Frederic Melton
There are many ways to store cheese, and no single way is necessarily correct. However, cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of around 35 °F/4 °C. The drawers in your refrigerator have the most consistent temperature and humidity, so the cheese won’t get too cold or too dry. The best drawer is the one closest to the bottom of the fridge.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ideal temperature | Between 35 and 45 °F (2 and 7 °C) |
| Location in the refrigerator | Fridge drawer, preferably the one closest to the bottom of the fridge |
| Wrapping | Paper, wax paper, parchment paper, or cheese paper; avoid plastic wrap |
| Container | Airtight container; avoid zip-top bags |
| Other | Store in small quantities; label with type and date of purchase |
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What You'll Learn
- Store mixed cheese in a drawer at the bottom of the fridge
- Use parchment paper, wax paper, or cheese paper to wrap the cheese
- Avoid plastic wrap, which can affect the cheese's flavour
- Soft cheeses should be kept in their original containers
- The ideal refrigerator temperature for cheese is between 35°F and 45°F
Store mixed cheese in a drawer at the bottom of the fridge
Storing cheese in a drawer at the bottom of the fridge is a great way to keep it fresh. The drawers in a refrigerator have the most consistent temperature and humidity, so the cheese won't get too cold or dry. It is best to keep the refrigerator temperature between 35 and 45 °F (2 and 7 °C) for cheese storage.
When storing cheese, it is important to first remove it from its original packaging. Then, wrap the cheese in wax paper, parchment paper, or cheese paper, and secure it with tape. You can also use aluminium foil, especially for soft cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, and chèvre, which can spoil quickly if not sealed in their original containers. It is important to note that plastic wrap is not ideal for storing cheese, as it can cause the cheese to take on the flavour of the plastic and may result in a build-up of moisture, leading to mould.
To further extend the shelf life of the cheese, you can rub the cut faces of the cheese with a light coat of olive, canola, or another vegetable oil before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. This will create a barrier between the cheese and the air, preventing mould from forming directly on the cheese.
Additionally, it is recommended to buy cheese in smaller quantities to ensure freshness and reduce waste. Cheese stored in the refrigerator should be consumed within two weeks.
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Use parchment paper, wax paper, or cheese paper to wrap the cheese
Parchment paper, wax paper, or cheese paper are all great options for wrapping cheese. They offer good breathability while still providing a moisture barrier, which is crucial for maintaining the quality, flavour, and freshness of the cheese. This is because cheese needs to breathe while maintaining proper humidity. If you use plastic wrap, moisture will form and mould will grow.
To wrap the cheese, start by removing it from its original packaging. Then, cut the wrapping material so that it is large enough to comfortably wrap the entire piece of cheese, with some extra to fold over. You can use tape to secure the paper. Label the wrapped cheese with the type of cheese and the date of purchase, so you know when it expires.
Some alternatives to traditional cheese wrapping paper include beeswax wraps, which are reusable and environmentally friendly. You can also use a paper towel, but be sure to change it every time you use the cheese. Another option is to use greaseproof paper or baking paper, especially if you don't have the skill for tight folds. Then, you can use an elastic band around the outside to secure it.
Once your cheese is wrapped, store it in a designated cheese drawer or container in the refrigerator. The drawers in your refrigerator have the most consistent temperature and humidity, so the cheese won't get too cold or dry. The best drawer is the one closest to the bottom of the fridge. Ideally, your refrigerator temperature should be set between 35 and 45 °F (2 and 7 °C) for cheese-keeping.
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Avoid plastic wrap, which can affect the cheese's flavour
Plastic wrap is commonly used to store cheese, but it is not the best option. Cheese is a living organism, and when wrapped in plastic, it can absorb the plasticizers used to treat the plastic. Plastic wrap also restricts airflow, which can cause the cheese to dry out.
Cheese stored in plastic wrap will likely need to be trimmed before serving, as the edges that have touched the plastic may be affected in terms of flavour. It is recommended to use paper to wrap cheese instead of plastic. Parchment paper, wax paper, or cheese paper are all suitable options. The paper should be wrapped around the cheese with all faces of the cheese making contact with the paper. This will help to maintain humidity and protect the cheese from drying out.
If using paper, it is best to store the wrapped cheese in a drawer within the fridge, in a corner where the fan doesn't reach, or in a container with the lid slightly open to allow for airflow. The refrigerator will help keep the cheese from getting too warm, while the paper and airflow will ensure it maintains its natural moisture and flavour.
For softer, creamier cheeses like goat cheese or fresh mozzarella, it is recommended to use a resealable container instead of plastic wrap. This will help to maintain moisture and freshness.
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Soft cheeses should be kept in their original containers
Soft cheeses, such as goat cheese, Camembert, and Brie, have a high moisture content. To keep them fresh, it is best to store them in their original packaging or a resealable plastic container. Soft cheeses should be kept in their original containers, as they are designed to maintain the quality and freshness of the cheese. These containers are often made from high-quality plastic (PP) materials that are BPA-free and ensure the health and safety of the cheese. They are equipped with heat-sealable lids and tamper-evident features, providing secure closure and protection against contamination.
By keeping the cheese in its original container, you benefit from the manufacturer's expertise in preserving the product's freshness. These containers are specifically designed to maintain the optimal humidity and temperature levels required for soft cheeses. They also provide a barrier against moisture, oxygen, and contaminants, preventing spoilage and extending the cheese's shelf life.
Additionally, original containers often feature labels with important information about the cheese, such as the type, ingredients, and expiration date. This information is valuable for inventory management and ensures that you are consuming the cheese within its recommended shelf life. It also helps you make informed decisions about cheese storage, as you can easily identify the cheese and its specific storage requirements.
Furthermore, using the original container simplifies the storage process. You don't need to worry about finding suitable alternative storage options or transferring the cheese to another container. This convenience is especially beneficial when storing multiple types of cheese with varying storage needs. It also reduces the risk of cross-contamination, as the cheese remains in its designated packaging.
However, it's important to note that even when stored in their original containers, soft cheeses have a shorter shelf life compared to harder cheeses. Therefore, it is advisable to monitor the cheese regularly for any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, unusual texture, or the presence of mold that is not part of the manufacturing process. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your soft cheeses remain fresh and safe for consumption while taking advantage of the convenience and protection offered by their original containers.
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The ideal refrigerator temperature for cheese is between 35°F and 45°F
To store cheese in the refrigerator, wrap it in wax paper, cheese paper, parchment paper, or a combination of paper and plastic wrap. Soft cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella should be kept in a resealable container. For optimal flavour, bring the cheese to room temperature before serving.
If you're storing cheese in the refrigerator, the best place to keep it is in a drawer. The drawers in a refrigerator have the most consistent temperature and humidity, so the cheese won't dry out. The bottom drawer is the best option, as it is usually the coolest.
If you're storing cheese at room temperature, it's important to keep the storage area rodent-free. You can use a meat safe or a Cheese Grotto to store cheese at room temperature.
Additionally, the humidity level in your refrigerator or storage area can impact the freshness of your cheese. Cheese prefers a humidity level of 55% to 65%. If your refrigerator doesn't have a humidity adjustment, you can use parchment paper to prevent the cheese from drying out.
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Frequently asked questions
The best place to store cheese in a refrigerator is in the drawers at the bottom of the fridge, ideally in the vegetable crisper. The drawers have the most consistent temperature and humidity, so the cheese won't dry out or get too cold.
Cheese should be wrapped in wax paper, cheese paper, or parchment paper. Plastic wrap is not ideal as cheese is a living organism and needs to breathe. However, a layer of plastic wrap can be added on top of the paper to protect the cheese from the flavours of the fridge.
The length of time cheese can be stored differs by variety. In general, harder cheeses last longer than softer cheeses. Hard, aged cheeses can last three to four weeks, while soft or semi-soft cheeses should be used within a week. Fresh cheeses like mozzarella or feta can last between 7 to 10 days.
If there is mould on your cheese, throw it away. Mould on soft cheese is a sign it is not safe to eat. However, some cheeses are created with food-safe mould spores, like Blue Cheese, and these are safe to eat.
