Have you bought a piece of cheese and don’t know how to store it properly to maintain its unique taste and freshness? Read this guide to discover the best storage practices.
How to Store Cheese in the Refrigerator?
The first rule to remember is that cheese needs to be stored at the right temperature to preserve its quality.
However, keep in mind that each type of cheese has different needs:
Fresh cheeses should be kept in their original packaging or airtight containers to prevent them from absorbing unwanted odors. These cheeses should be stored at a temperature between 2°C and 4°C, preferably in the lower section of the fridge.
Semi-hard and hard cheeses, such as Montasio cheese, should be wrapped in food-grade paper or a cotton cloth. This helps maintain the right level of humidity while allowing air circulation to prevent excessive drying. The ideal storage temperature is between 8°C and 10°C.
Aged cheeses should be stored on the middle shelves of the fridge, where the temperature is between 6°C and 8°C. Wrap them in special cheese paper or cotton cloths to allow proper aging without suffocating them.
What if cheese develops mold?
It’s not uncommon for cheese to develop mold, but there’s no need to panic.
For aged or semi-aged cheeses, simply remove the affected area, and the rest of the cheese will still be safe to eat. However, if mold appears on your favorite soft cheese (such as stracchino), unfortunately, it’s best to discard it to avoid unpleasant surprises!
Can I freeze Montasio cheese?
Some cheeses can be frozen, but we do not recommend freezing Montasio cheese. Extreme temperature changes can alter its texture and organoleptic properties.
For the best tasting experience, always consume cheese fresh to fully appreciate its aroma and complex flavors.
Keep cheese away from other foods
One important rule for proper cheese storage is to prevent direct contact with other foods, especially unwashed vegetables, raw meat, or eggs, which could transfer bacteria or unwanted mold.
Additionally, cheese easily absorbs surrounding odors, which can alter its authentic taste. To preserve its quality and fragrance, store it in separate containers or wrap it individually, keeping it away from other foods in the fridge.
A simple tip for the best tasting experience: before serving, take the cheese out of the refrigerator one to two hours in advance. At room temperature, you’ll be able to fully appreciate its rich flavors and delicate aromas.
By following these simple tips, you’ll enjoy your favorite cheeses at their best, keeping them fresh and delicious for longer!
