Storing cheese correctly and prolonging its shelf life has never been easier using this one kitchen staple that’s probably in your drawer, and it really works
Storing cheese doesn’t sound complicated. However, you’ve probably been doing it wrong this entire time. By wrapping it correctly, you can make it last much longer using this kitchen staple.
Cheese is an essential kitchen ingredient for many people, and its versatility makes it a great addition to a lot of dishes. From pasta or pastries and even as a snack, it’s a comfort food to many. But it can be disheartening when your block of mature cheddar has started to harden off at the ends after just a few days of opening it.
Leaving the cut end exposed to the dry and cold temperatures inside the fridge can make it go hard, discoloured and even invite mould to sprout prematurely.
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But this can be prevented. As written by The Cheese Lover, using cling film is the perfect way to expand its shelf life. To avoid your cheese becoming too dried or sweaty, it’s important for it to have space to breathe. This is done by only covering the cut surface, leaving the rind exposed.
The site explained: “Leaving cling film on for too long can encourage moulds to develop, so always use a fresh piece after cutting.”
To ensure the cheese remains in its prime condition, ensure it is wrapped tightly. Then, this should be kept in the salad drawer of the fridge, which is the area that’s usually the warmest compared to other parts.
It’s also important to remove the packaging as soon as you get home from the supermarket and to keep an eye on its texture, appearance and aroma. If it smells sour or rancid, it’s a sign of spoilage – and you should be getting rid of it immediately.
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How long does cheese last?
The shelf life of cheese depends on its type, as well as its storage. According to Cheshire Cheese Company, unopened cheese can last for a few weeks and even months past its ‘best by’ date when refrigerated.
Storing cheese correctly and prolonging its shelf life has never been so much easier using this one kitchen staple that’s probably in your drawer, and it really works.
Soft cheeses typically last up to seven days in the fridge after opening their packaging, whereas hard cheeses can last up to a month. Nonetheless, it’s still important to double-check its texture and taste, as this isn’t always guaranteed. If you’ve run out of cling film or don’t have any, it’s available in all UK supermarkets and local stores with prices starting at £1.79.
By following this simple advice, shoppers can ensure their cheeses last longer in the fridge. Not only will it save a last-minute trip to the supermarket, but it will also help you save some money – which adds up to a lot over time.