Patrick Oconnell
Jarlsberg cheese is a Swiss-style cheese with a sweet and nutty flavor. It is one of the most popular imported cheeses in the United States, with an annual import of 15 million pounds. Like all cheeses, Jarlsberg cheese can go bad, especially if not stored properly. To maximize its shelf life, it should be kept in the refrigerator at all times and wrapped tightly in wax or parchment paper. When stored this way, an opened package of Jarlsberg cheese will typically last for 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage | Refrigerate at all times, wrapped tightly in wax or parchment paper. |
| Shelf Life | 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator after opening. |
| Freezing | Can be frozen for up to 6 months. |
| Mold | Cut away moldy areas, ensuring to cut at least 1 inch around and below the mold. |
| Temperature | Do not leave unrefrigerated for more than 3 hours. |
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What You'll Learn
How long does Jarlsberg cheese last once opened?
The shelf life of a chunk of Jarlsberg cheese depends on its storage conditions. To maximise its shelf life, it's important to keep the cheese wrapped tightly in wax paper or parchment paper and stored in the refrigerator at all times. This will ensure that the cheese lasts for 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator. If you notice any mold forming on the surface, cut it away, and the remaining cheese should still be safe to consume. To extend the shelf life of Jarlsberg cheese even further, you can freeze it. Cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound each, wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place them inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, Jarlsberg cheese will maintain its best quality for about 6 months in the freezer but will remain safe beyond that time.
It's worth noting that temperature-controlled food should not be left in the danger zone (40°F to 140°F) for more than two hours if storing or four hours if consuming and tossing.
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What is the best way to store Jarlsberg cheese?
To store Jarlsberg cheese, it is crucial to keep it in the refrigerator at all times. When storing the cheese, it is recommended to wrap it tightly in wax paper or parchment paper to allow it to breathe while still protecting it from moisture and odours. Plastic wrap or airtight containers should be avoided as they can trap moisture and promote mould growth. Additionally, it is wise to store Jarlsberg cheese away from strong-smelling foods, as it can easily absorb odours.
If you notice any mould forming on the surface of the cheese, simply cut it away, and the remaining cheese should still be safe to consume. Cut at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the mouldy area, ensuring not to touch the mould with the knife, and re-cover the cheese in fresh wrap. However, if mould appears in shredded, sliced, or crumbled Jarlsberg cheese, the entire package should be discarded.
To extend the shelf life of Jarlsberg cheese, you can freeze it. It is recommended to grate the cheese before freezing to maintain its texture. To freeze a block of Jarlsberg cheese, cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound (226 grams) each, and wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place them inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, Jarlsberg cheese will maintain its best quality for about six months in the freezer but will remain safe beyond that time.
When serving Jarlsberg cheese, it is best to allow it to come to room temperature to enjoy its fullest flavour. While it is important to refrigerate the cheese for preservation, taking up to an hour to let it come to room temperature will enhance its flavour.
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What happens if Jarlsberg cheese is left out of the fridge?
Jarlsberg cheese is a semi-soft, medium-fat Swiss-style cheese with a distinctive sweet and nutty flavour. It is one of the most popular imported cheeses in the United States, with 15 million pounds imported annually.
Proper storage is crucial to prolonging the shelf life and maintaining the quality of Jarlsberg cheese. It is recommended to always keep the cheese refrigerated and wrapped tightly in wax or parchment paper. This allows the cheese to breathe while protecting it from moisture and odours. It is also advisable to store Jarlsberg cheese away from strong-smelling foods, as it can easily absorb odours.
If Jarlsberg cheese is left out of the fridge, its safety and quality may be compromised, especially if it is exposed to warm temperatures for an extended period. According to food safety guidelines, temperature-controlled foods like cheese should not be left in the "danger zone" of 40°F to 140°F for more than two hours if storing or four hours if consuming and discarding.
Leaving Jarlsberg cheese unrefrigerated for a short period, such as a few hours at a cool room temperature, may not pose a significant risk. However, it is essential to inspect the cheese for any signs of spoilage before consuming it. If the cheese shows signs of mould or other deterioration, it should be discarded.
To maximise the shelf life of Jarlsberg cheese, it is best to follow proper storage practices. After opening, wrap the cheese tightly in wax or parchment paper and then cover it with plastic wrap before refrigerating. Properly stored, an opened chunk of Jarlsberg cheese will typically last for 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.
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Can you freeze Jarlsberg cheese?
Yes, you can freeze Jarlsberg cheese. Freezing is a convenient option to extend the shelf life of the cheese. To freeze Jarlsberg cheese, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. You can also use aluminium foil or place it in heavy-duty freezer bags. When you're ready to use the cheese, slowly thaw it in the refrigerator to maintain its flavour and avoid moisture loss.
It's worth noting that freezing Jarlsberg cheese may slightly alter its texture. The cheese can become crumbly, so it's best to use it in cooked dishes rather than eating it directly.
For best quality, Jarlsberg cheese will maintain its quality for about 8 months in the freezer but will remain safe beyond that time. Once defrosted, the cheese can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Like many other cheeses, Jarlsberg can be frozen. However, it's important to remember that freezing may affect its texture. When in doubt, refer to the packaging or the manufacturer's website for specific storage instructions.
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What should you wrap Jarlsberg cheese in?
To maintain the quality and prolong the shelf life of Jarlsberg cheese, it is crucial to store it properly. The cheese should be kept in the refrigerator at all times and wrapped tightly.
The best way to wrap Jarlsberg cheese is to use wax paper or parchment paper. This allows the cheese to breathe while protecting it from moisture and odours. It is important to note that plastic wrap and airtight containers should be avoided, as they can trap moisture and promote mould growth. Additionally, Jarlsberg cheese should be stored away from strong-smelling foods, as it can easily absorb odours.
If you wish to further extend the shelf life of Jarlsberg cheese, you can freeze it. To do this, cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound each. Then, wrap the portions tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place them inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. When properly stored, Jarlsberg cheese will maintain its best quality for about six months in the freezer but will remain safe beyond that time.
It is important to note that temperature-controlled food, including cheese, should not be left in the "danger zone" (40°F to 140°F) for more than two hours if storing or four hours if consuming and discarding.
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Frequently asked questions
An opened chunk of Jarlsberg cheese will last for 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator if it is wrapped tightly in wax or parchment paper.
Yes, Jarlsberg cheese can be frozen. Cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound each, and wrap tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, it will maintain the best quality for about 6 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
If the cheese has been unrefrigerated for less than two hours (or four hours if it will be consumed and tossed), it should be safe to refrigerate and use later. However, if the cheese has been left out for longer, it is recommended to discard it.
