Bushra Griffith
Blue cheese is a notoriously tricky cheese to ship due to its temperature-sensitive nature and pungent odour. However, with the right packaging and shipping method, it is possible to send blue cheese without it spoiling. This introduction will cover the key considerations for shipping blue cheese, including packaging materials, temperature control, and shipping speed, to ensure the cheese arrives in optimal condition.
Characteristics of shipping blue cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Blue cheese is temperature-sensitive and has a short shelf life. Harder cheeses like cheddar can be stored at room temperature. |
| Packaging | Use a sturdy cardboard box. Wrap crumbled blue cheese in an airtight food-safe container. Wrap blocks of blue cheese in parchment paper, then plastic wrap, and place in a food-safe container. |
| Cooling | Use frozen gel packs or dry ice to keep the cheese cool during transit. Do not use regular ice as it will melt and ruin the package. |
| Shipping method | Choose the fastest shipping method available to prevent spoilage. |
| Shipping time | Consider the time of year and the destination climate. Shipping to warmer places during the summer may require additional cooling measures. |
| Recipient availability | Contact the recipient to ensure someone is home to receive the package and immediately refrigerate the cheese. |
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What You'll Learn
Packaging and prep
Blue cheese is a challenging type of cheese to ship due to its temperature sensitivity and pungent odour. It requires careful packaging and preparation to ensure it arrives in good condition. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly package and prepare blue cheese for shipping:
Firstly, decide on the right type of container for the blue cheese. If you are shipping crumbled blue cheese, place it in an airtight, food-safe container, ensuring it is well-sealed. For blocks of blue cheese, wrap them in parchment paper and then cover them in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped block into a food-safe container and close the lid securely.
Next, choose an appropriate shipping box. Opt for a sturdy cardboard box that is slightly larger than the cheese container to allow for additional items. The box should be new and corrugated to provide durability and protection during transit. If you are sending the cheese as a gift, consider choosing a fun colour or festive design that the recipient will appreciate. You can also add personalised accents, such as a ribbon or a note, to make it extra special.
Once you have the container and box ready, it's time to assemble the package. Place the cheese container in the centre of the box and surround it with frozen gel freezer packs to maintain a cool temperature during transit. You can also use dry ice, but be cautious not to touch it directly with your skin as it can cause burns. Fill any remaining spaces in the box with packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or crumpled newspaper to prevent the contents from shifting and provide additional cushioning. Ensure that the box is not overly filled, as this may cause the cheese to spoil.
Finally, seal the box securely. Use strong packing tape, preferably 2-inch wide, to seal all openings and seams of the box. This will help maintain the cool temperature inside and protect the contents from external elements.
Now, your blue cheese is ready to be shipped! Remember to choose a shipping service that offers fast delivery, ideally one to two days, to ensure the cheese arrives fresh and safe to consume.
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Choosing a shipping service
When it comes to choosing a shipping service for blue cheese, several factors come into play. Firstly, blue cheese is a temperature-sensitive product, so a fast shipping method is crucial to ensure its freshness upon arrival. Aim for a shipping service that delivers within one to two days to prevent spoilage.
Secondly, consider the destination of the shipment. If shipping to a warmer climate, extra measures to maintain a cool temperature are necessary. Choose a shipping service that offers overnight delivery or priority mail to minimise the time the cheese is in transit, reducing the risk of spoilage. USPS Priority Mail Express is a good option for fast delivery, although it tends to be more expensive. Regular Priority Mail or First Class Package Service are more budget-friendly alternatives, but they may take a few extra days.
Additionally, look for a shipping service that offers proper handling and care for perishable items. This includes providing the necessary packing materials, such as insulated boxes or gel packs, to maintain the desired temperature during transit. Some companies even offer shipping insurance, which can provide added peace of mind in case of damage or loss during shipping.
When comparing shipping services, it is beneficial to research their experience and expertise in handling perishable food items, specifically cheese. A company with knowledge in this area is more likely to have the necessary equipment and processes to ensure your blue cheese arrives in optimal condition.
Lastly, consider the cost of shipping and any additional services you may require. Shipping costs can vary, so it is essential to get quotes from multiple providers and weigh them against the level of service and speed they offer. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision when choosing a shipping service for blue cheese.
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Avoiding spoilage
Blue cheese is a temperature-sensitive product that must be packed properly and shipped as quickly as possible. The best way to ship blue cheese is via reefer containers, which are specialised containers built to maintain optimal storage temperatures for perishables. These containers work like refrigerators, preventing cheese products from ripening too quickly and ensuring a longer shelf life by circulating cool air to avoid spoilage.
When shipping blue cheese, it is important to consider the type of cheese, time of year, and destination of the delivery. For example, if your cheese is prone to melting or sweating under certain temperatures, avoid sending it to a hot destination during summer. Some cheeses can be shipped in a few days and still arrive fresh, while others may require overnight delivery and can spoil if not delivered within a day.
To avoid spoilage, the recommended temperature to ship cheese is 35° F and below. If cheese is shipped at excessively cold temperatures, its quality degrades by drying out, leading to hardening, loss of aroma, and spoilage. On the other hand, if cheese is stored at very warm temperatures, it can get spoilt through moulding, expand in size, and rip through the packaging.
To prepare blue cheese for shipping, cut the cheese by hand and wrap it in plastic to eliminate any air. Place crumbled blue cheese in an airtight, food-safe container and ensure it is well-sealed. Wrap blocks of blue cheese in parchment paper and then cover them in plastic wrap before placing them in a food-safe container. Arrange frozen gel freezer packs around the blue cheese and fill in any empty space with packing peanuts or bubble wrap. Place the packed blue cheese into a sturdy cardboard shipping box that can accommodate the cheese container, packing peanuts, and ice gel packs. Seal the box with 2-inch packing tape and choose a reliable shipping company that can deliver the package within one to two days to prevent spoilage.
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Presentation
Firstly, the type of cheese will determine the packaging. Blue cheese is temperature-sensitive and has a short shelf life, so it must be packed properly and shipped as quickly as possible. It is best to use a sturdy cardboard box that is just big enough to fit the cheese and its packaging. Choose a corrugated box in a fun colour, perhaps reflecting the holiday season, and add personalised accents to make the gift extra special.
The cheese itself should be wrapped in parchment paper and covered in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped block into a food-safe container and close the lid. Then, arrange frozen gel freezer packs around the container and fill in any empty space with packing peanuts or bubble wrap. Seal the box with 2-inch packing tape.
You can also include some cheese board accessories, such as cheese knives, fun napkins, and serving plates. This will create a delightful gift of a picnic in a box.
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Labelling and insurance
Labelling your package correctly is essential to ensure your blue cheese arrives at its destination. You will need to complete the shipping label with your address and the full address of the recipient. It is also important to alert the recipient that their blue cheese is on the way and to advise them to be home when it arrives. This type of cheese is temperature-sensitive and should be immediately refrigerated.
As well as completing the shipping label, you may also want to add a personalized gift note. This is especially fitting if you are sending a cheese plate or board for the holidays. You could also include some cheese board accessories, such as knives, fun napkins, or serving plates.
When shipping blue cheese, it is recommended to always purchase shipping insurance. All Priority Mail services come with $50 of insurance at the post office, which will cover you if your shipment is damaged or lost in transit. You may also want to consider the time of year and the destination of your package. For example, if you are shipping during the summer months or to a warmer climate, you will need to include packing material like gel packs to keep the cheese cool.
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Frequently asked questions
Wrap blocks of blue cheese in parchment paper, cover them in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight, food-safe container. Then, place the container in a sturdy cardboard shipping box with ice gel packs and packing peanuts or bubble wrap.
Blue cheese is temperature-sensitive and has a short shelf life, so it should be shipped using the fastest method possible, ideally arriving within one to two days.
Choose a sturdy, corrugated cardboard box that is big enough to accommodate the cheese, packing material, and ice gel packs. You can also add personal touches to the box, such as a fun colour or festive accents, especially if sending it as a gift.
Use frozen gel freezer packs or cold packs to keep the blue cheese cool. Place them in a freezer before use and arrange them around the cheese inside the box. You can also include dry ice in your shipment, but avoid using regular ice as it will melt and ruin the package.
USPS Priority Mail Express is the fastest service offered by the Postal Service, with overnight delivery to most destinations. However, it is also the most expensive option. Regular Priority Mail or First Class Package Service are more budget-friendly options but may take a couple of extra days.
