Quantitative Analysis of the Major Free Fatty Acids in Swiss Cheese

Abstract
The major free fatty-acids in 5 Swiss-type cheeses of good flavor were determined. The branched-chain C5 acid, 2-methyl butyric, was found in all cheeses examined and may make a significant contribution to the flavor. Its quantity varied from 12-100 mg/kg cheese. 3-Methyl butyric acid which was detected in only 2 of the cheeses occurred in the highest quantity in a cheese of mild flavor; this acid is not an essential component of the flavor complex. No n-valeric or 2-methyl propionic acid was found in the cheeses investigated.