Question

Why does ‘Swiss cheese’ have big holes?

Answer 1

Production of Swiss cheese:

Swiss cheese is characterised by large holes. The production involves the fermentation by the following bacteria:-

• Lactic acid bacteria: The bacteria converts lactose to lactic acid
• Propionibacterium shermanii: This bacteria converts lactic acid to propionic acid and carbon dioxide.

Presence of holes:

The carbon dioxide, formed as an end product of fermentation, escapes the surface of the cheese forming the large holes.