Across Texas, ranches and dairy farms are producing products with distinct taste and character. National Dairy Month provides an opportunity for Texans to appreciate the contributions of this industry to the state.
Dairy is becoming increasingly significant in Texas agriculture. The U.S. Department of Agriculture ranks Texas among the top five dairy-producing states, with nearly 300 dairies statewide. According to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, dairy production in Texas continues to grow, valued at billions of dollars.
The number of dairy cows in Texas has increased over the past two years, while other parts of the country have seen a decline. Currently, there are 675,000 dairy cows in Texas.
Cheese is one of the most consumed dairy products globally. Its origins are unclear but believed to be accidental when milk stored in animal stomachs curdled due to an enzyme called rennet. Cheesemaking spread worldwide over time.
In Texas, many cheesemakers use milk from their own herds. While most milk comes from dairy cows, goats, sheep, and water buffaloes also contribute to cheese production.
Paula Lambert is a renowned cheesemaker who founded Dallas’ Mozzarella Company in 1982. Her company produces over 30 cheeses today. She lived in Italy before returning to Texas and opened a cheese factory near Downtown Dallas to bring Italian flavors home. Lambert says, “I had loved fresh mozzarella when I lived in Italy…and I thought they oughta know about it.”
Lambert is considered a pioneer in American artisanal cheese and has received accolades such as the American Cheese Society Lifetime Achievement Award.
In Dublin, Texas, the Veldhuizen family operates a farmstead cheese business less than 90 miles southwest of Fort Worth. Stuart Veldhuizen and his family produce more than 60 wheels of cheese weekly using milk from their own herd and flock. Their cheeses age in a stone cave built by the family.
Cheesemakers across Texas dedicate themselves to delivering uniquely Texan flavors through their products.
Every glass of milk or wedge of cheese tells a story about Texas’ vibrant dairy culture during National Dairy Month. Celebrating with local products pays tribute to those shaping the future of Texas dairy.
