Tillamook County Creamery Association

American dairy cooperative based in Oregon

The logo of the Tillamook County Creamery Association

The Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) is a renowned American dairy cooperative headquartered in Tillamook County, Oregon. Established in 1909, the cooperative is best known for its production of cheese, ice cream, yogurt, and other dairy products under the "Tillamook" brand. The TCCA is a farmer-owned cooperative, consisting of approximately 80 member farms, primarily located in Tillamook County.

History

The origins of the Tillamook County Creamery Association date back to the late 19th century when dairy farming began to flourish in the fertile lands of Tillamook County. In 1909, several small creameries in the region united to form a cooperative to improve the quality and distribution of their dairy products. This collaboration led to the establishment of the TCCA, which quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality cheese.

The Tillamook Cheese Factory in 1992

In the early years, the cooperative focused on producing cheddar cheese, which became a staple product. Over the decades, the TCCA expanded its product line to include a variety of cheeses, ice cream, and other dairy products. The cooperative's commitment to quality and innovation has helped it maintain a strong presence in the dairy industry.

Operations

The TCCA operates a state-of-the-art creamery in Tillamook, Oregon, which serves as the primary production facility for its dairy products. The creamery is a popular tourist destination, attracting over a million visitors annually who come to learn about the cheese-making process and sample the cooperative's products.

The exterior of the Tillamook Creamery

The cooperative's operations are guided by a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The TCCA works closely with its member farms to implement sustainable farming practices, reduce waste, and minimize the environmental impact of dairy production.

Products

The Tillamook brand is synonymous with high-quality dairy products. The cooperative's product line includes a wide range of cheeses, such as cheddar, colby, and pepper jack, as well as specialty cheeses like smoked and aged varieties. In addition to cheese, the TCCA produces a popular line of ice cream, yogurt, and butter.

The Tillamook Cheese Factory

The cooperative's products are distributed throughout the United States and are available in major grocery chains and specialty food stores. The TCCA's commitment to quality and flavor has earned it numerous awards and accolades in the dairy industry.

Visitor Center

The Tillamook Creamery Visitor Center offers an interactive experience for visitors, featuring self-guided tours, educational exhibits, and a viewing gallery where guests can observe the cheese-making process. The center also includes a retail shop and a café that serves a variety of dishes made with Tillamook products.

The interior of the Tillamook Creamery

Related pages

• Cheese
• Dairy farming
• Cooperative
• Oregon