Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions

How should I store Zanetti cheeses to maintain freshness?

Proper storage is key to preserving the quality of Zanetti cheeses. Hard cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Grana Padano should be wrapped in wax paper or cheese paper and then loosely covered in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the cheese to breathe while preventing it from drying out. Soft cheeses like mascarpone should always be kept sealed and refrigerated and consumed within a few days of opening. Avoid storing cheese in the coldest part of the fridge, as this can affect texture and flavour. Always bring cheese to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy its taste.

Zanetti cheeses combine traditional Italian cheesemaking expertise with modern quality standards. The company works closely with local dairies across Italy’s key cheesemaking regions, ensuring access to the highest-quality milk and strict adherence to traditional techniques. Many Zanetti cheeses are aged in carefully controlled environments to develop their signature flavour profiles, from delicate and creamy to rich and complex. What sets Zanetti apart is its commitment to both authenticity and consistency. Maintaining heritage methods while using advanced production and quality controls. This ensures that every wheel or portion delivers the same premium experience, making Zanetti a trusted name for Italian cheese in both retail and foodservice.

PDO stands for Protected Designation of Origin, a certification which guarantees that a cheese is produced, processed, and matured in a specific region using traditional methods. For Zanetti cheeses, PDO status ensures authenticity, consistent quality, and a strong link to regional heritage. Every stage of production; from the milk source to ageing, must meet strict regulations. This means when you purchase a Zanetti PDO cheese like Parmigiano Reggiano or Grana Padano, you are experiencing a product that reflects centuries of craftsmanship and the unique environmental conditions of its origin. It’s a mark of trust, traceability, and genuine Italian excellence.

While both are hard, aged Italian cheeses with similar appearances, Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano differ in origin, production rules, and flavour. Parmigiano Reggiano is produced in a smaller, strictly regulated area and follows more stringent feeding and production guidelines, resulting in a richer, more complex flavour with deeper umami notes. Grana Padano is produced across a wider region with slightly less restrictive requirements, making it milder, creamier, and more approachable in taste. Both carry PDO certification and are crafted using traditional methods, but Parmigiano Reggiano is often considered the more premium, intensely flavoured option.

Ageing is a crucial step in developing the flavour and texture of many Zanetti cheeses. Hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano are matured for months or even years in temperature and humidity controlled environments. During this time, natural enzymes break down proteins and fats, creating complex flavours and the characteristic crumbly texture. The length of ageing directly influences taste, longer maturation results in a more intense, nutty, and savoury profile. Zanetti carefully monitors this process to ensure consistency and quality, selecting cheeses at different maturation stages to meet diverse culinary needs.

Zanetti offers a variety of cheeses that can suit different dietary needs. These cheeses are made with simple, high-quality ingredients, often without preservatives. However, preferences such as vegetarian suitability may vary, as traditional cheesemaking can involve animal rennet. It’s always best to check product specifications for detailed dietary information. Zanetti’s diverse range allows consumers to enjoy authentic Italian cheese while accommodating a variety of lifestyles

Zanetti cheeses are produced across several of Italy’s most renowned cheesemaking regions, including Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Veneto, and Lazio. Each region contributes unique characteristics based on its climate, local milk, and traditional practices. For example, Parmigiano Reggiano is produced exclusively in parts of Emilia-Romagna, while Grana Padano comes from the Po River Valley. Zanetti works closely with local producers in these areas, ensuring each cheese reflects its regional heritage and meets strict quality standards. This dedication to origin and authenticity allows consumers to experience the true diversity of Italian cheese through the Zanetti range.

Our Recipes

Discover the art of cooking with our premium oils and vinegars. Our collection of recipes celebrates the pure, vibrant flavours that only the finest ingredients can deliver. From quick weeknight dinners to show-stopping dishes, let us inspire your next culinary creation.