How to store cheese after opening and keep it fresh for longer

Cheese that has been opened can become dry, sweaty or develop mould if not stored properly. The key to keeping it fresh is how you wrap and store it after opening. Leaving cheese in the original packaging with the cut surface exposed is one of the quickest ways to spoil it. To prevent this, wrap the remaining cheese properly. Baking paper works well for firm cheeses like cheddar.

Place the wrapped cheese in a reusable container or resealable bag to provide extra protection. Avoid using clingfilm as it does not keep hard cheeses as moist.

Different types of cheese require different storage methods. Hard and semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and parmesan can tolerate being wrapped and refrigerated after opening. They usually stay fresh for several weeks. Soft cheeses such as cream cheese, ricotta, and cottage cheese need more care due to their higher moisture content and shorter shelf life once opened.

It's best to keep them in their original containers with the lid tightly closed. Mozzarella, feta, and other similar cheeses should be stored according to the packaging instructions.

The fridge door is not the ideal place for cheese storage. Every time the fridge is opened, the door temperature fluctuates, making it less suitable for foods that need consistent refrigeration. Instead, store opened cheese on an inside shelf, preferably towards the back of the fridge where the temperature is more stable.

Avoid leaving the cut surface of cheese exposed to the air. It can quickly dry out and become susceptible to absorbing odours from other foods. Use a clean container with a secure lid to store cheese separately if you keep multiple types in the fridge. This prevents flavours and odours from mingling.

The shelf life of opened cheese depends on its type. Hard cheeses can last several weeks, while soft cheeses often need to be used within a week. Always follow the manufacturer's storage instructions and trust your judgement about the cheese's condition. Visible mould on soft cheeses indicates spoilage, while some hard cheeses can have a small mouldy section safely removed. If the cheese smells off, is slimy, or has changed significantly in appearance, it should be discarded.

Freezing cheese is not always successful. Hard cheeses like cheddar can be frozen and grated or portioned first, but the texture may change after thawing. Soft cheeses generally do not freeze well and large blocks should be divided for freezing. Overall, proper storage of opened cheese requires simple steps like keeping it refrigerated, protecting the cut surface, using clean utensils, and storing soft cheeses in their original containers.