To store cheese for as long as possible, several practical guidelines should be followed. A London cheese expert from La Fromagerie emphasized simple, reliable techniques that help preserve flavor and texture over time.
For extended freshness, the recommended approach is to wrap cheese in two layers of parchment paper. This method allows the cheese to breathe while protecting it from drying out. Foil, by contrast, should be avoided because it can trap moisture and alter the cheese’s rind and aroma.
Once wrapped, the cheese should be placed inside a plastic container that has a damp cloth or towel tucked inside. The container should be kept airtight to minimize fluctuations in humidity and temperature, which can accelerate spoilage or deepen unwanted aromas.
Stored this way, the wrapped cheese can reside in the refrigerator until ready to use. Proper cooling helps maintain its texture and flavor, ensuring it remains enjoyable for a longer period than when left exposed to air.
An unusual tip from the same expert involves placing a small amount of sugar in a shallow dish with the cheese, followed by sealing the container tightly before refrigerating. The sugar is said to help keep the cheese fresh by absorbing excess moisture and stabilizing the environment around the cheese.
Over time, the sugar may melt as it absorbs moisture, but the cheese is expected to be consumed before the sugar’s effects diminish. This anecdote reflects a historical belief about kitchen tricks that may not always align with modern food science, yet it remains part of some traditional storage practices.
Beyond these methods, there has been a long history of debunked myths about foods that supposedly preserve or enhance health. Contemporary guidance favors proven refrigeration, proper packaging, and mindful handling rather than relying on folk remedies or outdated claims.
Modern stores and cheesemongers alike recommend inspecting cheese before and after refrigeration, noting changes in texture or aroma and adjusting storage accordingly. Maintaining a clean, dry environment around the cheese helps sustain its best qualities. If a cheese develops an off smell, excessive mold, or a slimy surface, it should be handled with caution and discarded when necessary to prevent spoilage of other items in the fridge.
Ultimately, the key to long-lasting cheese lies in gentle handling, correct wrapping, and stable cold storage. By combining breathable wrapping with an airtight container and a properly humid, cool environment, cheese enthusiasts can extend the life of many varieties while preserving their distinctive character and flavor for as long as possible.