The Secret History of Camembert

Camembert is one of France's most iconic foods, but its history is far stranger than most people realize.Was it really invented by a Norman farm girl and a fugitive priest during the French Revolution? Why did trains help make it famous? Why can't Americans buy authentic Camembert de Normandie? And what happened to the original molds that once covered the cheese?Caroline Fazeli and Emily Monaco dive into the myths, history, politics, and science behind France's most popular soft cheese before putting several very different Camemberts to the test.Podcast Show NotesThe legendary origin story of CamembertThe surprising connection between Brie and CamembertHow trains and wooden boxes changed French food historyWhat AOP protection means for cheeseWhy Camembert became France's national cheeseThe battle between artisanal and industrial producersWhy authentic Camembert cannot be imported to the United StatesThe truth about the famous white rindIndustrial Camembert vs Camembert de NormandieA tasting of Livarot, Camembert, and Camembert au CalvadosKey TakeawaysCamembert likely evolved from Brie but became a distinct Norman cheese through local milk, local molds, and local traditions.The famous origin story may be partly historical and partly marketing.Camembert's popularity was driven by rail transport and standardized packaging.The protected name is Camembert de Normandie, not simply Camembert.Authentic Camembert de Normandie must be made from raw milk.Most Camembert sold today is industrially produced.The iconic white rind is a relatively modern development.Many Americans mistakenly use "Brie" to describe cheeses that are actually Camembert-style.Camembert became a symbol of French identity during the twentieth century.