Tips for Keeping Soft and Hard Cheeses Fresh Longer
Cheese is a beloved food item, whether it's soft, creamy Brie or firm, aged cheddar. To enjoy it at its best, proper storage is essential to extend its shelf life and preserve its flavor and texture.
Whether you have a gourmet selection from the USA or your local deli, there are a few key tips to ensure your cheeses stay fresh longer.
For both soft and hard cheeses, storing them in the right containers is crucial. A breathable cheese paper or wax paper is ideal for wrapping cheese.
It allows the cheese to breathe, preventing it from drying out while maintaining the right humidity level. For softer cheeses like Brie or Camembert, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper, and then place them in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air.
Hard cheeses like Parmesan or aged Gouda benefit from being wrapped in cheese paper, followed by a loose layer of plastic wrap to maintain moisture balance.
Cheese should always be stored in the refrigerator, but different cheeses may require different storage conditions.
Soft cheeses are best kept in the warmest part of the fridge, often towards the front or in a designated cheese drawer, where the temperature is slightly higher (around 40°F).
Hard cheeses, on the other hand, should be stored in the coldest part of the fridge, generally at a temperature of 34°F to 36°F.
These items are designed to create a controlled environment for your cheese, preserving its freshness and preventing it from being exposed to air.