Kamil Perry
Proper storage is key to preserving the flavour and texture of Parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally at temperatures between 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C). The cheese should be wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper, followed by aluminium foil to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mould growth. Once wrapped, place the cheese in the least cool part of the fridge, such as a cheese drawer or a shelf closer to the door. If you notice mould on hard cheeses like Parmesan, it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion and consume the rest. That being said, consuming dairy products like Parmesan past their expiration date can pose health risks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Expiry | All grated Parmesan cheeses expire, but hard Parmesan cheeses can last for years. |
| Spoilage | If refrigerated, Parmesan can be consumed past its expiration date if there are no signs of spoilage. |
| Storage | Parmesan should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally at temperatures between 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C). |
| Packaging | Parmesan should be wrapped in wax or parchment paper, then covered in aluminum foil to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth. |
| Shelf Life | Grated Parmesan has a shorter shelf life than blocks of Parmesan. Proper storage can extend shelf life. |
| Mold | Mold can be cut off from hard cheeses like Parmesan, and the rest of the cheese is still usable. |
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What You'll Learn
Proper storage
Firstly, Parmesan cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally at temperatures between 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C). The cheese should be well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator. Place the cheese in the least cool part of the fridge, such as a cheese drawer or on a shelf closer to the door. The lower part of the fridge, known as the crisper drawer, is ideal for retaining freshness. However, do not mix Parmesan with fresh produce and assign a separate drawer for cheese alone.
Secondly, the type of Parmesan cheese determines the specific storage method. For blocks of Parmesan cheese, wrap them tightly in wax paper or parchment paper, followed by a loose covering of aluminium foil. This allows the cheese to breathe and prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to mould growth. For grated or shredded Parmesan, use a vacuum-sealed bag or an airtight container with a tight lid to extend its shelf life.
Additionally, always practise good hygiene when handling Parmesan cheese. Avoid touching the cheese with your fingers, as the acid from your hands can cause moulding. If mould does appear on hard cheeses like Parmesan, it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion, and the rest of the cheese should still be usable. However, always check for signs of spoilage, such as a spongy texture and an off-putting smell, and never take any health risks by consuming cheese past its expiration date.
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Health risks
Parmesan cheese has a relatively long shelf life, especially when stored properly. When stored in a refrigerator under the right conditions, Parmesan can last for several weeks to months. Properly sealed packaging protects the cheese from exposure to air and moisture, which can accelerate spoilage. The temperature of the refrigerator should be set below 40°F (4°C) to slow down bacterial growth.
However, Parmesan cheese can still expire, and consuming expired cheese may pose some health risks. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it is best to discard the cheese to avoid the risk of illness. Mould can grow on Parmesan cheese, and while it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion, eating mouldy cheese may cause stomach pain and diarrhoea, which are symptoms of food poisoning.
In addition, the fat in Parmesan cheese can go rancid, and the cheese can develop an ammonia-like smell, indicating that it has spoiled and should be discarded. Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of Parmesan cheese. This includes using vacuum-sealed bags or containers with tight lids for grated or shredded Parmesan and minimising handling to reduce the risk of contamination.
While the consumption of expired Parmesan cheese may not always lead to severe health issues, it is important to practise caution and proper food safety habits to minimise potential risks. In some cases, expired cheese may still be safe to consume, especially if it has been properly stored and shows no signs of spoilage. However, it is always recommended to check for signs of spoilage and follow safe food handling practices to reduce the risk of any adverse health effects.
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Freezing
To freeze Parmesan cheese, start by dividing it into smaller portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no part of the cheese is exposed to air. Then, place each wrapped portion into a separate airtight container or resealable bag. It is crucial to prevent air exposure, as air can cause the cheese to dry out, affecting its texture and flavour.
Once the cheese is securely wrapped and sealed, label the containers or bags with the date and store them in the freezer. Parmesan cheese can be frozen for up to 6 months, although it will remain safe to consume indefinitely if properly stored.
When you are ready to use the frozen Parmesan cheese, simply remove it from the freezer and thaw it in the refrigerator. It is recommended to thaw the cheese slowly and gradually to preserve its flavour and texture. Once thawed, the cheese can be grated or shredded and used as desired.
It is important to note that freezing Parmesan cheese may alter its texture slightly. Some people prefer to grate the cheese before freezing, as this can make it easier to use in smaller portions without thawing the entire block. Grated Parmesan cheese can also be frozen in ice cube trays, providing convenient portion sizes for future use.
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Spoilage
Parmesan cheese can spoil and expire, especially if it is not stored properly. Spoilage of Parmesan cheese can occur due to a variety of factors, including time, temperature, exposure to moisture, and contamination.
Time is a significant factor in the spoilage of Parmesan cheese. The longer the cheese is stored, the higher the likelihood of spoilage. While some sources suggest that Parmesan cheese can last for several years if properly stored, others advise against consuming cheese that is past its expiration date. It is recommended to check for signs of spoilage and follow safe food handling practices to avoid potential health risks.
Temperature plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality and extending the shelf life of Parmesan cheese. Optimal storage temperatures for Parmesan cheese are between 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C). Storing the cheese at these temperatures helps slow down bacterial growth and prevents spoilage.
Exposure to moisture can also impact the spoilage of Parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese should be wrapped appropriately to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth. It is recommended to use wax paper or parchment paper, followed by a loose covering of aluminum foil, to allow the cheese to breathe and maintain its texture.
Contamination can introduce harmful bacteria and affect the safety of Parmesan cheese. Proper storage and handling practices are essential to avoid cross-contamination and prevent spoilage. This includes storing Parmesan cheese separately from fresh produce and ensuring that the cheese is well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing odours or moisture from other refrigerator contents.
In summary, spoilage of Parmesan cheese can be minimized by adhering to proper storage guidelines, maintaining optimal temperatures, preventing moisture buildup, and practising safe food handling. By doing so, consumers can extend the shelf life of Parmesan cheese and reduce the risk of spoilage and its associated health hazards.
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Grated vs block
Parmesan cheese is a delicious addition to pasta and salads, adding a salty, nutty flavour. It is also a tasty snack straight from the fridge! When it comes to choosing between grated and block Parmesan, there are a few things to consider in terms of taste, convenience, and shelf life.
Taste
The best-tasting Parmesan cheese usually comes from a wheel that has been aged for months in Italy. However, this is not always accessible or affordable for the average consumer. Grated Parmesan cheese often has a less desirable texture and taste compared to freshly grated Parmesan from a block. Some brands, such as Kraft, offer blends that taste closer to real Parmesan, with a good balance of saltiness and nuttiness. Nevertheless, for the true Parmesan experience, it is recommended to buy a block and grate it yourself.
Convenience
Grated Parmesan cheese is undoubtedly more convenient than buying a block. It is readily available in most grocery stores and can be easily sprinkled onto your favourite dishes. It also saves you the effort of grating the cheese yourself. However, if you are looking for a specific type of grated Parmesan, such as canned or shredded, you may need to visit a specialty store.
Shelf Life
When it comes to shelf life, block Parmesan typically lasts longer than grated Parmesan. Grated Parmesan may develop mould or spoil faster, especially if not stored properly. To extend the shelf life of grated Parmesan, it is recommended to store it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag in the refrigerator, at temperatures between 1°C to 4°C.
In conclusion, while grated Parmesan offers convenience and accessibility, a block of Parmesan provides superior taste and a longer shelf life. If you are particular about the flavour and texture of your Parmesan, opting for a block and grating it yourself is the way to go. However, if convenience is your priority, grated Parmesan can still enhance your meals, as long as you store and consume it properly.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, all grated cheeses expire, including Parmesan. However, Parmesan can last for several months beyond its expiration date if unopened and stored properly. If opened, its shelf life depends on how well it is sealed and stored.
Parmesan cheese that has gone bad will show certain signs of spoilage. This includes changes in colour, texture, and smell. If you notice mould on the surface, it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion and consume the rest of the cheese. However, if the cheese has developed an ammonia-like smell, it is best to throw it away.
Parmesan cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally at temperatures between 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C). It should be well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours. For optimal preservation, wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper, followed by a loose covering of aluminium foil. This allows the cheese to breathe and prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to mould growth.
