Patrick Oconnell
Swiss cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a relatively long shelf life of several weeks to months when unopened and stored properly in the refrigerator. However, once opened, it is important to follow certain storage guidelines to prevent the cheese from spoiling prematurely. Proper storage includes maintaining a refrigerator temperature below 40°F (4°C), minimizing moisture, using airtight containers, and practising good hygiene when handling the cheese. Even with these measures, Swiss cheese can still go bad, and it is important to know the signs of spoilage, such as mould, changes in texture, discolouration, and off or sour flavours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Cheese that's snug in its original wrap will outlast cheese that's left to breathe |
| Fridge Temperature | Keep your fridge chillin' below 40°F (4°C) |
| Moisture | Keep it dry to keep it fresh |
| Handling | The less you touch it, the better |
| Wrapping | Keep it in its original packaging or wrap it tight in plastic wrap or wax paper. Skip the aluminum foil—it can leave a weird taste |
| Airtight Container | Put the cheese in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag |
| Fridge Location | Store cheese in the cheese drawer or a stable spot in your fridge. Avoid the door where temperatures can swing wildly |
| Separate the Cheese | Different cheeses should stay apart to avoid mixing flavors and potential cross-contamination |
| Check Often | Keep an eye on your cheese. If you see mold, it's time to toss it |
| Thawing | Sliced Swiss deli cheese that has been defrosted can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator before using |
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What You'll Learn
Swiss cheese shelf life
The shelf life of Swiss cheese depends on a variety of factors, including storage conditions, quality, exposure to air, and temperature. Proper handling and storage are crucial to maximising its shelf life and maintaining freshness.
Unopened Swiss cheese can be stored in its original packaging in the refrigerator, below 40°F (4°C), and will last up to 6 months past its sell-by date. It's important to maintain a consistent temperature to preserve the cheese's quality. The ideal temperature range is between 35°F and 40°F (2°C to 4.4°C). Storing cheese in the door of the fridge is not recommended due to temperature fluctuations. Instead, use the cheese drawer or a stable spot in the main body of the refrigerator.
Once opened, Swiss cheese should be consumed within 3 to 4 weeks for optimal flavour and freshness. To extend its shelf life, wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap, wax paper, or parchment paper, then place it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to keep moisture out. Alternatively, you can freeze Swiss cheese to extend its shelf life by up to 6 months. However, freezing may affect the texture and flavour, and it is generally recommended for cooked dishes. To freeze, cut the cheese into small portions, wrap them tightly, and place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
When it comes to identifying spoiled Swiss cheese, there are a few key indicators. Firstly, if you notice any mould growth, discard the cheese as mould can penetrate deep into the product. Small spots of mould can be cut away, but if it's widespread, it's best to throw the cheese out. Additionally, if the cheese develops an odd odour, flavour, or appearance, or has a weird texture, it should be discarded.
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Refrigeration and temperature
Refrigeration is key to keeping Swiss cheese fresh and safe to eat. It should be stored in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F (4°C). Ideally, the temperature should be kept between 34°F and 38°F (1°C and 3°C), or 35°F and 40°F (2°C and 4°C) according to some sources. This range ensures the cheese remains cool without becoming so cold that it affects its texture or taste.
The middle shelves of a refrigerator are a good option for Swiss cheese storage as they maintain a steady temperature. The crisper drawer is also a suitable location due to its stable temperature and humidity control. It is best to avoid the fridge door, as this is the warmest spot due to constant opening and closing. It is also important to avoid placing Swiss cheese in the coldest areas of the fridge, such as near the freezer compartment.
To maintain the quality and safety of Swiss cheese, it should be kept at a consistent temperature. Fluctuations in temperature can impact the proliferation of bacteria and the development of mold. Swiss cheese should be shielded from exposure to air to prevent drying out and to protect against foodborne illness. It is recommended to wrap Swiss cheese tightly in plastic wrap, wax paper, parchment paper, aluminium foil, or specialised cheese paper. An airtight container can also be used to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezing is an option to extend the shelf life of Swiss cheese, although it may alter the texture and flavour. When ready to use frozen Swiss cheese, it should be moved to the refrigerator to thaw slowly. Overnight or several hours of thawing ensures the cheese regains its texture. It is important to avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
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Packaging and wrapping
Properly wrapping Swiss cheese is crucial to maintaining its flavour, texture, and safety. When storing Swiss cheese, it's important to use the correct type of wrapping to prevent spoilage and extend its shelf life.
The recommended way to wrap Swiss cheese is to first use wax paper, parchment paper, or specialised cheese paper. Then, wrap it loosely in plastic wrap or place it in a plastic bag. Finally, add a layer of aluminium foil, especially if you plan to freeze the cheese. This method helps to regulate moisture and prevent freezer burn. It's important to note that wrapping Swiss cheese tightly in plastic can alter its composition and flavour. Therefore, it's best to use a breathable type of paper first.
When wrapping Swiss cheese, ensure that it is tightly sealed to prevent air exposure, which can cause the cheese to dry out and pick up flavours from other foods. Proper wrapping also helps inhibit bacterial and mould growth, which can cause spoilage.
If you're freezing Swiss cheese, cut it into portions no larger than half a pound each before wrapping and placing in the freezer. Frozen Swiss cheese can last up to six months when properly wrapped.
In summary, proper wrapping and storage of Swiss cheese are essential to maintaining its quality and extending its shelf life. By following the recommended wrapping methods and storing it at the correct temperature, you can enjoy your Swiss cheese for longer while preserving its flavour and texture.
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Moisture and humidity
Firstly, it is important to understand that cheese should be stored in a cool environment, ideally in a refrigerator set between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C). At these temperatures, bacterial growth is slowed down, preserving the cheese. However, refrigerators tend to have low humidity, which can be problematic for cheese storage.
To combat the dry environment of a refrigerator, cheese should be wrapped properly. It is recommended to use wax or parchment paper, followed by a plastic bag or airtight container. This combination allows the cheese to breathe while maintaining moisture levels. Storing cheese in the vegetable crisper or cheese drawer can also help regulate temperature and humidity fluctuations.
However, excessive moisture can be detrimental to Swiss cheese. High humidity can cause the cheese to ripen too quickly and promote the growth of undesirable microbes, resulting in off-flavors. Additionally, excess moisture can affect the texture of the cheese and encourage the growth of unwanted molds, compromising food safety.
Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a balance in humidity levels. The ideal humidity range for cheese caves and aging rooms is typically between 75% and 95% relative humidity at temperatures ranging from 50 to 55 degrees. To monitor humidity levels, a digital hygrometer can be used, ensuring that cheese is stored within the optimal humidity range.
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Signs of spoilage
Swiss cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a relatively long shelf life. When stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last for several weeks to a few months past its 'best by' date. However, it is important to regularly check your Swiss cheese for any signs of spoilage to ensure it is safe to consume.
Mould
Visible mould on Swiss cheese indicates that it has gone bad and should be discarded. While some cheeses, like blue cheese, are made with safe-to-eat moulds, random mould on Swiss cheese is not safe for consumption. It is important to note that mould can grow deep into the cheese, so cutting off the mouldy part is not sufficient to make it safe.
Texture
Changes in the texture of Swiss cheese can be a sign of spoilage. If the cheese becomes overly dry, crumbly, or slimy, it should be discarded.
Discolouration
Significant changes in colour, such as yellowing or browning, can indicate that the Swiss cheese has spoiled.
Taste
If the Swiss cheese has an off or sour flavour, it has likely gone bad and should not be consumed. It is important to note that tasting potentially spoiled cheese should be a last resort after examining the other signs of spoilage, as consuming spoiled food can be harmful.
Smell
Swiss cheese that has gone bad may also have an unpleasant or nasty smell.
To prevent Swiss cheese from spoiling, it is important to store it properly. This includes keeping it refrigerated at a temperature between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C), wrapping it tightly in wax or parchment paper, and then placing it in an airtight container or plastic bag. Additionally, it is recommended to store cheese in the cheese drawer of the refrigerator to maintain the optimal humidity level.
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Frequently asked questions
Swiss cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a relatively long shelf life. It can last several weeks to several months in the refrigerator.
To extend the shelf life of Swiss cheese, wrap it tightly in wax or parchment paper and then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. Store it in the fridge at a temperature between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C).
Yes, freezing Swiss cheese is an effective way to extend its shelf life. Wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer.
Swiss cheese may exhibit changes in texture, becoming overly dry, crumbly, or slimy. There may also be significant discolouration, such as yellowing or browning. If you see any type of mould on Swiss cheese, it is not safe to consume.
If you accidentally consume Swiss cheese that has gone bad, it is important to stay calm. Foodborne illnesses can cause various symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps. Stay hydrated and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or become severe.
