Cheese. The very word conjures images of creamy brie, sharp cheddar, tangy goat cheese, and everything in between. A culinary cornerstone in many cultures, cheese is a versatile ingredient enjoyed on its own, melted into dishes, or grated over pasta. But to fully appreciate its flavors and textures, proper storage is paramount. This leads us to a common kitchen conundrum: does cheese belong in the crisper drawer? The answer, as with many things cheese-related, is nuanced.
The Perils of Improper Cheese Storage
Before diving into the crisper drawer debate, let’s understand why proper cheese storage is so important. Cheese, unlike some other dairy products, is a living, breathing food. It’s teeming with microorganisms that contribute to its unique flavor and texture profiles. These microorganisms continue to work even after the cheese has been purchased, influencing its aging process. Improper storage can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to:
- Mold growth: While some cheeses are intentionally mold-ripened, unwanted mold can spoil the flavor and potentially make the cheese unsafe to eat.
- Drying out: Cheese loses moisture over time, especially when exposed to air. This can result in a hard, cracked, and unappetizing texture.
- Flavor absorption: Cheese readily absorbs odors from its environment. Storing it near strongly scented foods can compromise its delicate flavors.
- Changes in texture: Depending on the type of cheese, improper storage can lead to unwanted softening, hardening, or a generally unpleasant texture.
- Accelerated spoilage: Ultimately, improper storage shortens the lifespan of your cheese, leading to unnecessary waste.
Understanding the Crisper Drawer Environment
The crisper drawer, typically located at the bottom of your refrigerator, is designed to provide a high-humidity environment. This is ideal for preserving the freshness of fruits and vegetables, which tend to lose moisture quickly. The humidity helps prevent wilting and keeps produce crisp and vibrant.
But what about cheese? Cheese has varying moisture contents, and its storage needs differ based on its type. The high humidity environment of a crisper drawer can be both beneficial and detrimental to cheese, depending on the specific variety.
The Humidity Factor: Friend or Foe?
The high humidity within a crisper drawer can be both a blessing and a curse for cheese. For some cheeses, it helps prevent them from drying out and cracking. For others, it can create an environment ripe for mold growth.
Consider the moisture content of the cheese. Hard cheeses, like Parmesan and aged cheddar, generally have a lower moisture content. Soft cheeses, such as brie and mozzarella, have a higher moisture content. This difference is crucial in determining the ideal storage conditions.
The Cheese-Specific Storage Guide
Let’s break down cheese storage recommendations based on different cheese types:
Hard Cheeses (Parmesan, Cheddar, Gruyere)
Hard cheeses are generally more resilient and less susceptible to the negative effects of refrigeration. While the crisper drawer’s high humidity isn’t necessarily harmful, it’s not the ideal location.
- Recommended storage: Wrap tightly in wax paper or cheese paper, then place in a resealable plastic bag or container. Store in the main body of the refrigerator, away from the door (where temperatures fluctuate more).
- Why this works: The wax paper allows the cheese to breathe while protecting it from drying out. The plastic bag or container provides an extra barrier against odors.
- Crisper drawer suitability: Not recommended as the primary storage location. While it won’t necessarily ruin the cheese, it doesn’t offer any specific benefits.
Semi-Hard Cheeses (Gouda, Monterey Jack, Havarti)
Semi-hard cheeses have a moderate moisture content and require a balance of humidity and airflow.
- Recommended storage: Wrap in wax paper or cheese paper, then place in a loosely sealed plastic bag or container. Store in the main body of the refrigerator.
- Why this works: Similar to hard cheeses, the wax paper allows for breathability, while the loose seal prevents excessive moisture buildup.
- Crisper drawer suitability: Potentially suitable, if you can control the humidity. Some crisper drawers have adjustable humidity settings. If yours does, set it to a lower humidity level. However, the main body of the refrigerator is generally a safer bet.
Soft Cheeses (Brie, Camembert, Feta, Mozzarella)
Soft cheeses are the most delicate and require careful storage to maintain their texture and flavor. Their high moisture content makes them particularly susceptible to mold growth.
Recommended storage:
- Brie and Camembert: Store in their original packaging or wrap in wax paper and place in a breathable container.
- Feta: Submerge in its brine in a sealed container.
- Mozzarella: Store in its original liquid (whey or water) in a sealed container.
- Why this works: Maintaining the cheese’s moisture level is crucial for soft cheeses. The brine for feta and the liquid for mozzarella are essential for preserving their texture and flavor.
- Crisper drawer suitability: Generally not recommended. The high humidity can encourage excessive mold growth, especially for brie and Camembert. While feta and mozzarella are stored in liquid, the crisper drawer’s humidity doesn’t offer any additional benefit.
Blue Cheeses (Gorgonzola, Roquefort, Stilton)
Blue cheeses are intentionally mold-ripened, but that doesn’t mean they are immune to unwanted mold growth. They also tend to have a strong aroma that can easily transfer to other foods.
- Recommended storage: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a sealed container. Store in the main body of the refrigerator, away from other foods.
- Why this works: The foil or plastic wrap helps contain the aroma and prevent the blue cheese from drying out. The sealed container provides an extra layer of protection against odor transfer.
- Crisper drawer suitability: Not recommended. The humidity can exacerbate the aroma and potentially lead to unwanted mold growth.
The Role of Cheese Paper and Wraps
You’ve likely noticed the recurring recommendation for “wax paper” or “cheese paper.” But what makes these materials so special?
- Breathability: Cheese paper and wax paper are designed to allow cheese to breathe, preventing moisture buildup that can lead to mold growth.
- Protection: They provide a barrier against the dry air of the refrigerator, preventing the cheese from drying out and cracking.
- Flavor preservation: They help maintain the cheese’s natural flavor by preventing it from absorbing odors from its environment.
Avoid using plastic wrap as the sole wrapping material for cheese. While it provides a good barrier against air, it also traps moisture, which can create a breeding ground for mold. If you must use plastic wrap, wrap the cheese loosely and change it frequently.
Tips for Optimal Cheese Storage, Regardless of Location
Regardless of where you choose to store your cheese, these general tips will help extend its shelf life and preserve its flavor:
- Buy only what you need: Cheese is best enjoyed fresh. Avoid buying large quantities that you won’t be able to consume before they spoil.
- Wrap cheese tightly: Whether you use wax paper, cheese paper, or foil, ensure that the cheese is wrapped tightly to minimize air exposure.
- Use airtight containers: Placing wrapped cheese in an airtight container provides an extra layer of protection against odors and moisture.
- Store cheese away from strong-smelling foods: Cheese readily absorbs odors, so keep it away from foods like onions, garlic, and strong spices.
- Check your refrigerator temperature: The ideal refrigerator temperature for cheese storage is between 35°F and 45°F (2°C and 7°C).
- Bring cheese to room temperature before serving: Allowing cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving enhances its flavor and texture.
- Inspect your cheese regularly: Check for signs of mold growth, discoloration, or off-odors.
- Remove mold carefully (for hard cheeses): If you find a small amount of mold on a hard cheese, you can often cut it away, being sure to cut at least 1 inch around the moldy area. However, if the mold is extensive or if it’s a soft cheese, it’s best to discard the cheese.
- Wash rind cheeses with brine: Periodically washing your rind cheeses with a simple brine (salt and water) can help deter unwanted mold and promote the growth of beneficial molds.
Decoding Cheese Expiration Dates
Understanding cheese expiration dates can be confusing. Most cheeses don’t have a true “expiration date” but rather a “best by” or “sell by” date. This date indicates the period during which the cheese is expected to be at its peak quality.
- Hard cheeses: Can often be consumed well past the “best by” date, as long as they are stored properly and show no signs of spoilage.
- Semi-hard cheeses: Generally have a shorter shelf life than hard cheeses but can still last for several weeks past the “best by” date if stored properly.
- Soft cheeses: Are the most perishable and should be consumed as close to the “best by” date as possible.
Trust your senses. If a cheese smells or looks off, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
The Verdict: Crisper Drawer or No Crisper Drawer?
So, does cheese belong in the crisper drawer? The answer is generally no, with some minor exceptions. While the high humidity environment might seem beneficial for preventing drying, it can also promote unwanted mold growth, especially for soft cheeses. The main body of the refrigerator, with proper wrapping and storage techniques, provides a more stable and controlled environment for most cheese varieties.
Ultimately, the best way to store cheese is to understand the specific needs of each type and to follow the storage recommendations outlined above. With a little knowledge and care, you can ensure that your cheese stays fresh, flavorful, and enjoyable for longer. Embrace the art of cheese storage, and savor every bite!
Frequently Asked Question 1: Is the crisper drawer really the best place to store cheese?
The crisper drawer’s primary function is to maintain high humidity, which is generally beneficial for preserving the freshness of fruits and vegetables. However, this high humidity can be detrimental to cheese, particularly hard and semi-hard varieties. The excess moisture can promote mold growth and alter the cheese’s texture, making it overly soft and affecting its flavor profile.
Instead of the crisper, consider storing cheese in a dedicated cheese drawer or a less humid section of your refrigerator. Wrapping cheese properly in cheese paper or parchment paper, then placing it in a loosely sealed plastic bag, provides a better environment for maintaining its quality. This allows the cheese to breathe while minimizing exposure to excessive moisture and strong refrigerator odors.
Frequently Asked Question 2: What types of cheese should *never* be stored in the crisper drawer?
Hard cheeses like Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, and aged cheddar are particularly vulnerable to the humid conditions of the crisper drawer. Their low moisture content makes them more susceptible to absorbing excess moisture from the environment, leading to mold growth and a mushy texture. This ruins their intended dry and crumbly consistency.
Furthermore, semi-hard cheeses like Gruyere, Gouda, and Havarti also fare better outside the crisper. While they have a slightly higher moisture content than hard cheeses, the high humidity can still compromise their flavor and texture. The crisper’s moisture promotes surface mold and affects the cheese’s ability to age properly, leading to undesirable results.
Frequently Asked Question 3: Are there any cheeses that actually benefit from crisper drawer storage?
While most cheeses are not ideally suited for the crisper drawer, certain very soft and creamy cheeses, like fresh mozzarella balls stored in water or spreadable cheeses like cream cheese, might benefit from the added humidity if they are prone to drying out quickly. This is because the high moisture content helps prevent them from hardening and cracking.
However, even for these cheeses, careful monitoring is crucial. Ensure the cheese is properly sealed in its original packaging or an airtight container to prevent excessive moisture absorption, which can lead to spoilage. Regularly check for any signs of mold growth or changes in texture and smell, and consume promptly.
Frequently Asked Question 4: How should cheese be wrapped for optimal storage, regardless of location?
The best way to wrap cheese is using cheese paper or parchment paper, as these materials allow the cheese to breathe while protecting it from drying out. Wrap the cheese snugly but not too tightly, leaving some room for air circulation. This helps prevent the buildup of moisture that can lead to mold.
After wrapping in cheese paper or parchment paper, consider placing the cheese in a loosely sealed plastic bag or container. This provides an additional barrier against refrigerator odors and helps maintain a stable environment. Avoid using plastic wrap directly on the cheese, as it can trap moisture and accelerate spoilage.
Frequently Asked Question 5: What is the ideal temperature for storing cheese?
The ideal temperature for storing most cheeses is between 35°F and 45°F (2°C and 7°C). This range helps slow down the aging process and prevents the cheese from drying out or becoming too soft. Avoid storing cheese in the refrigerator door, as the temperature fluctuations in this area can be detrimental.
Placing cheese towards the back of the refrigerator, where temperatures are generally more consistent, is a better approach. For longer-term storage, consider using a dedicated cheese refrigerator or wine cooler, which can provide more precise temperature control. Always check the specific storage recommendations for each type of cheese.
Frequently Asked Question 6: How can I prevent cheese from absorbing odors in the refrigerator?
Cheese readily absorbs odors from its surrounding environment, which can significantly impact its flavor. To prevent this, ensure the cheese is properly wrapped and stored in a sealed container or bag. Cheese paper or parchment paper is ideal as the first layer of protection.
Furthermore, be mindful of the other foods stored in your refrigerator. Avoid placing strong-smelling items, such as onions or garlic, near your cheese. Consider using odor absorbers, such as baking soda or activated charcoal, in your refrigerator to help neutralize unwanted smells.
Frequently Asked Question 7: How long does cheese typically last in the refrigerator?
The shelf life of cheese varies significantly depending on the type. Hard cheeses, like Parmesan and cheddar, can last for several weeks, or even months, if properly stored. Semi-hard cheeses, such as Gouda and Havarti, typically last for 2-3 weeks.
Soft cheeses, such as Brie and Camembert, have a shorter shelf life of about 1-2 weeks. Fresh cheeses, like mozzarella and ricotta, should be consumed within a few days of opening. Always check the “sell-by” or “use-by” date on the packaging and inspect the cheese for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or off odors, before consumption.