How to store cheese in fridge?

How to Store Cheese in the Fridge: A Comprehensive Guide

Storing cheese in the fridge is a crucial step in preserving its quality, texture, and flavor. With the vast array of cheeses available, it’s essential to understand the best practices for storing each type. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to store cheese in the fridge, covering the basics, types of cheese, and specific storage tips.

The Basics of Storing Cheese

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the fundamental principles of storing cheese:

• Temperature: Cheese should be stored at a consistent refrigerator temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
• Humidity: Cheese is sensitive to humidity, and a refrigerator with a humid environment can cause mold growth.
• Airflow: Good airflow is crucial for preventing the growth of mold and bacteria.

Types of Cheese and Storage Considerations

Cheese comes in various forms, each with its unique storage requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of cheese and their storage considerations:

• Soft Cheeses (<60% moisture content)

  • Examples: Brie, Camembert, Feta, Goat Cheese
  • Storage Tips:

    • Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out
    • Store in the refrigerator’s coldest compartment (usually the bottom shelf)
    • Consume within 2-3 weeks

• Semi-Soft Cheeses (60-70% moisture content)

  • Examples: Gouda, Edam, Havarti
  • Storage Tips:

    • Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out
    • Store in the refrigerator’s middle or upper shelves
    • Consume within 2-4 weeks

• Hard Cheeses (<40% moisture content)

  • Examples: Cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan
  • Storage Tips:

    • Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out
    • Store in the refrigerator’s middle or upper shelves
    • Consume within 4-6 months

• Blue Cheeses (strongly pungent and moldy)

  • Examples: Roquefort, Stilton
  • Storage Tips:

    • Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out
    • Store in the refrigerator’s coldest compartment (usually the bottom shelf)
    • Consume within 2-3 weeks

Additional Storage Tips

While the above guidelines provide a solid foundation for storing cheese, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t wash the cheese: Washing cheese can cause it to absorb moisture, leading to mold growth and an unpleasant taste.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause cheese to become discolored, develop off-flavors, and become rancid.
• Don’t stack cheese: Stacking cheese can cause moisture to accumulate, leading to mold growth and an unpleasant taste.
• Label and date the cheese: Keep track of the cheese’s age and type to ensure you consume it before it goes bad.

Common Cheese Storage Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when storing cheese:

• Storing cheese at room temperature: This can cause cheese to spoil quickly, develop off-flavors, and become rancid.
• Not wrapping the cheese: Leaving cheese unwrapped can cause it to dry out, develop mold, and become rancid.
• Not checking the cheese regularly: Regularly checking the cheese for signs of spoilage can help prevent foodborne illness.

Conclusion

Storing cheese in the fridge requires attention to detail, patience, and a understanding of the unique characteristics of each type of cheese. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be able to keep your cheese fresh, flavorful, and safe to consume. Remember to store cheese at the right temperature, humidity, and airflow, and to avoid common mistakes that can lead to spoilage.

Table: Cheese Storage Guidelines

Additional Resources

For more information on storing cheese, check out the following resources:

• The American Cheese Society’s Cheese Storage Guide
• The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service’s (FSIS) Cheese Storage Tips
• The International Association of Culinary Professionals’ Cheese Storage and Handling Guide