In a TikTok video, UK surgeon Dr. Karan Rangarajan shared the correct way to store cheese in the refrigerator. He advised against placing cheese in plastic bags, especially softer cheeses with higher water content like havarti, mozzarella, or Gouda. When cheese is stored in a plastic bag, moisture can get trapped, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. This can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria like listeria, brucella, salmonella, and E. coli on the cheese surface.
The US Department of Agriculture provides guidelines for storing different types of cheese. Soft cheeses like cottage cheese, ricotta, or brie can be stored in the refrigerator for one week but do not freeze well. On the other hand, hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan can be frozen for six months or refrigerated for six months if the package is unopened. Once opened, hard cheeses can last three to four weeks in the fridge. Dr. Rangarajan recommends storing harder cheeses in plastic bags as they have less water content compared to softer cheeses. He advises wrapping the cheese in paper before placing it in a plastic bag.
Dr. Rangarajan’s TikTok video was inspired by a post from ConVino Board, a cheese and charcuterie brand known for sharing hacks for keeping cheese fresh. Nicolle Laviolette, the owner of ConVino Board, warned against using plastic baggies or saran wrap to store cheese as they can suffocate the cheese and lead to molding within days. Laviolette emphasized the importance of storing cheese properly in the fridge due to its expensive nature. Proper storage methods, like wrapping cheese in cheese storage paper, parchment paper, or wax paper, can extend the shelf life of cheese and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold.
Cheese lovers can benefit from following these simple yet effective tips to store cheese properly in the refrigerator. By avoiding plastic bags and opting for cheese storage paper, parchment paper, or wax paper, cheese can maintain its freshness for longer periods. It is important to consider the water content of the cheese when selecting storage methods, as softer cheeses with higher water content are more prone to bacterial growth if stored incorrectly. By being mindful of storage techniques and following guidelines from experts like Dr. Rangarajan and Nicolle Laviolette, cheese enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite dairy delight without worrying about spoilage or contamination.
In summary, storing cheese in the refrigerator requires attention to detail and adherence to best practices. Soft cheeses should be wrapped in cheese storage paper, parchment paper, or wax paper to prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to bacterial growth and mold. Hard cheeses can be stored in plastic bags if necessary, as they have lower water content and are less susceptible to moisture issues. By following expert recommendations from sources like Dr. Rangarajan and Nicolle Laviolette, cheese lovers can ensure that their favorite varieties stay fresh and safe for consumption. Proper cheese storage techniques can help extend the shelf life of cheese and minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses associated with mold and bacterial contamination.
