Edam is a type of cheese made in the Netherlands. It is named after the Dutch town of its origins, Edam. The cheese is pale yellow and is usually exported in round pieces, covered in red paraffin wax. When sold in the Netherlands, Edam does not usually have wax on it. The purpose of the red wax is to protect the cheese during transit.

Most Edam cheese sold in stores has a very mild flavour and almost no smell, however, as the cheese ages, its flavour sharpens. It pairs well with fruit and is commonly eaten on crackers and bread.

Edam has featured in books and films, for instance in the novel 'All Quiet on the Western Front' by Erich Maria Remarque. The main character, Paul Bäumer, believes the Edam's red wax covering is a sign of impending death.

Due to the red wax, Edam is associated with Christmas in several countries. It usually appears on a Christmas 'Julbord' buffet in Scandinavian countries and is customarily served during the 'Noche Buena' feast eaten on Christmas Eve in the Philippines.

More Info: en.m.wikipedia.org