Why does some cheese have holes and

Some cheeses have holes because of a process called lactic acid fermentation. This process is caused by bacteria that convert lactose (a sugar found in milk) into lactic acid. The lactic acid causes the milk proteins to coagulate and form a gel. As the gel forms, gas bubbles are released, which create the holes in the cheese.

The type of bacteria used in the cheesemaking process determines the size and shape of the holes. Some bacteria produce large, round holes, while others produce small, irregular holes. The amount of time the cheese is aged also affects the size and shape of the holes. Longer aging times result in larger holes.

Some of the most common cheeses with holes include:

* Swiss cheese

* Emmental cheese

* Gruyère cheese

* Jarlsberg cheese

These cheeses are all made with bacteria that produce large, round holes. They are also aged for a relatively long time.

In addition to lactic acid fermentation, some cheeses also have holes due to the presence of carbon dioxide gas. This gas is produced by yeast and other microorganisms that can be found in milk. The carbon dioxide gas bubbles up through the cheese, creating holes.

Cheeses that have holes due to carbon dioxide gas include:

* Cheddar cheese

* Colby cheese

* Monterey Jack cheese

These cheeses are all made with a variety of bacteria and yeast, which produce different types of holes.

The presence of holes in cheese is not a sign of spoilage. In fact, many people consider the holes to be a desirable characteristic of certain cheeses.