Bushra Griffith
Cheddar cheese is a staple in many households, but how do you store it correctly? Cheese is a living food that needs to breathe, so it should not be stored in a tightly wrapped package. Instead, it should be wrapped in paper and then plastic wrap or stored in a plastic container with a lid. The ideal temperature for storing cheese is between 40 and 50° F, so the drawers in your refrigerator are the best place to keep it.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage | Reusable containers, cheese paper, wax paper, parchment paper, plastic wrap |
| Temperature | 35º to 45º F |
| Duration | 7 to 10 days |
| Other Tips | Avoid plastic wrap for long-term storage, label the cheese, store in a dark, cool, and humid place |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar cheese should be stored in the refrigerator
When storing cheddar in the refrigerator, it's important to use the right type of wrapping. Plastic wrap is fine for commodity cheddar cheese, which is typically sold in large, vacuum-sealed blocks. However, for most varieties of cheese, plastic wrap is not ideal because it doesn't allow the cheese to breathe. This means that gases like ammonia can build up, creating unpleasant flavours and aromas. Plastic wrap can also trap moisture, promoting the growth of undesirable bacteria. Instead of plastic wrap, it's recommended to use reusable containers, parchment paper, or specialty cheese paper, which is designed to let the cheese breathe while still providing protection from the drying air of the fridge.
If you're storing a block of cheddar, it's important to wrap it properly. First, remove the cheese from its original plastic packaging, as this can give the cheese a plastic flavour. Then, tear off a sheet of parchment or cheese paper and lay it flat. Place the block of cheese in the centre and fold the paper around it, creasing the folds so that the paper lies flat against the cheese. Make sure the cheese is completely covered, then loosely wrap the paper-covered cheese in plastic wrap for additional protection.
How long your cheddar will last depends on how long it's been aged. Cheddar that has been aged for two or more years can last for months, while younger cheddars will typically last a few weeks. To extend the lifespan of your cheddar, it's important to store it properly and keep it refrigerated.
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Plastic wrap is not ideal for storing cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese is a bacteria-ripened semi-hard cheese with a low moisture content. It is important to understand the moisture content and ripening process of a cheese to know how best to store it and delay spoilage.
Secondly, plastic wrap can expose you to harmful chemicals. Many hazardous chemical plasticizers are “lipophilic,” which means they are readily absorbed by substances that are high in fat, such as cheese. Chemicals like benzophenone, which is linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and organ system toxicity, have been observed to migrate into cheese at a range of temperatures.
Thirdly, plastic wrap does not allow for adequate airflow. Cheese needs to be stored in a dark, cool, and humid space, and plastic wrap does not provide these conditions. Instead, cheese should be wrapped in paper, wax paper, parchment paper, or foil, which allows for some airflow while still protecting the cheese from the flavours of the fridge.
Finally, plastic wrap is not reusable, and therefore not environmentally friendly. Reusable containers are a better option for storing cheese, as they can be washed and used again, reducing waste.
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Reusable containers are the best way to store cheddar cheese
Storing cheddar cheese in a reusable container is ideal because it allows the cheese to breathe. Plastic wrap is not a good option for storing cheese because it traps moisture, promoting the growth of undesirable bacteria and creating off-flavours. It also lets light in, which can oxidize the cheese and create off-flavours on its outer surface.
When storing cheddar cheese, it's important to keep it in a cool, dark, and humid place, like the produce storage container of your fridge. The cheese should be wrapped in paper, such as wax paper or parchment paper, and then placed in a reusable container. This will help to keep it fresh and delicious for longer.
Cheddar cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks. If you're using a cheese grotto, it can be stored at room temperature for 7 to 10 days. However, it's important to note that cheddar cheese should be brought up to room temperature before eating, to enhance its flavour and texture.
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Cheddar cheese should be stored in a dark, cool, and humid place
Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard variety of cheese, which means it has a low moisture content and a longer shelf life compared to softer cheeses. However, to ensure that your cheddar stays fresh and flavourful for as long as possible, it is important to store it properly.
It is important to note that cheddar cheese should not be stored in direct light, as this can cause oxidation and affect the flavour of the cheese. When storing cheddar cheese in the refrigerator, keep it in the vegetable crisper or cheese drawer to protect it from the drying air of the fridge. Additionally, avoid storing cheddar cheese in tightly sealed plastic packaging, as this can trap moisture and promote the growth of undesirable bacteria. Plastic wrap can also let in light, which can affect the flavour of the cheese.
Instead, cheddar cheese should be wrapped in paper, such as wax paper, parchment paper, or specialty cheese paper, and then loosely covered in plastic wrap for additional protection. This allows the cheese to breathe and prevents it from drying out. Make sure to change the paper and plastic wrap after each use to maintain freshness.
By following these storage guidelines, you can ensure that your cheddar cheese remains in optimal condition, retaining its lively flavours and supple textures for a longer period of time.
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Cheddar cheese should be consumed within a few weeks
Cheddar cheese is a bacteria-ripened, semi-hard cheese with a relatively low moisture content. This means that it can be stored for a few weeks, but it is best to consume it within a few weeks of opening for the best flavour. Cheddar can be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
If you choose to store your cheddar in the refrigerator, it is important to note that it should not be stored in the plastic wrap that it is often sold in. Plastic wrap suffocates the cheese, preventing it from breathing, and can give it an unpleasant plastic flavour. Instead, transfer the cheese to a reusable container or wrap it in parchment or wax paper, then loosely wrap it in plastic wrap to protect it from the drying air of the fridge and prevent it from absorbing other flavours.
If you choose to store your cheddar at room temperature, a cheese dome can help to preserve the cheese by creating its own temperature and humidity, essentially preserving the cheese in its own atmosphere. Another option is to use a product like the Cheese Grotto, which can keep your cheese at the perfect temperature and can even be used to age your own cheese.
Regardless of how you store your cheddar, it is important to note that it is a living food that needs to breathe. This means that it should not be stored in a tightly wrapped package, as this will prevent moisture from escaping and can promote the growth of undesirable bacteria. Instead, choose a storage option that allows air circulation, such as a reusable container or a two-ply specialty cheese paper.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheddar is a semi-hard cheese and should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in wax or parchment paper, then covered in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. It can last up to 3-4 weeks in the fridge if stored correctly.
Yes, you can. Cheddar cheese can be frozen, especially if it will be used for cooking. However, freezing may affect the texture of the cheese, making it grainy and sandy.
If you notice mould on your cheddar cheese, cut off at least 1 inch around and below the mouldy spot. Make sure to keep the knife out of the mould. The remaining cheese should be safe to eat.
