According to a 2004 scientific study, Vieux Boulogne cheese from France is the world's smelliest cheese.

The smelliest cheeses gain their odor from their rinds and the curing process, and apparently Vieux Boulogne, which is prepared with beer, ends up with the strongest odor. A similar cheese called Epoisses de Bourgogne is banned from being carried on public transportation in France because of its smell.