Cheese Storage: Cooper Cheese Block Shelf Life

The shelf life of cheese depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, moisture content, and storage conditions. For example, soft cheeses like mozzarella and feta have a shorter shelf life than harder cheeses like aged cheddar and Parmigiano Reggiano due to their higher moisture content, which provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Proper storage is crucial to extending the shelf life of cheese, such as keeping it refrigerated and wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. In general, an unopened package of brick cheese can last between two and four months in the refrigerator, while an opened package can be safe for up to six weeks.

Sealed brick of Cooper cheese: shelf life

The shelf life of a sealed brick of Cooper cheese depends on several factors, including storage conditions, moisture content, and the type of cheese.

Firstly, it is important to keep the cheese refrigerated at all times. Proper storage is essential to extend the shelf life of cheese. For sealed brick cheese, it is recommended to keep it in its original packaging and store it in the refrigerator. If the package is opened, the cheese can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or first wrapped in wax or parchment paper and then covered with plastic wrap before refrigeration.

The moisture content of the cheese also plays a role in its shelf life. Soft cheeses, such as cream cheese, Brie, mozzarella, feta, Gorgonzola, and Camembert, have higher moisture content and therefore a shorter shelf life compared to harder cheeses. Soft cheeses should be consumed within one to two weeks of opening. In contrast, hard cheeses like aged cheddar, aged Gouda, and Parmigiano Reggiano have lower moisture levels, making it difficult for bacteria to flourish. As a result, unopened packages of hard cheese can last about six months, while opened packages can last about four weeks in the refrigerator.

Additionally, the quality of the seal and the temperature at which the cheese is stored are crucial factors. A tight seal helps to preserve the cheese, and vacuum sealing can further extend its shelf life. If stored at a constant temperature of 0°F, shredded brick cheese, for example, can remain safe indefinitely.

In summary, a sealed brick of Cooper cheese can last for several weeks to months, depending on the type of cheese, the quality of the seal, and the storage conditions. To maximize shelf life, it is essential to follow proper storage guidelines and maintain refrigeration at all times.

Proper storage of brick cheese

To maximise the shelf life of brick cheese, it should be kept refrigerated at all times. The cool temperature of the refrigerator slows down bacterial growth, preserving the cheese's freshness and flavour. When stored at the correct temperature, brick cheese can last 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator after opening.

To store brick cheese, remove it from its plastic packaging. Then, wrap the cheese in a pliable yet breathable material such as wax paper or cheese paper. Finally, place the wrapped cheese in a container with an airtight lid and store it in the refrigerator. This storage method allows the cheese to breathe and release moisture while protecting it from low humidity in the fridge.

It is important to note that brick cheese should not be stored in direct contact with plastic wrap as this can affect its flavour. Instead, a layer of breathable paper can be added between the cheese and a loose layer of plastic wrap or a plastic bag to keep fridge odours from seeping in.

To further extend the shelf life of brick cheese, it can be frozen. To freeze brick cheese, cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound each and wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place them inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. When properly stored, brick cheese will maintain its best quality for about 2 months in the freezer, but it will remain safe beyond that time.

Signs that brick cheese has gone bad

A brick of Cooper cheese that has been sealed will last for 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. However, if you notice any of the following signs, the cheese has likely gone bad:

• Hard texture: Brick cheese that is going bad will often develop a very hard texture.
• Discoloration: If your brick cheese starts to darken in color, it is likely going bad.
• Strong smell: Fresh brick cheese has a mild and slightly tangy smell. If it develops a strong, rancid, or ammonia-like odour, it has likely gone bad.
• Mold: Mold formation is a clear sign that cheese has gone bad. If you spot any fuzzy patches or discolored spots, it's best to discard the cheese.
• Bitter taste: If brick cheese has gone bad, it may taste bitter or have an unpleasant aftertaste.

It's important to note that mold on hard cheeses like brick cheese can sometimes be cut off, along with the surrounding area, if it hasn't spread to the entire cheese. However, if you're unsure, it's always better to discard the cheese to avoid any potential health risks.

Freezing brick cheese

When preparing brick cheese for freezing, cut it into portions no larger than half a pound each. You can then wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. It is important to reduce oxygen contact as much as possible to prevent freezer burn and extend shelf life.

The ideal temperature for freezing brick cheese is 0°F (-17.7°C) or lower. Cheese can be kept frozen indefinitely at this temperature, but for the best quality, it is recommended to use it within two to three months.

To thaw frozen brick cheese, place it in the refrigerator for 7-8 hours per pound of cheese. It is best to use the cheese within a few days to a few weeks after thawing to allow it to ripen slightly. Do not refreeze previously frozen and thawed cheese, as this will further affect its texture and flavour.

In summary, freezing is a convenient way to extend the shelf life of brick cheese, but it is important to follow proper preparation and storage techniques to maintain its quality. Frozen brick cheese is best suited for cooked dishes where changes in texture will be less noticeable.

How to tell if brick cheese is spoiled

Brick cheese is a cheese that originated in Wisconsin, US, and is known for its brick-shaped form. When unaged, it has a sweet, mild flavour and is suitable for melting. After ageing, it has a stronger smell and a more nutty taste.

To maximise the shelf life of a chunk of brick cheese, it should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. For better results, wrap the cheese first in wax or parchment paper and then cover it with plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Properly stored, brick cheese will last for 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. If you want to further extend the shelf life, you can freeze it. Cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound each, and wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place them inside a heavy-duty freezer bag.

Now, how can you tell if brick cheese is spoiled? Here are some signs to look out for:

• Appearance: Brick cheese that is going bad will typically develop a very hard texture, will darken in colour, and mould may appear.
• Smell: Spoiled cheese emits a strong, unpleasant odour. It may smell sour, ammonia-like, or even rancid.
• Taste: Spoiled cheese will taste bitter, sour, or rancid. It may also have a metallic aftertaste.

If your brick cheese shows any of these signs, it's best to discard it. Consuming spoiled cheese can lead to foodborne illnesses, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Frequently asked questions