Cheese doesn’t always get a chance to sit around long enough to go bad, but it can happen. Maximising the longevity of your cheese is an important issue for cheese lovers, but it turns out many some aren’t storing it correctly, and it’s leading to premature spoilage.
According to the waste experts at NRC Business Waste, a key lifesaver for your cheese is the ditching of clingfilm. It’s a no-go, especially for water-rich varieties like Havarti, mozzarella, and Gouda, reports the Express.
They warn that using plastics such as clingfilm to wrap your cheese can cause issues. They said: “Cheese, especially softer varieties like Havarti, mozzarella, and Gouda, contain high water content, which makes them more prone to spoilage.
“Wrapping these cheeses in plastic or cling film can trap moisture, leading to faster mould growth. The plastic creates a breeding ground for bacteria and mould – and not the tasty kind.”
When it comes to block cheeses, the specialists steer us away from clingfilm and towards parchment paper. The experts said: “Wrap the cheese in parchment, secure it with tape, and write the date of opening on it.”
Block wonders like cheddar or parmesan benefit from the parchment approach allowing them to breathe while preventing unwanted dampness. The experts added: “This method not only helps reduce mould but also maintains the cheese’s texture.”
Finally, for those who adore soft cheeses think brie, camembert, and ricotta remember, they’re particularly susceptible to spoiling swiftly. To extend their shelf life, cheese lovers are urged to ditch any foil or film once the packaging is opened, because this is where clingfilm is actually useful as long as it is tightly wrapped.
The experts said: “This helps ensure an airtight seal, which is important for preserving soft cheeses.”
Freezing cheese
Don’t let excess cheese go to waste it can be frozen to preserve it further. Grating the cheese beforehand is advised since this form freezes more effectively and keeps its texture after being thawed.
Keep the grated cheese in a zip-lock bag for an effective airtight seal, making sure it’s handy for cooking or for adding a cheesy touch to your favourite meals later on.