Have you ever wondered how to store cheese properly? Caring for your cheese is essential to enhance its flavor and prolong its shelf life. In a recent article published on CNET, a skilled cheesemonger shared valuable tips on how to properly store your cheese.

1. Ditch the plastic wrap: Plastic wrap suffocates cheese, affecting its taste and texture. Instead, use wax or parchment paper to cover your cheese before putting it in a container or a plastic bag. This way, the cheese can breathe and mature naturally.

2. Create the perfect environment: Cheese storage requires a balance between humidity and airflow. Store your cheese in a dedicated drawer or container in the fridge, keeping it away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. It’s essential to maintain a consistent temperature of approximately 40°F (4°C).

3. Don’t overcrowd: Give each cheese variety enough space in your storage setup to prevent cross-contamination of flavors and aromas. You can use individual containers or separate them using dividers or sheets of parchment paper.

4. Keep different categories apart: When storing various types of cheese together, separate soft, bloomy-rind cheeses (like Brie) from hard, aged cheeses (such as Cheddar). This distinction helps prevent moisture transfer between them.

5. Pay attention to the aging process: Fresh, unaged cheeses like mozzarella and feta need different storage conditions than their aged counterparts. Store them in airtight containers submerged in brine or whey to keep them fresh and moist.

6. Monitor your cheese: Inspect your stored cheeses periodically for any signs of mold, drying out, or off-flavors. Remove any excess moisture with a clean cloth, and trim away moldy parts if needed.

By following these expert tips from the cheesemonger, you can savor your favorite cheeses for a longer time and enjoy them at their best quality. Remember that proper storage is crucial in preserving cheese’s texture, flavor, and overall appeal.