Frederic Melton
Travelling with cheese can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to ensuring that it doesn't spoil. The good news is that hard cheeses, such as Parmesan, Gruyere, and Emmentaler, are quite resilient and can be transported without refrigeration for short periods. Vacuum sealing or shrink wrapping is an effective way to preserve cheese during travel, and most cheese shops are equipped to provide this service. If you're travelling with softer cheeses, it's best to buy them when they're still firm and young, allowing them to ripen once you reach your destination. Proper packaging is essential, and using Tupperware or aluminium foil can help contain the smell and maintain freshness. Additionally, consider the climate of your destination, as warm temperatures may cause cheese to sweat and spoil more quickly. By choosing the right types of cheese and employing suitable storage methods, you can confidently travel with cheese and enjoy your favourite varieties wherever your journeys take you.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of cheese | Hard cheeses such as Parmesan, Gruyere, and Appenzeller are less perishable and can be kept unrefrigerated for longer. Soft cheeses are more prone to spoilage and may suffer from changes in texture and smell. |
| Packaging | Vacuum-sealed or shrink-wrapped cheese is less likely to spoil. Tin foil or wax paper can also be used for additional protection. Avoid plastic bags as they promote mould growth. |
| Temperature | Keep cheese in cool conditions. Refrigerate when possible and avoid hot environments. |
| Transportation | Transport cheese in checked luggage or a carry-on bag. A "valise" or cheese suitcase can also be used to keep cheese safe during travel. |
| Duration | The longer the travel duration, the higher the risk of spoilage. Consider the duration and potential delays when planning to travel with cheese. |
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What You'll Learn
- Vacuum-sealed or shrink-wrapped cheese is less likely to spoil
- Hard cheeses are less perishable and can survive without refrigeration
- Soft cheeses are more prone to spoiling and should be packed in Tupperware
- Tin foil can offer protection when travelling with cheese
- Cheese should be stored in the hold, not in carry-on luggage
Vacuum-sealed or shrink-wrapped cheese is less likely to spoil
Hard cheeses, such as Parmesan, are less perishable and can be kept out of refrigeration for up to a day. They have lower moisture content, which makes them less susceptible to bacterial growth. On the other hand, soft cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, and cottage cheese have a higher moisture content, creating more opportunities for bacteria to grow and making them more perishable. These cheeses should be stored in their natural liquid in a plastic container.
When travelling with cheese, it is recommended to use a combination of paper and plastic wrap. First, wrap the cheese in paper, then loosely in plastic wrap. This prevents the cheese from drying out while still allowing it to breathe. Tin foil can also be used as a protective layer around the existing wrapping to provide a buffer during travel.
For longer trips, it is best to avoid semi-soft and washed-rind cheeses as they can begin to leach butterfat and become stinkier, respectively. Harder cheeses, such as Gruyere and Parmigiano-Reggiano, are better options for travel as they are more resilient due to their low moisture content.
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Hard cheeses are less perishable and can survive without refrigeration
Hard cheeses, such as Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda, are less perishable and can survive without refrigeration. This is because they have a lower moisture content, which makes them less susceptible to bacterial growth. In fact, the U.S. Department of Health states that hard, aged cheeses like Cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan can last three to four weeks after opening when stored properly.
Hard cheeses can be left out for extended periods without becoming unsafe, but the quality and taste may change. The proper storage of cheese has a significant impact on its shelf life. For example, wrapping cheese tightly in plastic wrap or a plastic bag can reduce its quality and flavour. Instead, hard cheeses should be stored in parchment paper, cheesecloth, butcher paper, cheese storage bags, or beeswax wrap in the refrigerator.
When travelling with hard cheese, it is best to vacuum seal the cheese, as this will preserve it better. It can then be placed in checked baggage, as the hold is cool enough to store hard and semi-hard cheese. Tin foil can also be used to provide a buffer during a bumpy ride, but it should not be used to directly wrap the cheese.
Hard cheeses are a great option for travel as they are less likely to spoil. However, it is important to regularly check hard cheeses for signs of spoilage, such as a bad smell, a slimy surface, dark spots, dryness, cracks, or mould. If any of these signs are present, the cheese should be disposed of.
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Soft cheeses are more prone to spoiling and should be packed in Tupperware
Soft cheeses, such as Brie, Camembert, mozzarella, cottage cheese, and cream cheese, have a higher moisture content and are not aged, making them more perishable and susceptible to spoilage. Harder cheeses, on the other hand, like Cheddar, Parmesan, or Gouda, have a lower moisture content, making them less prone to bacterial growth. Therefore, soft cheeses are more prone to spoilage and should be handled with care when travelling.
When packing soft cheeses for travel, it is recommended to use Tupperware or a similar airtight container. This helps to regulate the amount of air that comes into contact with the cheese, slowing down the growth of bacteria. Before placing the cheese in Tupperware, it is advisable to wrap it loosely in paper, following the advice of experts such as Ken Monteleone, owner of Fromagination Cheese Shop. This ensures the cheese can breathe while also being protected. Tin foil can also be used as an additional layer of protection, providing a nice buffer during travel.
It is important to note that soft cheeses should not be left unrefrigerated for extended periods. The U.S. Department of Health recommends that perishable foods, including soft cheeses, should not be left out of the fridge for more than two hours. After this time, soft cheeses should be inspected closely for signs of spoilage, such as a slimy texture, yellowing, mould, sourness, or an ammonia scent. If any of these signs are present, the cheese should be discarded immediately.
To further extend the lifespan of soft cheese during travel, consider using a chilled cooler bag or placing the Tupperware in a chilled platter or bowl of ice. This will help maintain a cooler temperature, reducing the risk of spoilage. Additionally, when travelling with multiple cheeses, keep soft cheeses separate from harder varieties and blue cheeses to prevent foreign mould growth.
While soft cheeses may require more careful handling, they can still be successfully transported without spoilage. By following the recommended storage methods and maintaining proper temperatures, you can confidently include soft cheeses in your travel plans without worry.
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Tin foil can offer protection when travelling with cheese
Travelling with cheese can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to preserving its quality and taste. Tin foil, also known as aluminium foil, can be a useful tool to protect your cheese during travel.
Firstly, it is important to note that the type of cheese you are travelling with will determine the effectiveness of using tin foil as a protective measure. Fresher cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, and mozzarella tend to leach moisture, becoming watery and whey-y. These cheeses should be kept in durable containers and wrapped in plastic before considering additional protection with tin foil. Blue cheese is another variety that is commonly wrapped in tin foil to maintain its quality.
For other types of cheese, tin foil can be used around the existing wrapping to provide a protective buffer. This is especially useful during bumpy rides or when travelling with cheese in your luggage, helping to avoid damage and maintain the shape of the cheese. Individual-format cheeses like Camembert, St. Marcellin, and Petit Freres, which come in wooden boxes or porcelain ramekins, are recommended for travel as they hold their shape better.
When travelling with soft cheeses, additional care is required as they are more prone to spoilage. Soft cheeses that spread like butter or have bloomy rinds cannot be sealed, as it will affect their texture and quality. It is recommended to buy these cheeses when they are younger and still firm, allowing them to ripen in your refrigerator before travelling.
In summary, tin foil can indeed offer protection when travelling with cheese, but it is essential to consider the type of cheese and its specific needs. Combining tin foil with appropriate wrapping, durable containers, and temperature control will help ensure your cheese remains in optimal condition during your travels.
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Cheese should be stored in the hold, not in carry-on luggage
When travelling with cheese, it is generally recommended to store it in checked luggage or the plane's hold, rather than in carry-on luggage. This is because the temperature in the hold is cooler than in the overhead bins, which can help to keep the cheese fresh and prolong its lifespan.
Hard and semi-hard cheeses are more durable and can survive at room temperature for a few hours, so they are a better option for travel than soft cheeses, which are more prone to spoilage and require special care. If you are travelling with soft cheese, it is best to consume it within a few days. Hard cheeses can last for several weeks, especially if they are vacuum-sealed or properly packed. Vacuum sealing or shrink-wrapping cheese can help to maintain freshness and prevent melting, especially in warmer environments.
When packing cheese in your luggage, it is important to consider the duration of the journey and the potential for delays. If you are travelling with a large quantity of cheese, it is also a good idea to declare it to customs to avoid any issues. It is also worth noting that spreads and dips, or creamy cheeses, are only allowed in checked luggage.
To keep cheese in the best condition during transport, you may want to invest in a specialised cheese suitcase or valise. These bags will keep your cheese safe and sound, and some even have extra pockets for knives, boards, and other accessories.
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Frequently asked questions
Harder cheeses with low moisture levels are less perishable and can be kept out of refrigeration for longer. Examples include Gruyere, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and aged Goudas. Soft cheeses are more prone to spoilage and should be purchased when they are still firm so they can ripen at home.
Vacuum sealing or shrink wrapping is the best way to preserve cheese during travel. If vacuum sealing is not an option, wrap the cheese in paper and then put it into a "breathing" cotton bag. Tin foil can also be used for extra protection. It is also important to consider the climate of your destination, as heat and humidity will cause cheese to spoil faster.
Cheese can typically survive an 8-hour journey without refrigeration, especially if the environment is cool. Hard cheeses can be kept out of refrigeration for up to a day or even longer.
Consider purchasing a cheese valise or porta, which are designed to keep cheese safe and sound during travel. If travelling by plane, it is recommended to put cheese in checked baggage rather than carry-on, as the hold is cooler. Always declare your cheese at customs to avoid fines or penalties.
