Cheese doesn’t have to end up in the trash. With the average American throwing out 40 percent of their food—including plenty of cheese—storing it the right way can save both flavor and money.
Skip the plastic and try these five simple, eco-friendly methods to keep your cheese fresh longer. From beeswax wraps to cheese grottos, these tips ensure no slice goes to waste.
1. Cheese Paper
Cheese paper is the gold standard for storing cheese without plastic. This specialized paper allows the cheese to breathe while maintaining the right humidity level.
It’s a two-ply material with a waxy outer layer and a porous inner layer that wicks away excess moisture. To use cheese paper, wrap your cheese snugly, covering all surfaces. This method is particularly effective for semi-hard and hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and parmesan.
Properly wrapped cheese can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator when stored on cheese paper.
2. Beeswax Wraps
Beeswax wraps offer an eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap and work wonderfully for cheese storage. These reusable wraps are made from cotton fabric coated with beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin. And has natural antibacterial properties that help keep cheese fresh while allowing it to breathe.
To use beeswax wraps, simply mold the wrap around your cheese using the warmth of your hands. The wrap will create a seal that can be easily opened and resealed. This method is ideal for softer cheeses like brie, camembert, and semi-hard varieties.
The wraps can extend the life of your cheese by up to a week longer than plastic wrap.
3. Parchment or Wax Paper
For a more accessible option, parchment or wax paper can be an effective cheese storage solution. These materials allow the cheese to breathe while providing a barrier against excess moisture. They’re particularly useful for wrapping cheese before placing it in a container.
To use this method, wrap your cheese loosely in parchment or wax paper, then place it in a partially sealed plastic container or reusable silicone bag. This approach creates a microclimate that helps maintain the cheese’s texture and flavor.
While not as specialized as cheese paper, this method can keep cheese fresh for up to 10 days.
4. Glass or Ceramic Containers
Glass or ceramic containers offer another plastic-free storage option for cheese. These non-reactive materials won’t impart any unwanted flavors to your cheese. They also provide a stable environment that helps regulate humidity and temperature.
To store cheese in glass or ceramic containers, first, wrap the cheese in parchment paper or a clean cloth. Then, place it in the container with the lid slightly ajar to allow air circulation.
This method works well for all types of cheese and can keep them fresh for up to two weeks. Additionally, clear glass containers allow you to monitor your cheese’s condition easily.
5. Cheese Grotto or Cheese Vault
For the serious cheese enthusiast, a cheese grotto or vault is the ultimate storage solution. These specialized containers mimic the conditions of a cheese cave and are designed to create the perfect environment for cheese storage.
Cheese grottos typically feature adjustable humidity controls, ventilation, and materials like bamboo or clay that naturally regulate moisture. They can accommodate multiple types of cheese and keep them in optimal condition for weeks.
While more expensive than other options, a cheese grotto is an investment that can significantly extend the life of your cheese and enhance its flavor development.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.