Cheese, a staple in many refrigerators, requires proper storage to prevent it from going bad. While some people might be okay with cutting off moldy parts, there’s a better way to ensure your cheese stays fresh and flavorful. Sarah Taylor, a food hygiene expert at High-Speed Training, has shared her expert advice on the best storage methods for different types of cheese.
Contrary to popular belief, cling film is not the optimal choice for all cheeses. Each cheese has unique characteristics and storage needs. Hard cheeses like parmesan have a low moisture content, making them less susceptible to bacteria. As a result, they are best wrapped in cling film to prevent them from drying out. Wrapping them in waxed cheese paper or baking parchment would allow air to penetrate, potentially drying out the cheese.
However, soft cheeses like brie have a higher moisture content and require a different approach. These cheeses need to breathe to prevent the accumulation of ammonia gases, which can alter their flavor. Tightly wrapping soft cheeses in cling film can cause them to sweat, leading to undesirable changes in taste. Instead, Sarah recommends wrapping them in waxed cheese paper, baking parchment, or reusable waxed cloth. To further control the environment, she suggests placing the wrapped cheese in an airtight container. Adding a piece of dampened kitchen towel to the container can help regulate the atmosphere inside.
Storing cheese correctly not only preserves its quality but also minimizes unpleasant smells from spreading throughout the fridge. Sarah emphasizes the importance of storing cheese in a consistent environment. Therefore, she suggests placing it at the back of the fridge, where temperature and humidity are more regulated. It’s best to avoid storing cheese in the fridge door, as the constant temperature fluctuations from opening and closing the door can negatively impact its freshness.
