Washington State University Creamery

Some of America’s best foodstuffs come from its fine state colleges. Of note is the beef jerk and American Kobe beef from Texas A&M. Several schools also produce superb ice cream. Washington State University is notable for two things – the cheese from its creamery and the packaging of said cheese. Obvious from the above image, cheeses like Cougar Gold come in a can. In a can? Yes.

Initially, this choice generated much speculation. Given the typical nature of canned cheese (think the steaming glop of orange at many of my local Philadelphia eateries), I was extraordinarily surprised by the quality. Washington State University has been canning cheese since the 1930s. Their belief stands that it is a great way to ensure that the cheese will not be contaminated. Cans contain 30 ounces of cheese at the cost of $18.