Randy Chandler
Does cheddar cheese need to be refrigerated? This is a question that many people ask, and the answer may surprise you. While refrigeration can help extend the shelf life of cheese, not all cheeses need to be stored in the fridge. In fact, many cheeses are meant to be stored at room temperature, including some hard cheeses like aged cheddar, parmesan, and gouda, which have very little moisture and can last longer at room temperature compared to softer cheeses.
Does Cheddar Cheese Have to Be Refrigerated?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Not required for safety but will last longer if kept refrigerated |
| Freezing | Not recommended as it can affect texture and taste |
| Packaging | Should be appropriately wrapped if refrigerated |
| Temperature | Should be stored in the warmest part of the fridge if refrigerated |
| Storage | Can be stored in a cool, dry place like a pantry |
| Shelf Life | Extending the shelf life by refrigerating |
| Texture | Dry and flaky texture |
| Moisture Content | Low moisture content |
| Contamination | Less prone to contamination due to low moisture content |
| Variety | Aged cheddar, bulk cheddar, and shredded cheddar |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar cheese can be kept unrefrigerated
Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese that can be kept unrefrigerated. Semi-hard cheeses are aged similarly to hard cheeses, but they have a milder taste and a slightly softer texture. They are dense in consistency and can be sliced, grated, or cubed.
Aged cheddar, in particular, is a variety of cheese that does not need refrigeration. This is because most aged cheeses are hard and have very little moisture, allowing them to last at room temperature. However, refrigeration can help extend the shelf life of these cheeses.
While unrefrigerated cheddar cheese may be safe to consume, it is important to consider the potential impact on taste, flavor, quality, and texture over time. Additionally, the proper storage of cheese is crucial for maintaining its shelf life. Unlike plastic wrap, which can trap moisture and promote bacteria growth, cheese needs to breathe, so a better storage option is recommended.
It is worth noting that the decision to refrigerate or not may depend on personal preference and regional customs. For example, Americans tend to store foods in the fridge by default, whereas in other countries, bread, eggs, produce, and cured meat products are often stored in the pantry.
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Soft cheeses need refrigeration
Soft cheeses typically need to be refrigerated to stay fresh and safe for consumption. These include soft or runny cheeses like goat cheese, cottage cheese, ricotta, cream cheese, and mozzarella. However, refrigeration can impact the taste of these cheeses, and some people believe that fresh mozzarella tastes better when served at room temperature.
Soft cheeses are often referred to as "fresh" cheeses, and they are either not aged or only aged for a short period, which makes them more perishable. By storing them in the fridge, you can extend their shelf life. Once opened or cut into, cheeses like Brie and Camembert, which have protective rinds, should also be refrigerated to prevent contamination.
On the other hand, harder, drier cheeses with low moisture content, such as Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, aged cheddar, and aged gouda, can be safely stored outside of the fridge. Their hard and flaky texture, along with the low water content, makes them less likely to spoil when left at room temperature.
It is always recommended to check the packaging and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific type of cheese you are storing. Additionally, while some cheeses can be stored at room temperature, refrigeration can help extend their shelf life and keep them fresher for longer.
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Cheddar's shelf life is extended by refrigeration
Cheddar is a hard cheese, and hard cheeses generally do not require refrigeration. However, refrigeration does extend their shelf life. Cheddar, like other hard cheeses, has a low moisture content, which means it is less prone to bacterial growth and spoilage. Nevertheless, refrigeration can help keep cheddar fresher for longer.
According to the USDA, hard cheeses such as cheddar, processed cheeses, and both block and grated Parmesan do not require refrigeration for safety. Still, they will last longer if kept refrigerated. The recommended storage times for hard cheeses in the refrigerator are approximately six months for unopened packages and three to four weeks after opening.
Aged cheddars, in particular, are pressed under pressure and aged longer, resulting in a lower moisture content. This makes them ideal for room-temperature storage. Younger cheddars, on the other hand, are semi-hard and have a firmer texture, so they should be refrigerated.
It is worth noting that some cheeses, like Brie and Camembert, benefit from being stored at room temperature as it enhances their flavour and texture. However, once these cheeses are cut into, they should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
The ideal way to store cheese is to use cheese paper, a composite material with porous plastic on the inside and waxy paper on the outside. Cheese needs to "breathe" as it is made with good bacteria and desirable moulds, some of which are still alive when purchased.
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Cheddar should be brought to room temperature before serving
Cheddar is a semi-hard cheese, which means it has a firm texture but is slightly softer than hard cheeses like Parmesan. Semi-hard cheeses are aged similarly to hard cheeses, but for a shorter period, giving them a milder taste. Cheddar is usually aged between two and three months for a milder flavour, but can be aged for over two years to develop a stronger taste.
While refrigeration can help to extend the shelf life of cheddar, it is not necessary for the cheese to remain edible. Cheddar is a low-moisture cheese with a dense consistency, which means it can last longer at room temperature than soft cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese.
In fact, bringing cheddar to room temperature before serving can improve its flavour and texture. This is because taking the chill off the cheese helps to unlock its full range of flavours.
However, it is important to note that cheddar should not be left out of the fridge for extended periods. The Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin recommend that if cheddar has been left out of the fridge for four hours or less, it can be rewrapped and returned to the fridge. If it has been left out for longer than four hours, it is important to check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
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Cheddar can be frozen
Cheddar cheese can be frozen. Freezing cheese is a good way to reduce waste and prolong its shelf life. However, it is important to note that freezing cheese may cause changes in its texture and quality. For example, it may become drier, crumbly, and mealy, and it will be harder to slice.
Before freezing cheddar cheese, it is recommended to cut it into smaller portions or grate it. This makes it easier to use after thawing, as you can thaw smaller portions at a time. Cheddar cheese can also be frozen in its original packaging or wrapped in foil or cheese paper. To further extend the shelf life and prevent freezer burn, you can use a vacuum sealer or double bag it in Ziploc bags.
It is important to note that freezing cheese may affect its texture and quality. Frozen cheddar cheese may become crumbly and not slice as well after thawing. Therefore, it is recommended to use frozen cheddar cheese in cooked dishes rather than eating it fresh.
Additionally, when freezing cheddar cheese, it is important to check the packaging for the manufacturer's recommendations. Some cheeses may not be suitable for freezing, especially those with natural rinds, as it can create undesirable flavors.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheddar is a semi-hard cheese that can be stored at room temperature. However, refrigeration can extend its shelf life.
Leaving cheese out for longer than four hours may not pose a health risk, but it may change in taste, flavour, quality, or texture.
Bad smell, slimy surface, dark spots, dryness, cracks, or mould are some signs of spoilage in hard cheeses.
Cheddar cheese should be wrapped and stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid using plastic wrap as it prevents the cheese from "breathing out" ammonia and other natural byproducts.
