Goat Cheese Storage: Long-Term Preservation Techniques

Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in appetizers, salads, cooking, and on cheese boards. To store goat cheese, it is important to wrap it correctly to avoid transferring odors and flavors, protect it from drying out, and prevent microbial contamination. The cheese can be wrapped in its original packaging, parchment paper, aluminum foil, or plastic wrap, and stored in the refrigerator, preferably in a cheese box. The vegetable drawer of the refrigerator is ideal as it provides a similar atmosphere to a cave, with a temperature between 8°C and 10°C. Well-aged cheeses can be stored in the middle of the refrigerator between 4°C and 6°C, while fresh cheese should be stored in the top of the refrigerator between 0°C and 4°C to stop ripening. Properly stored, fresh goat cheese will last about 1 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. Additionally, goat cheese can be frozen by wrapping it tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap and placing it in an airtight container, preferably made of glass. Frozen cheese may become crumbly and is best suited for cooked dishes.

Goat cheese storage temperature and humidity

Goat cheese is sensitive to temperature and humidity. The ideal temperature for storing goat cheese is between 8 °C and 10 °C, with humidity levels between 80% and 85%. These conditions are similar to those found in a cave, where goat cheese is typically matured.

To achieve these conditions at home, the vegetable drawer in a refrigerator is the best place to store goat cheese. This drawer usually maintains a temperature of around 8 °C to 10 °C, which is ideal for preserving the cheese's texture and aromas. Depending on your preference for goat cheese, you can also adjust the storage temperature to influence the ripening process. Well-aged cheeses can be stored in the middle of the refrigerator at 4 °C to 6 °C, while fresh cheese can be stored at the top of the refrigerator at 0 °C to 4 °C to halt the ripening process.

It is important to note that goat cheese should not be too cold, as this can negatively impact its flavour and texture. Additionally, proper wrapping is crucial to protect the cheese from drying out, prevent microbial contamination, and avoid the transfer of odours and flavours between different cheeses. Original packaging can be reused, or you can wrap the cheese in parchment paper, aluminium foil, or plastic wrap. For varieties with a rind, it is recommended to wrap them in wax paper and then in plastic before storing them in the refrigerator drawer.

When storing goat cheese in the refrigerator, it is essential to maintain proper humidity levels. Goat cheese prefers a relatively humid environment, and the vegetable drawer typically provides the necessary humidity. However, if the humidity drops too low, you can experiment with slightly lower temperatures to extend the shelf life. Additionally, some sources suggest that before the advent of refrigeration, goat milk cheeses were air-dried in wicker or lattice cages to control moisture levels and prevent certain types of mould.

How to wrap goat cheese

Wrapping your goat cheese correctly is essential to preserving its freshness and flavour. Goat cheese is sensitive to humidity and temperature, so it's important to wrap it properly to maintain its quality. Here are some detailed instructions on how to wrap goat cheese for storage:

Firstly, if you have the original packaging, you can reuse it to wrap the cheese. This is a convenient option if you're aiming to preserve the cheese's original flavour and texture. Simply seal the packaging tightly and store it in the refrigerator.

If you no longer have the original packaging, you can use parchment paper, wax paper, aluminium foil, or plastic wrap. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Cut the cheese into portions or slices of your desired size.
• Wrap each portion individually in wax paper or parchment paper. This creates a layer of breathability and helps regulate moisture.
• If using wax paper or parchment paper, cover the cheese with plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent drying out. This additional layer also protects the cheese from absorbing other odours in the refrigerator.
• Place the wrapped cheese in a sealed container, such as a Tupperware container or a glass or plastic container with a lid.
• Store the container in the refrigerator, preferably in the vegetable drawer or crisper, where the temperature and humidity are more suitable for cheese storage.

Remember, goat cheese is best enjoyed fresh, so it's recommended to consume it within a week of opening. Additionally, always use a clean knife when cutting the cheese to prevent contamination and the growth of unwanted mould.

Freezing goat cheese

Freezing is a great way to store goat cheese long-term. However, it's important to note that only dry and semi-hard goat cheeses can withstand freezing and thawing. Freezing fresh goat cheese and ripened goat cheese can alter their texture and flavour.

To freeze goat cheese, start by wrapping it properly. Wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Then, place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container, preferably made of glass, as plastic can absorb odours.

Once you're ready to use the frozen goat cheese, thaw it and use it within two months. It's important to note that cheese can only be frozen and thawed once. Frozen goat cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavour, so it's best suited for cooked dishes like sauces, soups, and casseroles.

If you're planning to use goat cheese within a few days, you can simply store it in the refrigerator. Place the cheese in the vegetable drawer, which has a temperature between 8°C and 10°C, providing a similar atmosphere to a cave, ideal for cheese storage.

How long does goat cheese last in the fridge?

Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in appetizers, salads, cooking, and on cheese boards. To ensure you get the most out of this delicious product, it's important to know how to store it correctly and be aware of its shelf life.

Goat cheese is best stored in the refrigerator, specifically in the vegetable drawer or vegetable crisper, as this area has a temperature that is quite similar to that of a cave, the ideal storage location. The refrigerator temperature should be maintained between 8°C and 10°C for the best results.

When storing goat cheese in the refrigerator, it is important to wrap it correctly. This will help to avoid transferring odors and flavors between different cheeses, protect them from drying out, and prevent microbial contamination. You can reuse the original packaging or wrap each cheese individually in parchment paper, aluminum foil, or plastic wrap. If you plan to use the cheese within a week, some sources suggest avoiding plastic wrap as it can cause unwanted mold. Instead, opt for wax paper, then plastic wrap, to create a layer of breathability.

The shelf life of goat cheese depends on various factors, including the aging process and water content. Well-aged cheeses can be stored in the middle of the refrigerator between 4°C and 6°C. To stop the ripening process of fresh cheese, store it in the top of the refrigerator between 0°C and 4°C. Fresh goat cheese will typically last about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator if stored correctly. However, some sources suggest that it can last up to 3 weeks if properly wrapped and stored.

If you need to store goat cheese for longer, freezing is an option. Dry goat cheeses and semi-hard cheeses can withstand freezing and thawing, while fresh goat cheeses and ripened goat cheeses may have their texture and flavor altered. Frozen cheese should be consumed within two months to ensure the best quality, and it is important to note that a cheese can only be frozen and thawed once.

How to tell if goat cheese has gone bad

Goat cheese typically lasts about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator, but it can be frozen for up to 6 months. However, it is important to know when your goat cheese has gone bad.

Goat cheese that has gone bad will usually develop an off smell and appearance. If there is any mold on the cheese, other than the normal white mold that can bloom on cut surfaces, it should be discarded. Bright yellow or pink mold is a sign that the cheese has gone bad. If the cheese tastes sour or has an overly goaty flavour, it should also be thrown out.

When storing goat cheese, it is important to wrap it correctly to avoid microbial contamination and to protect it from drying out. It is best to avoid plastic wrap, as this can cause the cheese to suffocate and can also promote the growth of unwanted mold. Instead, use wax paper or parchment paper, followed by aluminum foil or plastic wrap if desired. Store the wrapped cheese in a sealed container in the refrigerator, preferably in the vegetable drawer, which has a similar atmosphere to a cave—the ideal storage location for cheese.

Frequently asked questions