Frequently Asked Questions

FAQS

 
Q: Do you produce goat or sheep cheese? 
A: We only produce cow milk products.
 
Q: Do you sell butter or cream?
A:  No, we sell cheese, yogurt, labneh, and milk.
 

Q: How many cows do you milk?

A: About 30 cows.

 
Q. Do you sell any low- or reduced-fat products?
A: The only reduced-fat cheese is our Ricotta.  Our other cheeses as well as our yogurt and labneh are made with whole milk. 
 
Q: Are your cows organic?
A: Yes. Our cows, cheese, yogurt,  beef, and veal are  certified organic.  
  
Q: What does “organic” mean?
A: Organic standards as regulated by the USDA and  require that animals be given 100% organic feed and prohibit the use of hormones, pesticides, or antibiotics.  We are certified organic by Oregon Tilth.
 
Q: Are your cows and pigs “free range”?
A: Yes, our livestock are given plenty of access to outdoor pastures.  During winter times, when the fields are too wet, they are kept off the pastures. 
 
Q. Where does the name of your signature cheese, Ladysmith, come from?
A: We are located in the Bow-Edison area of Skagit Valley in Northwest Washington.  Years ago, there was a small community in between Bow and Edison known as Ladysmith.  A couple of our other cheeses are named for local landmarks and areas: Port Edison and our cheddar: Mont Blanchard. 
 
Q: Do you have nutritional information available for your cheeses?
A: No.
 
Q:  Do you offer tours or cheese making classes at your farm?
A: Self-guided tours are available daily during daylight hours.  The best times to come to see activity in the cheese room are between 10 AM and 2 PM.  Please check in with Charley when you arrive or ask at the sales counter in our shop. 
 
Q: Do you ship your cheeses?
A: We can ship our cheese, but we must take into consideration several factors including weather, especially in the summer, as well as the type of cheese and quantity being ordered.  The best way to accurately assess whether a shipment can be made and what the cost would be of a particular shipment is to email orders@samishbay.com with your zip code and items of interest and we can help you with your request.