Cheese Truckles: Unopened Shelf Life And Storage Tips

Whole truckles of cheese have traditionally been kept and matured in the open air. However, once cut into wedges, they benefit from being stored in a cool environment, like a fridge, and eaten quickly. When refrigerated, unopened cheese truckles can last for one to two months, while cut pieces of cheese will not last as long. Harder cheeses will last longer than softer cheeses, with semi-soft cheeses lasting for a period in between.

Refrigeration: Cheddar truckles should be stored in the fridge

Cheddar truckles should be stored in the fridge, ideally at temperatures between 5°C and 8°C. While whole truckles of cheese can be matured in the open air, once cut into wedges, they should be stored in a cool environment and eaten relatively quickly. This is because cut pieces of cheese have a shorter shelf life than whole cheeses.

When storing cheddar truckles in the fridge, it is important to wrap them loosely in waxed paper, which allows the cheese to breathe without completely drying out. Foil or cling film can also be used for short periods, but if the cheese is wrapped too tightly in cling film, excess moisture can build up, encouraging mould to grow.

In addition to storing cheddar truckles in the fridge, it is recommended to keep them in a sealed plastic box or tightly wrapped in cling film. This helps to protect the cheese from the dry environment of the fridge while keeping it cool.

By following these refrigeration and storage guidelines, unopened cheddar truckles can last for up to two to six months. However, once the cheese is opened, it will typically last for one to two months. It is important to note that cut pieces of cheese will not last as long as whole truckles, and softer cheeses have a shorter shelf life than harder ones.

Vacuum packing: Extends the life of most firm cheeses

Vacuum packing is a suitable preservation method for most firm cheeses, such as cheddar and parmesan. It is a great way to extend the life of these hard cheeses.

The sous-vide method of vacuum sealing removes all the air and creates an air-tight wrapper. This absence of oxygen slows down the proliferation of bacteria and other micro-organisms responsible for the decomposition process. This ensures optimum preservation of the product and better preserves its taste and nutritional qualities. Vacuum sealing also protects the cheese from spoiling and helps to preserve its flavour, look, and freshness.

Vacuum sealing extends the shelf life of cheese to 4 to 6 months, much longer than ordinary bags or containers. It is a suitable preservation method for bulk cheese, shredded cheese, blocks of cheese, and individual snack cheese, whether it is natural, organic, or processed.

However, it is important to note that vacuum sealing is not recommended for soft cheeses, such as blue cheese and brie. These cheeses are living, breathing organisms that require oxygen to thrive and can be damaged by the vacuum process. Additionally, these cheeses generally continue to ripen after production, a process that can be hindered by a lack of oxygen.

Best before dates: Waxed cheeses can last up to three months

Waxed cheeses can last up to three months when unopened. This is because the wax coating helps to prevent unwanted mould growth and retains moisture while the cheese is aged. The wax also keeps the cheese cooler for longer, meaning that it can be left out of refrigeration for up to 24 hours.

However, once a waxed cheese truckle is opened, it will usually last for 1-2 months. Harder cheeses will last longer than softer cheeses, with semi-soft cheeses lasting for a period in between.

It is important to note that, while whole truckles of cheese have traditionally been kept and matured in the open air, most cheeses, once cut into wedges, should be kept in a cool environment such as a fridge and eaten relatively quickly.

To store a waxed cheese truckle, it is recommended to keep it in a cool, dry place, such as an upstairs closet. In warmer months, it may be beneficial to move the cheese to a basement or other cooler location.

Freezing: Cheddar truckles can be frozen for up to six months

Cheddar truckles can be frozen for up to six months. This is a great way to extend the shelf life of your cheese.

To freeze cheddar truckles, start by wrapping the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. This is an important step to prevent freezer burn and maintain the cheese's texture and flavour. Then, place the wrapped cheese in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. Before sealing the container or bag, squeeze out any excess air to minimise the risk of freezer burn and to maintain the cheese's quality. Finally, label each package with the type of cheese and the date of freezing. This will help you keep track of the cheese's shelf life and ensure you consume it within the recommended time frame.

When you're ready to use your frozen cheddar truckle, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight to preserve its texture and flavour. It is not recommended to consume thawed cheese raw, as freezing can alter its texture and consistency. Instead, use the thawed cheese for melting or cooking applications.

Storage: Keep cheese cool, dry and wrapped

Keeping your cheese cool, dry, and wrapped is essential for prolonging its shelf life. Here are some detailed instructions to help you store your cheese optimally:

• Cool temperature: Cheese should be stored in a cool environment, preferably in a refrigerator. The ideal temperature range for storing cheese is between 5°C to 8°C. This helps prevent bacterial growth and slows down the maturation process, keeping your cheese fresh for longer.
• Dry environment: Ensure that the storage area is dry. Moisture can lead to excess moisture buildup on the cheese, promoting mould growth.
• Wrapping: Loosely wrap the cheese in waxed paper, allowing it to breathe without completely drying out. Foil or cling film can also be used for short periods, but avoid wrapping too tightly to prevent excess moisture buildup.

Additionally, it is important to note that different types of cheese have varying shelf lives. Harder cheeses, such as cheddar, generally last longer than softer varieties. Cut pieces of cheese will also have a shorter shelf life compared to whole truckles.

By following these storage instructions, you can effectively prolong the life of your cheese and maintain its quality and flavour.

Frequently asked questions