FAQs
FAQ — LOST LAKE FARM
We’ve gathered the questions we hear most about our cheese, shipping, and farm. If you don’t find your answer here, just reach out — we’re always happy to help.
What makes Lost Lake Farm cheese different?
Our cheese is made start-to-finish on our family farm in central Iowa using milk from our own grass-fed cows. We work in small batches, with slow fermentation and natural aging that bring out clean, complex flavors—no shortcuts, no blends from other farms.
Is your cheese pasteurized?
Yes, all of our cheeses are made with pasteurized milk.
What kind of milk do you use?
Only milk from our own grass-fed, 100% forage-fed cows—no outside milk is ever purchased or blended.
When is your online store open?
Our online store is seasonal—we ship during cooler months, typically November through early spring. In warmer months, you can find us at the Ames Main Street, Des Moines, Clear Lake, and Newton farmers’ markets, or through VegEmail delivery in Des Moines.
How do I place an order?
When the shop is open, simply add items to your cart and check out. Orders placed by Sunday 8 PM (CT) are packed and shipped on Monday for mid-week delivery.
Is there a minimum order?
No minimum but ordering a few cheeses together helps them stay properly chilled during shipment.
Where do you ship?
We currently ship to much of the Midwest — Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, plus select cities and ZIP Codes in Michigan, Missouri, and Nebraska.
How is cheese kept cold in transit?
We pack every box with insulated liners and ice packs to maintain proper temperature from our creamery to your door.
How long does shipping take?
Orders ship on Monday and typically arrive Tuesday or Wednesday. You’ll receive a tracking email once your order is on its way.
Do you ship year-round?
No — to ensure product quality, we pause shipping during the warmest months (roughly May–October) and resume in November when the weather cools.
How should I store my cheese once it arrives?
Refrigerate cheeses in their original wrap or parchment. For longer storage, wrap in wax paper or breathable cheese paper and place in a covered container to prevent drying.
Where can I buy your cheese in person?
We’re at the Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market, Des Moines and Clear Lake Markets every other weekend, and Newton occasionally. You can also find our cheese at restaurants like HOQ, KaffeGeita, Harbinger, and Juniper & Olive.
Do you offer on-farm pickup?
We do not offer on-farm pick up, as things on the farm are always really busy!
How can I contact you?
You can reach us anytime at lostlakefarmllc@gmail.com, through the Contact Us page. We typically reply on weekends.
