are drained of their whey, and high-quality curds of each cheese are selected from the remaining solid product. Chosen curds of both cheeses are then blended together, creating the marbling effect of orange and white. The blended mixture is then shaped (frequently into a semicircular or rectangular block) or shredded.<ref>{{cite AV media |people=TVO (director) |date=Oct 20, 2011 |title=TVO's Making Stuff: How Ivanhoe makes Marble Cheddar Cheese | medium=Video | location=US | publisher=TVO}}</ref> In some instances, the cheese may be dipped in wax for further preservation; this is subject to manufacturer preference.<ref name=HCC/>
Colby and Monterrey Jack cheeses are individually prepared by mixing [[Pasteurization|pasteurized]] milk and bacterial cultures. Once fully mixed, a coagulant is added, which makes the cheese mixture thicken and take on a gel-like consistency; the addition of coagulant also serves to separate the [[cheese curds]] and [[whey]]. Annatto is added during the preparation of Colby to give it its trademark orange color. Once ingredients have been mixed, the mixtures are drained of their whey, and high-quality curds of each cheese are selected from the remaining solid product. Chosen curds of both cheeses are then blended together, yielding a marbling of orange and white. The blended cheese is then shaped (frequently into a semicircular or rectangular block) or shredded.<ref>{{cite AV media |people=TVO (director) |date=Oct 20, 2011 |title=TVO's Making Stuff: How Ivanhoe makes Marble Cheddar Cheese | medium=Video | location=US | publisher=TVO}}</ref> In some instances, the cheese may be dipped in wax for further preservation; this is subject to manufacturer preference.<ref name=HCC/>


====Aging process====
====Aging process====
Line 48: Line 39:
|title=Aging Cheese - Williamson Wines |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=2020 |website=Williamson Wines |access-date=2020-11-16}} </ref> The aging process may last up to 14 days kept in a monitored environment to age. The aging process allows the cheese to fully set as well as completely combine in components and flavor.
|title=Aging Cheese - Williamson Wines |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=2020 |website=Williamson Wines |access-date=2020-11-16}} </ref> The aging process may last up to 14 days kept in a monitored environment to age. The aging process allows the cheese to fully set as well as completely combine in components and flavor.


⚫
==Factory manufacturing==
=== Variations ===
{{Cleanup press release|section|date=September 2024}}

* {{Anchor|Muscoda Mayhem}}Muscoda Mayhem Colby Jack – hot peppers add heat to this cheese from [[Muscoda, Wisconsin]], and the Kase Meister Creamery.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Muscoda Mayhem Colby Jack|url=https://www.wisconsincheesemart.com/products/muscoda-mayhem-colby-jack|access-date=2021-05-30|website=Wisconsin Cheese Mart|language=en}}</ref>

[[File:Cheese Manufacture, New Zealand.jpg|thumb|An example of cheese manufacturing machine, similar to what Colby-Jack is made in]]
[[File:Cheese Manufacture, New Zealand.jpg|thumb|An example of cheese manufacturing machine, similar to what Colby-Jack is made in]]


⚫
==Factory manufacturing==
===Manufacturing===
===Manufacturing===
The manufacturing of Colby-Jack can be split into two types of manufacturing, wholesale and industrial purposes. The preparation for Colby-Jack remains the same but is made at a larger scale. Due to the large volumes of cheese that is made in the factories, robots are used to make the process easier for large quantities. In particular, large cheese manufacturer Wirtz states, "To support this market need for customised product, we have to push our automation as far as we can, and make it do things that it was not designed to do".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dairyfoods.com/articles/94528-masters-gallery-foods-facilitates-high-speed-cheese-packaging-with-flexible-robotsthis |title= Masters Gallery Foods facilitates high-speed cheese packaging with flexible robots. |publisher=dairyfoods.com| author= P. Roberts |date=2020-08-25 |access-date=2020-09-10}}</ref> This automation is important as it makes the process easier with the many variations of Colby-Jack that companies need to produce. Once this process is completed, robots are again used to package the cheese and ready for packing and distribution.
The manufacturing of Colby-Jack can be split into two types of manufacturing, wholesale and industrial purposes. The preparation for Colby-Jack remains the same but is made at a larger scale. Due to the large volumes of cheese that is made in the factories, robots are used to make the process easier for large quantities. In particular, large cheese manufacturer Wirtz states, "To support this market need for customised product, we have to push our automation as far as we can, and make it do things that it was not designed to do".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dairyfoods.com/articles/94528-masters-gallery-foods-facilitates-high-speed-cheese-packaging-with-flexible-robotsthis |title= Masters Gallery Foods facilitates high-speed cheese packaging with flexible robots. |publisher=dairyfoods.com| author= P. Roberts |date=2020-08-25 |access-date=2020-09-10}}</ref> This automation is important as it makes the process easier with the many variations of Colby-Jack that companies need to produce. Once this process is completed, robots are again used to package the cheese and ready for packing and distribution.


===Packing and distribution===
===Packing and distribution===
The Colby-Jack is packaged and distributed through the utilisation of robotics. These robots pick the cheese from a conveyor belt and pack them into cases ready to be distributed. These robots are flexible and are able to carry 0.5 to 20 pounds of packaged cheese.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dairyfoods.com/articles/94528-masters-gallery-foods-facilitates-high-speed-cheese-packaging-with-flexible-robotsthis |title= Masters Gallery Foods facilitates high-speed cheese packaging with flexible robots.|publisher=dairyfoods.com| author= P. Roberts |date=2020-08-25 |access-date=2020-09-10}}</ref> This enables the production sequence to be more efficient and pack more into the packages ready for distribution. Before being distributed a randomly selected pack of Colby-Jack is chosen for quality control. Once this has been done the cheese is ready to be shipped across the US and overseas depending on the manufacturer.
The Colby-Jack is packaged and distributed through the utilisation of robotics. These robots pick the cheese from a conveyor belt and pack them into cases ready to be distributed. These robots are flexible and are able to carry 0.03125 to 20 pounds of packaged cheese.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dairyfoods.com/articles/94528-masters-gallery-foods-facilitates-high-speed-cheese-packaging-with-flexible-robotsthis |title= Masters Gallery Foods facilitates high-speed cheese packaging with flexible robots.|publisher=dairyfoods.com| author= P. Roberts |date=2020-08-25 |access-date=2020-09-10}}</ref> This enables the production sequence to be more efficient and pack more into the packages ready for distribution. Before being distributed a randomly selected pack of Colby-Jack is chosen for quality control. Once this has been done the cheese is ready to be shipped across the US and overseas depending on the manufacturer.


===Packaging===
===Packaging===
As Colby-Jack is made in different forms, packaging varies for each form of the cheese. The types of packaging that Colby-Jack might be packaged in include:
As Colby-Jack is made in different forms, packaging varies for each form of the cheese. The types of packaging that Colby-Jack might be packaged in include{{importance inline|date=September 2024}}:
*[[Vacuum packing]]
*[[Vacuum packing]]
*[[Paraffin wax]]
*[[Paraffin wax]]
*[[Latex]] emulsion (plastic coating)
*[[Latex]] emulsion (plastic coating)
There are many factors that should be considered when selecting the type of packaging. According to the journal ''Cheese Problems Solved'', these factors include "permeability to water vapor, [[oxygen]], [[ammonia|NH<sub>3</sub>]], [[carbon dioxide|CO<sub>2</sub>]], and light, potential for migration of compounds from food to packaging or vice versa, and practical considerations, including suitability for labelling and compatibility with conditions during distribution and sale".<ref>{{cite journal |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=2017 |title=Cheese Problems Solved |url= https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9781845690601500132 |journal=Food Science, Technology and Nutrition |volume=1 |issue=1 |pages=159–162 |doi=10.1533/9781845693534.159|access-date=2020-11-15}}</ref> This packaging will also depend on the manufacturer and is up to their discretion to decide what is best for their product.
There are many factors that should be considered when selecting the type of packaging. According to the journal ''Cheese Problems Solved'', these factors include "permeability to water vapor, [[oxygen]], [[ammonia|NH<sub>3</sub>]], [[carbon dioxide|CO<sub>2</sub>]], and light, potential for migration of compounds from food to packaging or vice versa, and practical considerations, including suitability for labelling and compatibility with conditions during distribution and sale".<ref>{{cite journal |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=2017 |title=Cheese Problems Solved |url= https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9781845690601500132 |journal=Food Science, Technology and Nutrition |volume=1 |issue=1 |pages=159–162 |doi=10.1533/9781845693534.159|access-date=2020-11-15}}</ref> This packaging will also depend on the manufacturer and is up to their discretion to decide what is best for their product.{{importance inline|date=September 2024}}


==Popularity==
==Popularity==
Colby-Jack cheese is popular around America {{Citation needed|date=July 2022}} as it is traditionally an American cheese. It is also popular in various American and Mexican dishes. In these dishes it is mostly used to melt and a topping on various recipes. Although being most popular in America, Colby-Jack can also be found overseas due to being exported out of America{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}}. It is also popular as an "on-the-go" snack. According to the article by Kathie Canning, Americans mostly enjoy Colby-Jack as their own convenience and when they most feel like a snack. This is especially prominent in small cubed shaped pieces of Colby-Jack which are usually paired with potato chips or another easily portable snack.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dairyfoods.com/articles/94295-convenient-cheese-formats-rule |title= convenient cheese format rule |publisher=dairyfoods.com| author= Kathie Canning |date=2020-05-11 |access-date=2020-11-16}}</ref> This will also determine the type of packaging the cheese is made into depending on the most convenient form for the consumer.
Colby-Jack cheese is popular in America {{Citation needed|date=July 2022}}, but it can also be found overseas{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}}. It is both used in cooking and eaten by itself. Many dishes that commonly use Colby-Jack are American or Mexican in origin. Colby-Jack's mild flavor can make it easy to incorporate into a recipe.<ref>{{cite AV media |people=The Big Stink (director) |date=Feb 13, 2009 |title=The Big Stink – Colby-Jack Cheese | medium=Video | location=US | publisher=Food Aficionado}}</ref>


⚫
Traditionally popular American cheeses, such as Colby-Jack, Cheddar, Monterrey Jack, and Colby, have seen a recent decline in popularity in America due to rising popularity of Italian-style cheeses, such as Mozzarella.<ref>{{cite news |last=Adaway|first=Kristen |date=2018-07-18 |title=). The Most Popular Cheeses In The U.S. Are No Longer American. |url= https://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/entry/italian-cheese-is-the-most-popular-america_n_5b4f4f6ee4b0b15aba8a94b2 |work=Huffington Post |location= New York City|access-date=2020-11-15}}</ref>
===Recipes===
There are many recipes that Colby-Jack is used in home recipes. It is mostly used to melt and top certain dishes. These dishes include:
*[[Cheeseburger]]
*[[Casserole]]
*[[Tacos]]
*[[Pizzas]]
*[[Macaroni and cheese]]
*[[Sandwiches]]
*[[Nachos]]
*[[Salads]]
*[[Quesadillas]]

These dishes do not exclusively use Colby-Jack but is used most often as it is "moist, softer and melts smoothly".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thefoodwonder.com/colby-jack-cheese/#:~:text=The%20Colby%20Jack%20Cheese%20was,%2C%20Colby%2C%20hence%20its%20name. |title=Colby-Jack|publisher=The Food Wonder|date=2020-03-30 |access-date=2020-09-10}}</ref> It can be noted that dishes which make use of Colby-Jack cheese are typically traditional American and Mexican dishes. The reason most dishes use Colby-Jack is because it is a milder cheese that does not take away from the flavor of the dish itself.<ref>{{cite AV media |people=The Big Stink (director) |date=Feb 13, 2009 |title=The Big Stink – Colby-Jack Cheese | medium=Video | location=US | publisher=Food Aficionado}}</ref>

===Decrease in popularity===
⚫
According to ''The [[Huffington Post]]'', there has been a decreased popularity in American cheeses, in particular Cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack and Colby Jack cheese. The article states "Italian cheeses have taken over the No. 1 spot as the most produced cheese in the U.S. The federal Department of Agriculture reported that more than 5.3 billion pounds of Italian cheeses were produced in the U.S. in 2017, compared with a little under 5.1 billion pounds of American-style cheeses. And it's all because of pizza."<ref>{{cite news |last=Adaway|first=Kristen |date=2018-07-18 |title=). The Most Popular Cheeses In The U.S. Are No Longer American. |url= https://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/entry/italian-cheese-is-the-most-popular-america_n_5b4f4f6ee4b0b15aba8a94b2 |work=Huffington Post |location= New York City|access-date=2020-11-15}}</ref>


==Accolades==
==Accolades==
{{Advert section|date=September 2024}}
⚫
In 2008, Gregg Palubicki from [[Alto Dairy Cooperative]]'s Black Creek plant submitted a 40-pound block of Colby-Jack into the World Championship Cheese and Butter Contest in [[Madison, Wisconsin]]. The block of cheese won its class in the contest, earning a 97.75 out of 100. After winning the award, president of Alto Dairy at the time, Rich Scheuerman stated: "Alto Dairy is honored to have received such a prestigious title, American-style cheeses such as Alto's Colby-Jack are very popular among U.S. consumers, and Alto is proud to be recognized again for making the best Colby-Jack in the world."<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title= Winners in 2008 World Championship Cheese Contest |url= http://dbrewbaker.com/frcheese/staging/pr/march/2008-cheese-contest-winners.pdf|work=examiner.com |location=Wisconsin |date=2008-03-13 |access-date=2020-11-16}}</ref>
{{Cleanup press release section|date=September 2024}}
⚫
In 2008, Gregg Palubicki from [[Alto Dairy Cooperative]]'s Black Creek plant submitted a 40-pound block of Colby-Jack into the World Championship Cheese and Butter Contest in [[Madison, Wisconsin]]. {{Importance inline|date=September 2024}} The block of cheese won its class in the contest, earning a 97.75 out of 100. After winning the award, president of Alto Dairy at the time, Rich Scheuerman stated: "Alto Dairy is honored to have received such a prestigious title, American-style cheeses such as Alto's Colby-Jack are very popular among U.S. consumers, and Alto is proud to be recognized again for making the best Colby-Jack in the world."<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title= Winners in 2008 World Championship Cheese Contest |url= http://dbrewbaker.com/frcheese/staging/pr/march/2008-cheese-contest-winners.pdf|work=examiner.com |location=Wisconsin |date=2008-03-13 |access-date=2020-11-16}}</ref>


==Commercialisation and sales==
==Commercialisation and sales==
===Use in restaurants===
===Use in restaurants===
Colby-Jack is commonly used in commercial settings such as fast-food restaurants and can be widely found in supermarkets. In particular, it is widely used in breakfast fast food. Colby-Jack is commonly used as it is the easiest and quick to melt in the fast production of fast food. For example, at fast-food restaurant [[Dunkin' Donuts]], it is used in its 'Supreme Omelette' line.<ref>{{cite journal |last1= Carolyn |first1= Walkup|date= 2007-08-27|title=QSRs step up efforts to meet demand for convenient breakfasts |url= https://www.nrn.com/archive/qsrs-step-efforts-meet-demand-convenient-breakfasts|journal= Nation's Restaurant News|access-date=2020-10-12}}</ref> The American quick-service chain [[Culver's]] has also used Colby-Jack cheese in one of their most popular burgers, the 'Colby Jack Pub Burger'.<ref>{{cite journal |last1= Mark |first1= Brandau|date= 2014-03-06|title= Culver's CEO shares what's next after reaching 500 units|url= https://www.nrn.com/quick-service/culvers-ceo-shares-what-s-next-after-reaching-500-units|journal= Nation's Restaurant News|access-date=2020-11-13}}</ref> The Culver franchise had the burger as a limited edition burger during 2014. As most foods that are associated with Colby Jack are [[comfort food]], such as casseroles, many restaurants use Colby Jack as the main melting cheese used. This is seen at the restaurant chain [[Denny's]], where they use Colby jack cheese on their skillets and casseroles. Similarly, a restaurant chain 'The Melt', has a range of comfort foods such as grilled cheese sandwiches and soups that rely on cheese as the main ingredient of some of the dishes. An example of this is the "Colby Jack on Whole Wheat", included on the restaurant's small menu.<ref>{{cite journal |last1= Alan J. |first1= Liddle|date= 2013-01-28|title= Breakout Brands: The Melt|url= https://www.nrn.com/nrn-50/breakout-brands-melt|journal= Nation's Restaurant News|access-date=2020-11-13}}</ref> The popular fast-food chain [[Chick-fil-A]] also has Colby-Jack as one of the main cheeses available on their chicken sandwiches.
Colby-Jack is commonly used in commercial settings such as fast-food restaurants and can be widely found in supermarkets. In particular, it is widely used in breakfast fast food. Colby-Jack is commonly used as it melts quickly. Fast-food restaurant [[Dunkin' Donuts]] uses Colby-Jack in its 'Supreme Omelette' line.{{Importance inline|date=September 2024}}<ref>{{cite journal |last1= Carolyn |first1= Walkup|date= 2007-08-27|title=QSRs step up efforts to meet demand for convenient breakfasts |url= https://www.nrn.com/archive/qsrs-step-efforts-meet-demand-convenient-breakfasts|journal= Nation's Restaurant News|access-date=2020-10-12}}</ref> American quick-service chain [[Culver's]] has also used Colby-Jack cheese in one of their most popular burgers, the 'Colby Jack Pub Burger'.{{Importance inline|date=September 2024}}<ref>{{cite journal |last1= Mark |first1= Brandau|date= 2014-03-06|title= Culver's CEO shares what's next after reaching 500 units|url= https://www.nrn.com/quick-service/culvers-ceo-shares-what-s-next-after-reaching-500-units|journal= Nation's Restaurant News|access-date=2020-11-13}}</ref> The Culver franchise had the burger as a limited edition burger during 2014. As most foods that are associated with Colby Jack are [[comfort food]], such as casseroles, many restaurants use Colby Jack as the main melting cheese used. Restaurant chain [[Denny's]], uses Colby jack cheese on their skillets and casseroles.{{Importance inline|date=September 2024}} Restaurant chain 'The Melt', includes "Colby Jack on Whole Wheat", on its small menu.{{Importance inline|date=September 2024}}<ref>{{cite journal |last1= Alan J. |first1= Liddle|date= 2013-01-28|title= Breakout Brands: The Melt|url= https://www.nrn.com/nrn-50/breakout-brands-melt|journal= Nation's Restaurant News|access-date=2020-11-13}}</ref> The popular fast-food chain [[Chick-fil-A]] also has Colby-Jack as one of the main cheeses available on their chicken sandwiches.{{Importance inline|date=September 2024}}


===Sales===
===Sales===
In terms of sales, Colby-Jack is highly consumed in the United States. According to the USDA Data, "Per capita consumption of American-style natural cheeses such as cheddar, Colby and Jack cheeses rose from 11.7 pounds in 1995 to more than 15 pounds in 2017",<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dairyfoods.com/articles/93559-cheese-consumption-is-growing-among-americans|title=Cheese consumption is growing among Americans|publisher=Dairyfoods.com|date=2019-04-23 |access-date=2020-10-11}}</ref> indicating popularity in cheeses such as Colby-Jack. According to tastewise, the average yearly consumption growth of Colby-Jack is 38.85% and its frequency of consumption being 1.35 times on average per year.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.tastewise.io/foodtrends/colby%20jack|title=Food Trend - Colby Jack|publisher=tastewise|date=2020|access-date=2020-11-13}}</ref>
In terms of sales, Colby-Jack is highly consumed in the United States. According to the USDA Data, "Per capita consumption of American-style natural cheeses such as cheddar, Colby and Jack cheeses rose from 11.7 pounds in 1995 to more than 15 pounds in 2017",<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dairyfoods.com/articles/93559-cheese-consumption-is-growing-among-americans|title=Cheese consumption is growing among Americans|publisher=Dairyfoods.com|date=2019-04-23 |access-date=2020-10-11}}</ref> indicating popularity in cheeses such as Colby-Jack. According to tastewise{{who?|date=March 2024}}, the average yearly consumption growth of Colby-Jack is 38.85% and its frequency of consumption being 1.35 times on average per year.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.tastewise.io/foodtrends/colby%20jack|title=Food Trend - Colby Jack|publisher=tastewise|date=2020|access-date=2020-11-13}}</ref>

==Recalls==
===Sargento Foods Inc.: February 2017===
During February 2017, [[Sargento]] Foods Inc. recalled various products, such as Shredded Reduced Fat Colby-Jack were voluntarily recalled due to possible bacterial contamination, specifically ''[[Listeria monocytogenes]]'' that was introduced by the Indiana-based Deutsch Kase Haus. Sargento has since cut ties with the company.<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title= Sargento expands cheese recall, cuts ties with supplier. |url= https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/feb/17/sargento-expands-cheese-recall-cuts-ties-with-supp/ |newspaper=Washington Post |location=Washington |date= 2017-02-17|access-date=2020-11-16}}</ref>

===Henning's Cheese: May 2017===
During May 2017, Henning's Cheese recalled Colby-Jack due to a temporary malfunctioning pasteurizer. It was stated that around 1000 pounds of the product were distributed through the state of [[Kiel]]. The cheese itself being recalled were 1 to 2 pound blocks sold on or after April 10, 2017. The result of the malfunction was seen to have not affected consumers.<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title= Henning's Cheese recalls limited amount of Colby Jack cheese. |url= https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/may/10/hennings-cheese-recalls-limited-amount-of-colby-ja/|newspaper=Washington Post |location=Washington |date= 2017-05-10|access-date=2020-11-16}}</ref>

===Meijer: November 2016 to February 2017===
From the November 10, 2016, to February 9, 2017, the [[FDA]] (Food and Drug Administration) ordered a recall of the cheeses Colby and Colby-Jack made by the company [[Meijer]]. This recall only extended to its own Deli stores. This was due to the potential cross-contamination with ''Listeria monocytogenes'' at their [[Middlebury, Indiana]] manufacturing factory. At the time customers were asked to either dispose of the product or return it to customer service at any Meijer store for a full refund. It was stated by the FDA, "The recalled product will be in plastic deli packaging with printed labels that have the UPCs 215927xxxxxx or 215938xxxxxx – the last 6 digits will vary, and are determined by weight since the product was purchased at the deli counter."<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/meijer-recalls-meijer-brand-colby-and-colby-jack-deli-cheeses-because-possible-health-risk|publisher=Food and Drug Administration|title= Meijer Recalls Meijer Brand Colby and Colby Jack Deli Cheeses Because of Possible Health Risk |date=2018-02-07 |access-date=2020-11-13}}</ref>


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 19:52, 17 November 2024

Colby-Jack
Other namesMarble jack, Co-Jack, Cojack
Country of originUnited States
RegionWisconsin
Source of milkCows
PasteurisedYes
TextureSemi-hard
Aging time14 days
Related media on Commons

Colby-Jack, or Co-jack/Cojack,[1] is an American marble cheese made from Colby and Monterey Jack. It is classified as semi-hard in texture and is mild due to its two-week aging process. It is generally sold in a full-moon or a half-moon shape when it is young.[2] The flavor of Colby-Jack is mild to mellow.[3] Colby-Jack cheese is mainly produced in the states of Wisconsin and California.[4] It is used in various dishes or as a topping to be melted. These dishes include burgers, pasta bakes, macaroni and cheese, casseroles and so on.[5] It is predominantly used in the United States, and is not readily available internationally.[citation needed]

Origin

[edit]

The name Colby-Jack comes from the combination of the names of the two kinds of cheese it is made from, Colby and Monterey Jack cheese. Colby cheese originates in Colby, Wisconsin, and was created by Joseph F. Steinwand in 1885.[6] Monterey Jack cheese originates from Monterey, California, and was made by Mexican Franciscan Friars during the 1700s.[7] Colby-Jack cheese was then processed by marbling the two kinds of cheese together. This process was first introduced in the same place Colby Cheese was made on its own. It was not made at a large scale until the 20th century when the cheese became more popular and moved out of Wisconsin to larger areas of America (See Factory manufacturing). Before it was made on a large scale, the small, wooden building in Wisconsin only made 57 kg (126 lb) of cheese each day. At this time, Colby-Jack was pressed into a 5.8 kg (13 lb) long-horn shape and dipped in wax.[8]

Ingredients and preparation

[edit]

Ingredients

[edit]

Colby-Jack is a marble cheese that is a mixture of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. Colby-Jack is a semi-soft American cheese that is made from pasteurised milk. Annatto is the source of the orange color in the Colby component of Colby-Jack.[9] The flavor of Colby-Jack is determined by the individual cheeses that are used to make it.

Sodium content

[edit]

The National Salt Reduction Initiative was proposed in 2009 to reduce the ratio of sodium in cheese to 1 g to 100 g.[citation needed] The baseline amount of sodium in 2009 of Colby-Jack was 668 mg of sodium to 100 g of cheese. By 2014 Colby-Jack was down to 600 mg to 100 g of cheese[10]

Preparation

[edit]

Colby and Monterrey Jack cheeses are individually prepared by mixing pasteurized milk and bacterial cultures. Once fully mixed, a coagulant is added, which makes the cheese mixture thicken and take on a gel-like consistency; the addition of coagulant also serves to separate the cheese curds and whey. Annatto is added during the preparation of Colby to give it its trademark orange color. Once ingredients have been mixed, the mixtures are drained of their whey, and high-quality curds of each cheese are selected from the remaining solid product. Chosen curds of both cheeses are then blended together, yielding a marbling of orange and white. The blended cheese is then shaped (frequently into a semicircular or rectangular block) or shredded.[11] In some instances, the cheese may be dipped in wax for further preservation; this is subject to manufacturer preference.[6]

Aging process

[edit]

Most semi-soft cheese such as Colby-Jack whilst aging should be stored at 40°F to 45°F, wrapped in parchment or wax paper then again in plastic wrap.[12] The aging process may last up to 14 days kept in a monitored environment to age. The aging process allows the cheese to fully set as well as completely combine in components and flavor.

Factory manufacturing

[edit]
An example of cheese manufacturing machine, similar to what Colby-Jack is made in

Manufacturing

[edit]

The manufacturing of Colby-Jack can be split into two types of manufacturing, wholesale and industrial purposes. The preparation for Colby-Jack remains the same but is made at a larger scale. Due to the large volumes of cheese that is made in the factories, robots are used to make the process easier for large quantities. In particular, large cheese manufacturer Wirtz states, "To support this market need for customised product, we have to push our automation as far as we can, and make it do things that it was not designed to do".[13] This automation is important as it makes the process easier with the many variations of Colby-Jack that companies need to produce. Once this process is completed, robots are again used to package the cheese and ready for packing and distribution.

Packing and distribution

[edit]

The Colby-Jack is packaged and distributed through the utilisation of robotics. These robots pick the cheese from a conveyor belt and pack them into cases ready to be distributed. These robots are flexible and are able to carry 0.03125 to 20 pounds of packaged cheese.[14] This enables the production sequence to be more efficient and pack more into the packages ready for distribution. Before being distributed a randomly selected pack of Colby-Jack is chosen for quality control. Once this has been done the cheese is ready to be shipped across the US and overseas depending on the manufacturer.

Packaging

[edit]

As Colby-Jack is made in different forms, packaging varies for each form of the cheese. The types of packaging that Colby-Jack might be packaged in include[importance?]:

There are many factors that should be considered when selecting the type of packaging. According to the journal Cheese Problems Solved, these factors include "permeability to water vapor, oxygen, NH3, CO2, and light, potential for migration of compounds from food to packaging or vice versa, and practical considerations, including suitability for labelling and compatibility with conditions during distribution and sale".[15] This packaging will also depend on the manufacturer and is up to their discretion to decide what is best for their product.[importance?]

Popularity

[edit]

Colby-Jack cheese is popular in America [citation needed], but it can also be found overseas[citation needed]. It is both used in cooking and eaten by itself. Many dishes that commonly use Colby-Jack are American or Mexican in origin. Colby-Jack's mild flavor can make it easy to incorporate into a recipe.[16]

Traditionally popular American cheeses, such as Colby-Jack, Cheddar, Monterrey Jack, and Colby, have seen a recent decline in popularity in America due to rising popularity of Italian-style cheeses, such as Mozzarella.[17]

Accolades

[edit]

In 2008, Gregg Palubicki from Alto Dairy Cooperative's Black Creek plant submitted a 40-pound block of Colby-Jack into the World Championship Cheese and Butter Contest in Madison, Wisconsin. [importance?] The block of cheese won its class in the contest, earning a 97.75 out of 100. After winning the award, president of Alto Dairy at the time, Rich Scheuerman stated: "Alto Dairy is honored to have received such a prestigious title, American-style cheeses such as Alto's Colby-Jack are very popular among U.S. consumers, and Alto is proud to be recognized again for making the best Colby-Jack in the world."[18]

Commercialisation and sales

[edit]

Use in restaurants

[edit]

Colby-Jack is commonly used in commercial settings such as fast-food restaurants and can be widely found in supermarkets. In particular, it is widely used in breakfast fast food. Colby-Jack is commonly used as it melts quickly. Fast-food restaurant Dunkin' Donuts uses Colby-Jack in its 'Supreme Omelette' line.[importance?][19] American quick-service chain Culver's has also used Colby-Jack cheese in one of their most popular burgers, the 'Colby Jack Pub Burger'.[importance?][20] The Culver franchise had the burger as a limited edition burger during 2014. As most foods that are associated with Colby Jack are comfort food, such as casseroles, many restaurants use Colby Jack as the main melting cheese used. Restaurant chain Denny's, uses Colby jack cheese on their skillets and casseroles.[importance?] Restaurant chain 'The Melt', includes "Colby Jack on Whole Wheat", on its small menu.[importance?][21] The popular fast-food chain Chick-fil-A also has Colby-Jack as one of the main cheeses available on their chicken sandwiches.[importance?]

Sales

[edit]

In terms of sales, Colby-Jack is highly consumed in the United States. According to the USDA Data, "Per capita consumption of American-style natural cheeses such as cheddar, Colby and Jack cheeses rose from 11.7 pounds in 1995 to more than 15 pounds in 2017",[22] indicating popularity in cheeses such as Colby-Jack. According to tastewise[who?], the average yearly consumption growth of Colby-Jack is 38.85% and its frequency of consumption being 1.35 times on average per year.[23]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Wisconsin Cheese: Colby-Monterey Jack Archived 2018-05-26 at the Wayback Machine. Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board.
  2. ^ "Cheese Type". Mex-recipes.com. Retrieved 2010-05-14.
  3. ^ Colby Jack Cheese. Retrieved November 12, 2007.
  4. ^ "Cheese of the Month - July 2017". cheesemarketnews.com. July 2017. Retrieved 2020-07-23.
  5. ^ "Colby Cheese Recipes". tasteofhome.com. December 2018. Retrieved 2020-09-10.
  6. ^ a b "History of Colby Cheese". foodpreserving.org. 2020. Retrieved 2020-10-11.
  7. ^ "Monterey Jack". cheese.com. 2020. Retrieved 2020-10-12.
  8. ^ "Colby Jack Cheese - Origin, How is made and Nutrition". The Food Wonder. foodwonder.com. 2020-03-30. Retrieved 2020-09-10.
  9. ^ "Colby Jack". cheese.com. 2020. Retrieved 2020-10-12.
  10. ^ Agarwal, S; McCoy, D; Graves, W; Gerard, P.D; Clark, S (2011). "Sodium content in retail Cheddar, Mozzarella, and process cheeses varies considerably in the United States". Journal of Dairy Science. 94 (3): 1605–1615. doi:10.3168/jds.2010-3782. PMID 21338828.
  11. ^ TVO (director) (Oct 20, 2011). TVO's Making Stuff: How Ivanhoe makes Marble Cheddar Cheese (Video). US: TVO.
  12. ^ "Aging Cheese - Williamson Wines". Williamson Wines. 2020. Retrieved 2020-11-16.
  13. ^ P. Roberts (2020-08-25). "Masters Gallery Foods facilitates high-speed cheese packaging with flexible robots". dairyfoods.com. Retrieved 2020-09-10.
  14. ^ P. Roberts (2020-08-25). "Masters Gallery Foods facilitates high-speed cheese packaging with flexible robots". dairyfoods.com. Retrieved 2020-09-10.
  15. ^ "Cheese Problems Solved". Food Science, Technology and Nutrition. 1 (1): 159–162. 2017. doi:10.1533/9781845693534.159. Retrieved 2020-11-15.
  16. ^ The Big Stink (director) (Feb 13, 2009). The Big Stink – Colby-Jack Cheese (Video). US: Food Aficionado.
  17. ^ Adaway, Kristen (2018-07-18). "). The Most Popular Cheeses In The U.S. Are No Longer American". Huffington Post. New York City. Retrieved 2020-11-15.
  18. ^ "Winners in 2008 World Championship Cheese Contest" (PDF). examiner.com. Wisconsin. 2008-03-13. Retrieved 2020-11-16.
  19. ^ Carolyn, Walkup (2007-08-27). "QSRs step up efforts to meet demand for convenient breakfasts". Nation's Restaurant News. Retrieved 2020-10-12.
  20. ^ Mark, Brandau (2014-03-06). "Culver's CEO shares what's next after reaching 500 units". Nation's Restaurant News. Retrieved 2020-11-13.
  21. ^ Alan J., Liddle (2013-01-28). "Breakout Brands: The Melt". Nation's Restaurant News. Retrieved 2020-11-13.
  22. ^ "Cheese consumption is growing among Americans". Dairyfoods.com. 2019-04-23. Retrieved 2020-10-11.
  23. ^ "Food Trend - Colby Jack". tastewise. 2020. Retrieved 2020-11-13.
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