Mexico finds a kilo of meth hidden in wheel of cheese

MEXICO CITY — Authorities in Mexico said Friday they found over 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram) of methamphetamine hidden in the center of a wheel of cheese.

The National Guard said the “artisanal” cheese was apparently not produced in a factory. It was found at a package shipping warehouse near Mexico City and was being sent to an address in the United States. X-rays showed an unusual bulk at the center of the wheel, and authorities crumbled it apart to find the plastic-wrapped drugs.

The Guard did not specify what kind of cheese it was — Mexico has many types — but it appeared to be a “cotija,” a raw cow’s milk cheese made in Michoacán state. Michoacán is also known for producing meth.