Cheese: it’s more than just a dairy product. For many, it’s a way of life, a passion and even an obsession. Whether it’s the creamy texture of a Brie, the pronounced bite of an aged Cheddar, or the tangy taste of a crumbly Stilton, cheese has a unique ability to captivate the senses. But what exactly do you call someone who is utterly devoted to this beloved food? Read on to find out why cheese lovers are called turophiles.
READ MORE: The world’s most complete glossary of cheese terminology →
The etymology of the term “Turophile”
The word “turophile” comes from the Greek word “tyros”, meaning cheese, and the suffix “-phile”, which indicates a lover or enthusiast of something. Together, it forms “turophile,” literally meaning “lover of cheese”.
Although the term might not be as commonly known as “foodie” or “gourmand,” it captures a very specific and deep-seated love for all things cheese.
While “turophile” is the technical term, it’s not the only way to describe a cheese lover. There are numerous playful and creative terms that cheese enthusiasts have embraced over the years, such as “cheesehead”, “cheese afficionado” and even “cheese connoisseur”. Each of these terms carries its own connotations and nuances, but they all share a common thread: an unabashed adoration for cheese.
The many faces of cheese lovers
Not all cheese lovers are created equal. Just as there are countless varieties of cheese, there are many types of turophiles, each with their own unique relationship to cheese. Let’s explore a few common archetypes:
1. The casual cheese enthusiast
This type of turophile enjoys cheese as part of their regular diet but doesn’t go out of their way to seek out the rarest or most exotic varieties. They’re happy with a reliable Brie, a slice of Gouda or some classic American cheese on a burger. For them, cheese is a comforting and familiar companion, not something to obsess over.
2. The adventurous cheese explorer
This turophile loves to experiment with different types of cheese, constantly seeking out new flavours, textures and aromas. They’re the ones who will try a cheese made from camel milk or infused with lavender, just to see what it’s like. They’re not afraid to explore the stinky, the mouldy, and the downright bizarre, all in the name of cheese discovery.
3. The purist
The purist believes in the sanctity of cheese. They have strong opinions on pasteurisation, the correct ageing process, and the origins of various cheeses. They may insist that a true Parmigiano Reggiano can only come from a specific region in Italy and will argue passionately about the superiority of raw milk cheeses. For them, cheese is not just food; it’s a tradition that must be respected and preserved.
4. The cheese connoisseur
This turophile approaches cheese with the same reverence that a sommelier approaches wine. They can identify the subtle differences between a Gorgonzola Dolce and a Gorgonzola Piccante , or a Brie and a Camembert. They know their cheese pairings inside and out, and their knowledge of cheese regions, styles and history is encyclopedic.
The science behind the love of cheese
Why do people love cheese so much? The answer lies partly in science. Cheese is rich in fats and proteins, which are essential nutrients that the human body craves. It also contains a substance called casein, which, when digested, releases casomorphins. These are compounds that can have a mild opiate effect, promoting feelings of pleasure and relaxation.
Furthermore, the process of fermentation involved in cheesemaking creates a complex array of flavours and aromas that are incredibly appealing to our senses. The umami taste, often associated with aged cheeses, is especially satisfying because it signals the presence of proteins. This complex interplay of taste, texture, and aroma makes cheese a uniquely “craveworthy” food.
A brief history of cheese obsession
Humans have been obsessed with cheese for thousands of years. The earliest evidence of cheesemaking dates back to around 5500 BCE in what is now Poland. Since then, cheese has become an integral part of various cultures around the world. The Romans were particularly fond of it, and they spread cheesemaking techniques throughout their empire.
In medieval Europe, monasteries became centres of cheese production, creating many of the classic cheeses we know today, like Epoisses, Munster, and Limburger. The Industrial Revolution brought about mass production, making cheese more accessible to the general public. Today, we’re in the midst of a cheese renaissance, with artisanal producers crafting everything from traditional varieties to innovative new types.
How to spot a turophile
Wondering if someone you know is a turophile? Here are a few telltale signs:
- Their Fridge is a Cheese Wonderland: A turophile’s fridge is often stocked with a wide variety of cheeses, from everyday staples to obscure finds. You might find a wedge of Manchego next to a wheel of Camembert, with a few slabs of Comté and a block of Stilton thrown in for good measure.
- They Have Strong Opinions on Cheese Boards: A true cheese lover has very specific ideas about what makes a good cheese board. They know the importance of balancing flavours and textures, and they’ll likely have a go-to selection of cheeses, accompaniments, and beverages.
- They’re Always on the Hunt for New Cheeses: Whether it’s visiting a local farmers’ market, exploring specialty shops, or traveling to different regions known for their cheese, turophiles are always looking to expand their cheese horizons.
- They Use Cheese Terms Casually: Words like “bloomy rind”, “washed rind,” and “affinage” are part of their everyday vocabulary. They might even know the names of famous cheesemakers and the best cheese regions in the world.
- They Have a Favourite Cheese Knife: Yes, there are different knives for different cheeses, and a turophile will have their preferred tool of choice for each type.
The joy of being cheese lovers
At the end of the day, being a turophile is all about joy. It’s about savouring the simple pleasure of a perfectly ripe Brie, sharing a cheese board with friends, or discovering a new favourite at a cheese tasting. Cheese has a unique ability to bring people together, to start conversations and to spark passion.
So, the next time you find yourself lingering at the cheese counter, sampling a new variety, or debating the merits of raw milk versus pasteurised, know that you are part of a long and storied tradition of cheese lovers. Whether you call yourself a turophile, a cheesehead, or just a plain old cheese lover, you’re in good company.
In the end, what do you call a cheese lover? Call them happy. Because few things in life are as satisfying, as comforting, and as delicious as cheese.
Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online.
