Keeping it Fresh: 10 Tips to Prevent Mold on Cheese
January 13, 2024
source: Flickr
Cheese lovers, rejoice! There’s nothing quite like the savory delight of a perfectly aged cheddar or the creamy texture of a brie. However, when that unexpected fuzziness appears on your favorite cheese, it’s a whole different story. But we’ve got you covered with these 10 tips to prevent mold from invading your cheese haven.
Proper Storage:
Let’s start with the basics. Storing your cheese correctly is key to keeping mold at bay. Invest in cheese paper or wax paper, as they allow the cheese to breathe while maintaining optimal moisture levels. Avoid plastic wrap – it can trap moisture and create a mold-friendly environment.
Temperature Matters:
Cheese is a delicate soul and is particularly sensitive to temperature changes. Keep your cheese stored in the refrigerator, ideally in the vegetable or cheese drawer. The temperature should be between 35 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit (1.7 to 7.2 degrees Celsius) to slow down the mold growth without freezing your cheese.
Humidity Control:
Humidity is another sneaky factor that can contribute to mold development. Cheese thrives in a humid environment, so it’s essential to maintain humidity levels between 80-90%. If your fridge has a humidity control setting, make sure to adjust it accordingly.
Regular Inspection:
Make it a habit to inspect your cheese regularly. If you spot any signs of mold, don’t hesitate – cut it away immediately. Use a clean knife to trim at least an inch around and beneath the moldy area. This ensures you remove any potential spores that might be lurking.
Clean Hands Rule:
Before handling your cheese, always wash your hands thoroughly. This simple step helps prevent the transfer of unwanted bacteria and molds onto the cheese’s surface. Remember, cleanliness is your cheese’s best friend.
Separate Strong Smells:
Cheese has a unique ability to absorb odors from its surroundings. Keep your cheese away from strong-smelling items like onions, garlic, or other pungent foods. Use a separate container or cheese drawer if possible to maintain the integrity of each cheese’s flavor.
Cheese Companionship:
Certain cheeses, especially soft and moist varieties, can be more prone to mold growth. To prevent cross-contamination, store different types of cheese separately. This way, the mold from one won’t spread to the others, preserving the distinct flavors of each.
Vacuum Sealing:
For long-term storage, consider vacuum-sealing your cheese. This method removes excess air, preventing mold growth. Just be sure to use proper cheese paper or wax paper before vacuum-sealing to maintain the cheese’s texture and flavor.
Rotate Your Stock:
Avoid playing favorites with your cheese selection. Rotate your cheese stock regularly, consuming older cheeses first. This helps ensure that no cheese is left sitting for too long, reducing the chances of mold taking hold.
Embrace the Rind:
Don’t be too quick to discard the rind – it serves as a protective layer against mold. If the cheese has a natural rind, let it do its job. However, if the rind seems to be developing mold, it’s time to take action and trim it away.
By following these 10 simple tips, you can keep your cheese stash mold-free and enjoy its deliciousness for longer. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in preserving the cheesy goodness that brings joy to your taste buds.