How to Store Cheddar Cheese

Age improves the flavor of Cheddar cheese.

Cheddar cheese has a nutty flavor and smooth texture that improves with age when stored in an appropriate manner. Cheddar cheese thrives during extended periods of aging under suitable storage conditions. Some cheese makers store choice "wheels" of cheese for up to two years to allow the sharpness of the cheese to become more prevalent. In order to maintain the taste and quality of your cheddar cheese take the necessary steps to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Things You'll Need

• Refrigerator
• Refrigerator thermometer
• Plastic wrap
• Aluminum foil
• Refrigerator drawer

Instructions

1. Check the inside temperature of your refrigerator. It should remain between 34 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit for optimum cheese storage. Use a refrigerator thermometer to determine an accurate storage temperature.

2. Store the cheese in its original wrapping prior to use. Wrap leftover cheese with plastic film wrap or aluminum foil. Check to ensure no air pockets remain within the film wrap and press aluminum foil tightly to eliminate air spaces.

3. Place the cheese in a refrigerator drawer. Cheddar cheese attracts and absorbs odors from other foods in the refrigerator and this helps to protect and retain the true flavor of the cheese.

Tips & Warnings

• Double-wrap cheese to help protect it from mold.

• Freezing cheddar cheese causes it to lose much of its texture and the cheese crumbles when thawed.

References

• Southern Utah University: Cheese
• University of Nebraska: Use a Refrigerator AND a Freezer Thermometer; Alice Henneman MS, RD, et al.
• Clemson University Cooperative Extension; Handling of Cheese for Safety and Quality; Pamela Schmutz, et al.; January 1999

Resources

• Cabot Creamery: Product Care; What is the Best Way to Store Cabot Cheese
• "Cheese Primer": Steven W. Jenkins; 1996