Arnott's Cheds Recipe Change: Pecorino to Parmesan

What's the Difference Between the Two Italian Cheeses?

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:24am

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A bold, graphic illustration of a Cheds cracker repeated in a vibrant, high-contrast grid, capturing the playful and iconic nature of this classic Australian snack food.Arnott's iconic Cheds crackers get a pop art makeover, reflecting the brand's ability to evolve while preserving the beloved flavors that have delighted Aussie snackers for generations.Denver Today

Arnott's, the beloved Australian biscuit brand, has made a significant change to the recipe for its iconic Cheds crackers after 60 years. The company has replaced pecorino cheese with parmesan, sparking curiosity and debate among Aussie consumers.

Why it matters

The recipe change has led to discussions about the distinct characteristics of pecorino and parmesan, two popular Italian hard cheeses. While the switch was made for manufacturing reasons, it highlights Arnott's commitment to adapting its products to ensure consistent supply for customers.

The details

Arnott's has confirmed that the change from pecorino to parmesan cheese in the Cheds recipe is not related to the taste or quality of the product. Instead, it's a result of a manufacturing process update to ensure consistent supply. Pecorino is a sheep's milk cheese aged for a minimum of five months, giving it a creamier texture and a tangy, salty taste. Parmesan, on the other hand, is a cow's milk cheese aged for at least 12 months, resulting in a harder and crumblier texture with a nutty and sweet flavor.

  • Arnott's has been making the Cheds crackers for over 60 years.
  • The recipe change was implemented in 2026.

The players

Arnott's

An Australian biscuit brand that has been producing the popular Cheds crackers for over six decades.

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The takeaway

Despite the recipe change, Arnott's has maintained the beloved taste of the Cheds crackers, demonstrating the brand's commitment to quality and innovation even as it adapts to ensure consistent supply for its loyal customers.