Final answer:
Neufchatel cheese is from France, originating in the Normandy region and known for its heart shape and soft texture. It has a Protected Designation of Origin status in France.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neufchatel cheese originates from France. It is one of the oldest cheeses in the country, dating back to the 6th century. Named after the town of Neufchâtel-en-Bray in the Normandy region of France, this cheese is known for its distinct heart shape and soft, spreadable texture. Neufchatel is made using cow's milk and is similar to cream cheese, but it has a lower fat content and a slightly grainier texture. The French version should not be confused with American Neufchâtel, which is a lower-fat version of cream cheese and does not have the same Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status as its French counterpart.