Randy Chandler
Blue cheese is a beloved and divisive food, known for its strong smell and signature streaks of mould. But how can you tell if it's gone bad? The first thing to look out for is an ammonia-like smell, which indicates that the cheese is spoiled and should be thrown away. If the cheese smells sour, or weird in a non-blue cheese way, it's also time to say goodbye. You can also look at the colour of the creamy part of the cheese, which should be white, beige or yellow, and not pink, brown, green or blue. If you see fuzzy, grey-black mould spots, or glistening yellow areas, it's likely spoiled. Blue cheese can last for a few weeks in the fridge if stored properly, and it's best to use it within one to two weeks of opening.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Odor | Fresh blue cheese has a strong scent, but it changes as it starts to go bad. If it smells like ammonia, it is probably spoiled. |
| Color | If the creamy part of the cheese (not the moldy part) is turning pink, brown, green, or blue, the blue cheese has likely spoiled. |
| Texture | If the cheese goes soft and stuff is growing on it, it should be thrown out. Softness is a sign of low acidity, which means that it is less safe. |
| Taste | If the blue cheese still smells the same and hasn't changed color, taste it. If it's too strong to enjoy, throw it away. |
| Expiration Date | Check the expiration date on the packaging. Blue cheese will generally last three to four weeks if stored properly. |
| Mold | If unintended mold appears on the blue cheese, it's time to toss it out. Look out for fuzzy mold, darker in color, usually black or grey. |
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What You'll Learn
How to store blue cheese to prevent spoilage
Blue cheese is a delicate product that can be tricky to store. It is susceptible to oxidation and can quickly lose its surface moisture. To prevent spoilage, it is important to control the humidity and temperature of the storage environment. Here are some tips to help you store your blue cheese and keep it fresh for as long as possible:
Choose the Right Storage Container
Avoid using plastic wrap or containers for storing blue cheese, as they can negatively affect its taste and texture. Plastic can trap moisture, leading to the growth of unwanted bacteria and rapid degradation of the cheese. Instead, opt for specialised cheese paper, which is similar to parchment paper and allows the cheese to breathe. You can also use wax paper or foil to seal the cheese and prevent it from drying out. Place the wrapped cheese in a reusable container or a designated cheese drawer to further protect it from odours and flavour transfer.
Maintain Proper Humidity and Temperature
Blue cheese thrives in a high-humidity environment. Consider investing in a cheese grotto, which is designed to regulate humidity and provide a gentle flow of fresh air around the cheese. Alternatively, you can store blue cheese in the refrigerator, as colder temperatures prolong its freshness. Place it on the bottom shelf, which is usually the coldest part of the fridge. If you prefer to keep the cheese at room temperature, use a non-porous container like a Black Resin shelf to minimise the chances of spoilage.
Handle and Consume Cheese Properly
When handling blue cheese, ensure it is fully wrapped and sealed to prevent oxygen from accelerating the spoilage process. Consume the cheese within one to five days of opening, as blue cheese crumbles can go bad within a week. If you have excess cheese, consider freezing it in portions to extend its shelf life. However, note that freezing may alter the taste and texture slightly.
By following these storage guidelines, you can better preserve the quality and freshness of your blue cheese, minimising waste and maximising enjoyment.
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How to identify spoilage by smell
Blue cheese is known for its pungent, divisive odour, which can make it challenging to identify spoilage by smell alone. However, here are some guidelines to help you determine if your blue cheese has gone bad:
Firstly, it is important to establish a baseline for the scent of fresh blue cheese. When you purchase blue cheese, take a moment to smell it, noting its strong, sharp, and distinctive aroma. This way, you will be better equipped to identify any changes in its scent over time.
The key indicator of spoilage in blue cheese is an ammonia-like smell. Blue cheese naturally produces ammonia, but as it ages, the ammonia odour can become more pronounced. If the ammonia scent becomes overwhelming or pungent, it is likely a sign that your blue cheese has gone bad. Additionally, if the cheese starts to smell stale or sour, it is best to discard it.
Another factor to consider is the presence of other odours that deviate from the typical blue cheese aroma. If you detect unfamiliar or unusual smells that are not characteristic of blue cheese, it may be an indication of spoilage. These foreign odours could signify the growth of unwanted microorganisms or the breakdown of the cheese.
It is worth noting that the scent of blue cheese can be confusing, and it may be challenging to distinguish between a strong, pungent odour and spoilage. In such cases, it is advisable to rely on additional indicators, such as appearance and texture, to make a more informed decision.
In summary, while smell can be a useful indicator, it is not always definitive. Combining your sense of smell with other sensory observations, such as sight and taste, can help you make a more accurate determination of whether your blue cheese has spoiled. Remember, when in doubt, it is always better to be cautious and discard the cheese rather than risk consuming spoiled food.
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How to identify spoilage by colour
Blue cheese is known for its distinctive smell and appearance, but these can change as it spoils. The colour of the cheese is one of the best ways to identify spoilage.
Firstly, it is important to note the colour of the cheese when it is fresh. The creamy part of the cheese should be white, beige, or yellow. The blue-green veins of mould are what give blue cheese its distinctive taste and appearance.
If the creamy part of the cheese turns pink, brown, or green, it has likely spoiled. This discolouration indicates that other things are growing on the cheese, which can be toxic. The mould you want to see in blue cheese is very different from the mould that indicates spoilage. The spoilage mould is usually fuzzy and darker in colour, often black or grey. It may also be accompanied by slimy yellow or pinkish spots.
If the cheese is stored improperly, the mould may die and change colour, becoming unsafe to eat. Blue cheese should be wrapped in a breathable material, such as cheese paper, wax paper, or parchment paper, and then sealed in a layer of aluminium foil or beeswax wrap. This will prevent moisture loss and allow the cheese to breathe, as the mould in blue cheese needs oxygen.
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How to identify spoilage by texture
Blue cheese is known for its signature streaks of mold and strong aroma, so it can be challenging to tell when it has gone bad. However, it is essential to identify spoilage to avoid food poisoning or the accidental consumption of toxic mold. Here are some ways to identify spoilage in blue cheese by texture:
Firstly, the texture of the mold itself is a crucial indicator. While blue cheese should have blue-green veins of Penicillium mold, spoilage can be identified by the presence of fuzzy, grey-black, or dark mold spots. These spots may also appear as slimy or glistening yellow, pink, or brown areas, indicating that the cheese should be discarded.
Secondly, the texture of the cheese itself can provide clues about spoilage. If the cheese has become soft, it indicates low acidity, which means it is less safe to consume. This softness can be a sign that other things are starting to grow on the cheese, rendering it spoiled.
Additionally, the texture of blue cheese can change upon thawing if it has been frozen. Freezing blue cheese is an option for those who cannot consume it quickly, but it is important to note that the cheese's texture and flavor may be altered after thawing.
In summary, identifying spoilage in blue cheese by texture involves examining the mold's appearance, the cheese's softness, and any changes in texture after freezing and thawing. Remember to also consider other factors, such as smell, color, and taste, to make a comprehensive judgment about the cheese's freshness.
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What to do if you've eaten spoiled blue cheese
If you've eaten blue cheese that you suspect might be spoiled, the first thing to do is not panic. In most cases, eating a small amount of spoiled blue cheese won't make you sick. However, if you start to feel unwell, it's important to take some steps to look after yourself.
Firstly, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. This is important as you may experience vomiting or diarrhoea, which can lead to dehydration. Next, get some rest and monitor your symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it's a good idea to consult a doctor or healthcare professional. They may advise you to take over-the-counter medications to manage your symptoms, or they may recommend further treatment if they feel it's necessary.
To prevent any future issues with spoiled blue cheese, there are several steps you can take. Firstly, always check the expiration date on the packaging and try to consume the cheese within three to four weeks of opening. Additionally, make sure your blue cheese is fully wrapped and sealed when storing it in the refrigerator. You can use cheese paper or specific blue cheese wrap, which has a waxy paper layer and a foil outer layer. Finally, when in doubt, perform a smell, colour, and taste test. If the cheese has an ammonia-like smell, or if the creamy parts have turned pink, brown, or green, it's best to discard it.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to tell if your blue cheese has gone bad is to smell it. Fresh blue cheese has a strong scent, but it changes as it starts to spoil. If it has an ammonia-like smell, it is probably spoiled.
The creamy part of the cheese should be white, beige, or yellow. If you notice it turning pink, brown, or green, your blue cheese has likely spoiled.
Blue cheese already has blue or green mould in it, which is safe to eat and gives the cheese its distinctive taste.
Blue cheese should be wrapped in a breathable material like cheese paper, wax paper, parchment paper, or aluminium foil. This will prevent improper ventilation, which can cause the mould to die and change colours, making it unsafe to eat.
