CONALECHE celebrates Dominican cheese heritage

Nisibón, D.R.- As part of the 34th Nisibón Cattle Ranchers Association (AGANI) Fair, the National Council for the Regulation and Promotion of the Dairy Industry (CONALECHE) hosted a presentation titled “History of Cheese in Humanity and in the Dominican Republic”, led by Mariana Furaki, head of CONALECHE’s Dairy Technical Department. She traced the origins of cheese from the Neolithic period to its development in the Dominican Republic, covering varieties such as Chédar, Geo, Danés, Arish, and Provolone.

Executive Director Miguel Laureano emphasized the richness and diversity of Dominican cheeses and their significance to the national dairy industry. The talk highlighted the Arish cheese factory established in 1937 in Las Matas de Farfán by Lebanese immigrants, marking San Juan as a pioneer in this production. Furaki also praised artisanal cheese production in the eastern region, noting how traditions have been passed down through generations.

The event concluded with a cheese tasting paired with wines, fostering fellowship among producers and attendees while celebrating the country’s cheese heritage and artisanal craftsmanship.