How to properly store cheese in the refrigerator so that it does not mold

Cheese was made in ancient times, during the development of agriculture. The product appeared by accident, people left the milk in the sun for a few hours: it fermented and the protein components curdled into a solid mass. When the liquid part, or whey, was drained and removed, leaving only the solid curd, farmers realized that it had a pleasant taste.

Since then, countries around the world have begun experimenting with production: varying the types of milk, the time the cheese is aged and ripened, and the use of different additives to produce unique textures and flavors.

Benefits of cheese

Cheese is a nutrient-rich dairy product containing proteins, fats, and minerals. It is a source of calcium, protein, phosphorus, vitamin A and B12. The nutrients vary depending on its type.

Some people digest cheese better than milk because it has less lactose, a type of sugar that is poorly digested unless a person has the enzyme to break it down.

Consuming cheese in small quantities (no more than 40g per day) has positive health benefits, including

strengthens muscles and bones due to its calcium and protein content;
reduces inflammation;
prevents heart disease and obesity;
lowers blood pressure (low-sodium cheese);
protects blood vessels from damage due to the antioxidant glutathione;
improves gut health with probiotic bacteria.

Potential Health Risks

As for the potential risks of eating cheese, its protein, casein, can cause allergies. It is manifested by inflammation all over the body, rashes, acne, headaches and nasal congestion.

In addition, the product is high in saturated fat, which raises LDL cholesterol levels, as well as sodium. This is why it is recommended to eat cheese in limited quantities, as the product’s components can have a negative impact on heart health.

At what temperature to store

Cheese contains many useful microelements and products of bacterial fermentation, which is very beneficial for the intestines and the body as a whole. However, the product tends to spoil quickly. Below we will understand how to store it correctly, so that it retains its flavor and quality.

Gastroenterologist, hepatologist at the Hadassah branch of the Hadassah Clinic in the Skolkovo International Medical Cluster

“Different types of cheese have their own temperature storage conditions. However, one thing is clear: the product should definitely be put away in the refrigerator.”

So, hard cheeses (e.g. Parmesan, cheddar, gouda) should be stored at a temperature of +4 to +8 degrees Celsius.

Semi-hard cheeses (e.g. mozzarella, provolone, emmental) can be stored at +4 to +10 degrees Celsius.

Soft cheeses (e.g. brie, camembert, feta) require a temperature of +2 to +6 degrees Celsius.

Choosing the right packaging

When storing cheese, it is important to pay attention to the packaging, says the gastroenterologist.

Air is the main enemy of cheese. Therefore, it is recommended to store the product in parchment paper or food film to ensure proper air circulation and keep it fresh.

If there is a need for longer storage, it is a good idea to wrap the cheese in gauze or oiled paper before packaging. This will help prevent moisture loss and preserve its texture.

Alternatively, you can freeze the cheese, but it’s best to cut the block into portions before putting it away in the fridge. This way, it will be easier to defrost it.

Duration of storage

The shelf life of cheese is also important and depends on the type and storage conditions. So, for hard cheeses – it is acceptable up to several months, semi-firm – up to several weeks, soft – up to a few days.

According to Rospotrebnadzor, the shelf life of cheese after opening the package is five days, regardless of what kind of packaging – cut or grated, sealed in plastic film, vacuum packaging.

Special cases

As for cheeses with mold, it is recommended to protect them from moisture by packing them in parchment paper. It is important to make sure that the mold does not spread throughout the cheese.

If you notice that mold has started to grow on the surface of the cheese, it is best to throw it away.

Spicy varieties should be stored in a separate package to prevent the flavor from spoiling.

Signs of spoilage

If the storage period is violated, cheese is a health hazard. It is possible to realize that the product has spoiled by characteristic signs:

darker or unnatural color;
a sour, rancid odor;
a softer, sticky or crumbly texture;
the appearance of mold.

If you are not sure about the freshness of the cheese, it is better to throw it away. It is not worth risking your health. Symptoms of food poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever.