Why Australian Cream Cheese is Called Philadelphia: A Brand’s Origin Story
The names used for these famous cream cheese varieties might be more than just a simple connection to geography. We often hear that Australian cream cheese is called Philadelphia cream cheese, even though it's produced and sold locally. To delve into the reasons behind this naming, let's start with the history of how Philadelphia cream cheese came to be.
Origins of Philadelphia Cream Cheese
Philadelphia cream cheese is a brand name that has become almost synonymous with the product itself in many parts of the world. The story behind the brand dates back to the late 19th century when the cream cheese was invented by William Lawrence in New York, USA, specifically in the city of Philadelphia in the state of Pennsylvania.
William Lawrence was an American dairy farmer who accidentally created cream cheese. The story goes that while he was trying to replicate the French Neufchatel cheese, he mistakenly added too much cream to the mixture. This accidental addition resulted in a smoother, creamier cheese with a higher fat content.
Impressed by the texture and taste of this new cheese, Lawrence and his partner began producing and marketing it under the name Philadelphia Cream Cheese. This name became a brand name that stuck and eventually became synonymous with the product due to its quality and widespread distribution.
Trademark and its Impact on Australian Market
The naming of Philadelphia cream cheese as a brand name is highly regulated and protected by the Kraft Heinz Company, the current owner of the brand. This trademark protection means that while many types of cream cheese can be made and sold in Australia, those that bear the same name as Philadelphia cream cheese are subject to strict legal guidelines and require special permission.
Currently, it's only the American brand of Philadelphia Cream Cheese that can be legally marketed under that name in the United States, Europe, and other parts of the world where the brand is well-established. In Australia, before the introduction of foreign soft French cheese varieties like Brie, the local cheese producers did not face this issue and could create and market their own cream cheese with a different name and brand.
Comparison with American Cheddar Cheese
A similar situation exists with American cheddar cheese. This cheese is also named after the English town of Cheddar, in Somerset. However, the famous variety of cheddar cheese that is now commonly associated with the name in many countries is, in fact, an American imitation of the English original. Much like with cream cheese, the naming is often more about the production process and marketing than geographically accurate labeling.
The reason behind this naming is multifaceted. It is often used as a marketing tool to give the impression of authenticity and heritage. In the case of cheddar cheese, the American version has been perfected through time and is now widely recognized as a high-quality cheese that bears the name, even though it may not have exactly the same characteristics as the original English cheddar.
State of the Market in Australia
In modern times, the Australian market has evolved, and consumers are more exposed to a variety of global cheese brands and styles. Companies in Australia now produce a wide range of cheeses, including soft French varieties, to cater to these consumer preferences and to diversify their offerings. As a result, the local cheese producers can create and market their own versions of cream cheese without the restrictions of the Philadelphia brand name.
However, it's also important to note that the brand name Philadelphia continues to resonate with consumers due to its long history and reputation for quality. This nostalgia and brand loyalty are significant factors that influence consumer choices even today.
Overall, the naming of various types of cheese, including Australian cream cheese and American cheddar cheese, is a complex interplay between historical accidents, marketing strategies, and legal trademarks. Understanding these factors can help us appreciate the journey of these beloved dairy products and the stories behind them.