About the SCA

The Specialist Cheesemakers Association was established in 1989 and is an alliance of cheesemakers, retailers, wholesalers and others interested in cheese, offering an opportunity to share ideas and increase sales of British cheese. Our members' cheese is made from fresh milk, often unpasteurised and frequently from small herds or flocks. It is made by dedicated cheesemakers with a passion for their craft that creates mouthfuls of great taste, character and tradition.

The main objectives of the Association are to encourage excellence in cheesemaking, raise the profile of our traditionally made cheeses, to provide a forum for members to exchange ideas and to represent the interests of members to government and the media.

The SCA is the first port of call for any retailer or cheesemaker with technical, health or hygiene problems, and in some instances this may involve the association having to go out on a limb to support a member. We cannot jeopardise the reputation of the industry or the Association for a member who has not put in place a Food Safety Management system and it is therefore vital that all members demonstrate their commitment to quality by putting in place a Food Safety Management system and abide by the SCA Code of Practice.

SCA plans to introduce a scheme whereby cheesemakers, retailers and wholesalers must sign a Guarantee of Best Practice, confirming they comply with the SCA Code of Best Practice and have a food safety management system in place. Anyone having problems developing a food safety management system should contact the Association for help.

For further information on how to join the SCA and a list of subscription bands please see How to join SCA

Specialist Cheesemakers Association    17 Clerkenwell Green    London EC1R 0DP

Tel: 020 7253 2114    Fax: 020 7608 1645    Email: info@specialistcheesemakers.co.uk