Cheese Storage: Which Cheeses Can Stay Unrefrigerated?

While soft cheeses like goat cheese, cottage cheese, and cream cheese need to be refrigerated, harder, drier cheeses can be stored at room temperature. Hard cheeses like parmesan, pecorino romano, and aged gouda have a very low water content, which means they are less likely to spoil when left out. In fact, parmesan was originally developed for worldwide shipping and has even been brought to space by astronauts.

Parmigiano Reggiano

When stored in the refrigerator, Parmigiano Reggiano should be kept in glass or plastic containers, or wrapped in food-grade plastic film. It can be stored for a long time, but it is necessary to check regularly that the conditions have not changed. It should never be frozen.

A younger Parmigiano Reggiano (13-15 months) can be stored for up to 15 days, while a classic aged Parmigiano Reggiano (24 months or more) can be stored for about a month. If mould develops, it can be removed with a knife.

Pecorino Romano

This cheese is versatile in the kitchen and is commonly used in pasta dishes like Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara, adding depth and saltiness. It can also be added to salads for extra flavour, incorporated into bread recipes like focaccia, or used as a flavour enhancer in soups and sauces.

Storage

Refrigeration is the best method for long-term storage. In the refrigerator, unopened Pecorino Romano can last for three to four months. Once opened, it should be consumed within two to six weeks for optimal quality and flavour. Wrap the cheese tightly in wax paper, parchment paper, or plastic wrap, and place it in an airtight container to protect it from moisture and air exposure. Store it in the refrigerator's vegetable crisper or cheese drawer, which maintain a more consistent temperature and humidity level.

For longer-term storage, freezing is an option, though it may affect the cheese's texture. Cut the cheese into small portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen Pecorino Romano can last up to six months.

Aged cheddars

Cheddar is a dense and creamy English cheese that doesn't ooze, although some cheddars will become soft and oily if left out of the fridge for too long. Cheddar has been a staple food for centuries, and its longevity out of refrigeration is well-known.

Montgomery's Cheddar, for example, is aged for at least a year and has a sturdy natural rind wrapped in linen for extra protection, making it ideal for travel. Bravo Farms Bandage Wrapped Cheddar is another option for a wrapped cheese that travels well.

If you are storing an aged cheddar at home, it is recommended to keep it wrapped in paper or cloth to keep it clean and stop it from drying out.

Processed cheese

If you are looking to save space in your refrigerator or are interested in trying a new variety of cheese, processed cheese can be a good option to store in your pantry until opened. However, always check the packaging for specific storage instructions provided by the manufacturer.

While storing processed cheese at room temperature is safe, it is worth mentioning that refrigeration can help extend the shelf life of these products. Therefore, if you plan to keep them out of the fridge, it is best to use them sooner rather than later.

Wax-covered cheese

While wax-covered cheese can be stored without refrigeration, it is still recommended to keep it as cool as possible. If travelling with wax-covered cheese, it is best to keep it in an insulated bag or stored on ice.

Some examples of wax-covered cheese include Babybel, Laughing Cow, and Gouda. These cheeses can be stored without refrigeration for several months to a year, depending on the conditions. However, it is important to ensure that the wax seal remains intact, as breaking the seal can allow air and moisture to enter and cause mould.

Frequently asked questions