August 2011/Prepared Foods -- Remember a couple of years ago, when “artisan” and “artisanal” could be found on dozens of new products every month? The trend primarily surfaced in bakery products, with artisanal breads a particular target, and the “artisan” label adding a degree of gourmet appeal, with something of an added price.
Fast forward to today—the recession continues to take its toll on consumer spending, and products identified as “artisan” are significantly less common. Now, however, comes an “artisan butter.” The Sea Salt Crystal butter from Vermont Butter & Cheese Creamery is made in small batches with local rBST-free cream.pf