kaasulähete

Kaasulähete is a traditional method of cheese delivery in Estonia. The term is derived from the Estonian words "kaas" meaning cheese and "lähete" meaning dispatch or delivery. This method of cheese transportation has been in use for centuries, particularly in rural areas where access to refrigeration and supermarkets was limited.

In a kaasulähete system, a person purchasing cheese would receive a credit note or a voucher that they could then redeem with the cheese maker or the dairy farm where the cheese was produced. This note would be sent to the dairy farm via a network of couriers or local agents, who would then collect the cheese and deliver it to the customer.

Kaasulähete was an essential service, especially during the winter months when roads could be challenging to navigate. It allowed people to purchase cheese without having to physically visit the dairy farm, which made it convenient for both the customer and the cheese maker.

The kaasulähete system relied on a network of intermediaries, often local traders or shopkeepers, who were responsible for collecting cheese from the dairy farm and delivering it to the customer. These intermediaries were usually paid a commission for their services, which helped to support the local economy.

Although modern supermarkets and online grocery stores have largely replaced traditional cheese delivery systems like kaasulähete, it remains an important part of Estonia's folk traditions and cultural heritage.