Tillamook Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Tillamook is a historic American dairy brand that originated in Tillamook County, Oregon. Known primarily for its high-quality cheddar cheeses, the brand has expanded its portfolio to include ice cream, yogurt, and butter, maintaining a reputation for using traditional aging processes and high-quality ingredients.

Manufacturing is centered in the United States, specifically at large-scale facilities in Tillamook and Boardman, Oregon. The production process is deeply rooted in the cooperative model, where local dairy farmers provide the raw milk used to create the cheese. This vertically integrated approach ensures quality control from the farm to the final packaging.

Unlike many major food brands that are owned by global conglomerates, Tillamook remains a farmer-owned cooperative. It is owned by the Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA), which consists of approximately 80 farming families. This structure means that the brand's profits and strategic direction remain under the control of the independent farmers who supply the cooperative.