Parmesan cheese can be made from whole milk, cream, skim milk or reconstituted nonfat dry milk, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Parmesan is traditionally made from cow's milk, aged for at least 12 months in copper vats, where it is heated and other ingredients like whey and rennet are added.

Imitations don’t come close. The Parmigiano Reggiano vs. Parmesan debate isn’t just about cheese—it’s about preserving a rich culinary tradition and ensuring transparency for consumers.

Most Parmesan cheese in the store isn't from Parma, Italy, its birthplace. Only Parmigiano Reggiano is authentic — we spoke to experts about how to shop for it.