How to store cheese

With the proper wrapping and storage conditions, you can keep cheese for longer than you may think. In addition to being able to savor your cheese until the last delectable bite, you’ll also be doing your part to help minimize food waste! Keep reading for more tips.

Remove any plastic wrapping

Wrapping your cheese in any type of plastic prevents it from breathing and leads to moisture build-up. Sealing cheese in plastic also alters the protective rind that acts as a preservative and ultimately removes flavor and texture.

USE CHEESE PAPER OR ALUMINIUM FOIL

To make sure your favorite cheese stays fresh, wrap it in cheese paper. This keeps the cheese from drying out and allows it to breathe, ensuring it will last longer. Once wrapped, you should place your cheese in an airtight container to make sure it gets the right amount of moisture. A plastic container also protects the cheese from bumps and ensures that especially pungent aromas won’t escape!

Soft cheeses, such as Brie and Camembert, will last several weeks if wrapped in cheese paper and stored correctly.

DON’T WRAP IT TOO TIGHTLY

Wrapping cheese too tightly prevents it from releasing moisture and can cause it to give off odors resemble ammonia. This can also lead to the cheese developing an unpleasant flavor. When wrapping your cheese, always be sure to leave room for it to breathe.

REPLACE THE PAPER

It’s impossible to avoid touching the wrapping when cutting or serving your cheese. To avoid bacteria from your fingers or other foods getting onto your cheese, we recommend replacing the wrapping paper after each use.

KEEP IT IN THE VEGETABLE DRAWER

You should store your cheese at the same temperature it was cured at. For most cheeses, a temperature between 41-44°F will keep it fresh for a few weeks, provided they have been properly wrapped. Leaving your cheese in the fridge will slow the maturing rate, while warmer conditions allow mold and flavor to develop much faster. Keep in mind that storing cheese in the refrigerator will eventually dry it out. A much better option is to store it in the vegetable drawer.

Remember to remove your cheese from the refrigerator a few hours before serving, as it’s a simple way to bring out the subtle contrasts in flavor.

USE YOUR SENSES

These tips will keep your cheese tasting good for longer, whether it’s a tangy cheddar, a heavenly brie or a zesty blue. If you’re in doubt as to whether it’s okay to enjoy that last piece, don’t be afraid to touch, smell or inspect your cheese for dryness or unwanted moisture. Look for any cracks that could indicate dry air and see if you can detect the smell of ammonia. If so, it could be a sign that, unfortunately, it’s time to throw your cheese away.

Now you have your cheese safely stored, find out what to do with your leftovers!

LEFTOVER CHEESE RECIPES

Cheese can play both starring and supporting roles in a surprising number of recipes. Explore our delicious leftover cheese recipes here so you can indulge your cheese cravings to the last ounce.