A Linear Programming Model Integrating Resource Allocation and Product Acceptability for Processed Cheese Products

Abstract

A linear programming model integrates cheese manufacturing, blending, and aging and flavor components for a processed cheese manufacturing operation. The input resources for the process cheese product are idenified and defined. The constraints define the desired product using legal, quality, and management guidelines. The objective function maximizes the net returns of a pasteurized process cheese batch. Several scenarios are analyzed and compared. The critical factors that have high impact on costs and profits are identified and their economic influence quantified.