Randy Chandler
Parmesan cheese is a beloved staple in many kitchens, known for its rich, nutty flavor and impressive longevity. Its unique characteristics, such as low moisture content and high salt levels, contribute to its long shelf life by inhibiting the growth of spoilage-causing bacteria and mould. However, even this hardy cheese can eventually turn, so it's important to know the signs of spoilage to ensure you're consuming safe and delicious Parmesan.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Look for mould growth, which may appear as blue or green spots on the surface. Browning can also indicate spoilage. |
| Smell | A sour, rancid, or otherwise unpleasant smell, distinct from the cheese's natural nutty aroma, can indicate spoilage. |
| Texture | Parmesan may be spoiled if it feels slimy or has a significantly harder or crumbly texture than usual. An oily film or excessive dryness can also indicate spoilage. |
| Taste | An off taste is a clear indication that the cheese should not be consumed. |
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What You'll Learn
Mould growth
If there are only a few specks of mould on the Parmesan cheese, it is generally safe to consume, especially if cooked. The mould can be scraped or cut off, and the cheese can be used in cooked dishes or grated over pasta. However, if there is significant mould growth or if it occurs repeatedly, it is better to discard the cheese to avoid potential health risks and unpleasant flavours.
It is worth noting that mould growth on Parmesan cheese can be prevented by proper storage. Storing Parmesan in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap can help maintain its freshness and reduce the likelihood of mould development. Additionally, purchasing long-aged Parmesan cheeses can decrease the chances of mould issues, as they have lower moisture content and are less prone to spoilage.
While mould on Parmesan cheese may not always be dangerous, it is essential to be cautious, especially when serving it to young children or individuals with sensitive stomachs. If there is any doubt about the safety of the cheese, it is best to discard it and purchase a fresh block or grated Parmesan cheese to ensure food safety and maintain the desired flavour profile.
In summary, mould growth on Parmesan cheese can be managed by cutting or scraping off the affected areas, but preventing mould through proper storage and purchasing long-aged cheeses is the best way to ensure the quality and safety of this beloved Italian staple.
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Smell
Parmesan cheese has a strong smell when fresh, but it shouldn't smell mouldy. If you detect a sour or rancid smell, it has likely gone bad. This is distinct from the cheese's natural nutty aroma.
Parmesan cheese is a low-moisture, dehydrated cheese, so it doesn't attract much mould growth. However, mould can still develop, and it is a sign of spoilage. If you notice any mould on your Parmesan cheese, it's best to discard it. While some mouldy cheeses can be salvaged by cutting off the mouldy section, Parmesan is more susceptible to mould spreading throughout the cheese, not just on the surface.
If you're unsure whether your Parmesan cheese has gone bad, use your senses of smell and sight. If a cheese has a strong smell, especially similar to ammonia or cat urine, it has likely gone bad. A change in colour, such as a grey or yellowish tint, can also indicate spoilage.
It's important to note that the shelf life of Parmesan cheese can vary based on factors such as the specific product, storage conditions, fridge temperature, and humidity. An unopened package can last in the refrigerator for quite some time, especially if it's vacuum-sealed. Once opened, Parmesan cheese should be wrapped in wax paper and stored in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag in the coldest part of your fridge.
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Texture
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese that generally lasts longer than softer cheeses. If stored properly, it can last for a very long time. However, it is important to know how to identify when Parmesan cheese has gone bad to ensure food safety.
While hard cheeses like Parmesan can have surface mould trimmed off, widespread mould growth indicates that the cheese should be discarded. Browning, a complex reaction between reducing sugars and amino acids from the breakdown of protein in the cheese, is another sign of spoilage in Parmesan. Any significant colour change can indicate that the cheese has spoiled, and while it may still be safe to consume, its flavour and texture will be suboptimal.
In summary, changes in the texture of Parmesan cheese, such as sliminess, excessive hardness, or crumbly consistency, are signs that it has gone bad. Additionally, widespread mould growth and colour changes like browning should also be considered indicators of spoilage.
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Colour
It is important to familiarise yourself with the cheese you've bought as soon as you've opened it. Note its original colour, texture, smell, and taste. That way, you’ll be able to tell if something has gone wrong with the cheese over time. Any significant colour change in cheese can be a sign that the cheese has spoiled. While this may not necessarily mean that the cheese is unsafe to eat, its flavour and texture will definitely be sub-optimal. As always, if you are unsure, discard the cheese.
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Storage
Parmesan cheese has a long shelf life, but it can go bad. To avoid this, it should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Always wash your hands before and after handling the cheese, and use clean utensils and a dedicated cheese cutting board to avoid flavour contamination.
The low moisture content and salt content of parmesan are what give it its impressive shelf life. The low moisture content means there is less water activity, leaving fewer opportunities for bacteria and mould to thrive. The salt acts as a preservative, inhibiting the growth of spoilage-causing microorganisms.
However, parmesan can still spoil, so it is important to know how to store it properly and for how long. If stored properly, parmesan can last for months, and some sources suggest it can even last for years. Vacuum-packed parmesan can last for decades.
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Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese has a long shelf life, but it can go bad. Here are some signs of spoilage to look out for:
- Mould growth, which may appear as blue or green spots on the surface. While surface mould can be trimmed off, widespread mould suggests it's time to discard the cheese.
- A sour or rancid smell, distinct from the cheese's natural nutty aroma.
- A change in texture, such as becoming overly hard, crumbly, slimy, or exhibiting an oily film beyond its typical dry and granular nature.
- A change in colour, where the cheese may turn darker or exhibit a yellowish tint.
Parmesan is a hard, aged cheese that is crafted through a meticulous ageing process, typically aged for 12 months or more, and up to 36 months. This ageing process results in a cheese with very low moisture content, which is crucial to its long shelf life. With less moisture available, bacteria and mould have fewer opportunities to thrive, thus extending the shelf life of Parmesan cheese.
Parmesan cheese should always be refrigerated for long-term storage. To extend its shelf life and preserve its taste and quality, it should be stored in an airtight container or tightly sealed in its original packaging to prevent moisture. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching the cheese to prevent the introduction of bacteria, and use clean utensils and cheese boards to avoid flavour contamination.
Consuming spoiled cheese can lead to foodborne illnesses with symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea. If you suspect that your Parmesan cheese has gone bad, it is best to discard it and avoid potential health risks.
