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French Comedian Debunks Aussie Brie and Camembert
3 Mar
Summary
- Australian Brie and Camembert may be the same cheese.
- Expert says names are marketing tools, not definitions.
- Processing and aging are key differentiators globally.
A French comedian's recent viral video has sparked debate by asserting that Australian Brie and Camembert cheeses are, in fact, the same product.
He claims to have discovered this through personal taste tests and a visit to a Victorian dairy farm. The comedian alleges that while packaging differs, the cheese inside remains identical and milder than its French counterparts.
Experts acknowledge that both cheeses use similar ingredients and processes, including pasteurized milk and white mold. However, they caution against oversimplification. Differences in fat content, particularly added cream in Australian Brie, and varying aging periods are crucial distinctions that create unique flavors globally.
Globally renowned cheese expert Ivan Larcher explains that 'Brie' and 'Camembert' traditionally referred to geographical regions in France. He notes that outside France, these names are often used as marketing tools rather than strict product definitions.
This lack of legal definition means Australian producers can label cheeses as Brie or Camembert, leading to confusion. Some Australian cheesemakers, like Long Paddock Cheese, are now using unique local names, such as 'Flannel Flower' cheese, to establish a distinct Australian identity.
