Question 1

Does cheese expire?

Accepted Answer

Yes, cheese does expire. The lifespan of cheese varies depending on the type of cheese, packaging, and storage conditions. Hard and aged cheeses, such as Cheddar and Parmesan, can last several months or even years if stored properly. On the other hand, fresh and soft cheeses, including Ricotta, Brie, and Camembert, have a shorter lifespan and should be consumed more quickly. Always check the expiration date on the package and monitor for signs of spoilage, such as mold, an off smell, or a change in texture.

Question 2

What is the best way to store cheese?

Accepted Answer

Always store cheese in the refrigerator, preferably in a vegetable drawer where it benefits from the higher humidity levels. Avoid wrapping cheese in plastic wrap, as it can trap in moisture and spoil the cheese. Instead, opt for cheese paper or parchment paper, which will allow the cheese to breathe and continue maturing. After wrapping the cheese, you can then place it in a container or storage bag. Store strong smelling cheeses separately to prevent the cross-contamination of flavours.

Question 3

Can you freeze cheese?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can freeze cheese to extend its shelf life. However, freezing cheese can change its taste and texture, causing it to become dry and crumbly. Nevertheless, it’s typically OK to use for cooking or melting. Some cheeses are better suited for freezing than others. For example, semi-firm to hard blocks of cheese, such as Cheddar, Gouda, and Swiss, freeze better than fresh, soft, and creamy cheeses or cheeses that have a natural rind. When freezing cheese, use a vacuum sealer, if available, to minimize exposure to air. Or wrap the cheese in parchment paper or wax paper followed by aluminum foil to hold it in place. As a last resort, use a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to use your frozen cheese, allow it to thaw gradually in the refrigerator to minimize changes to texture, and use it straight away.

Question 4

What are the different types of cheeses?

Accepted Answer

Cheese comes in a variety of textures and flavours, influenced by preparation method, aging process, and other factors. Hard cheeses, such as Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda, are aged longer and have a firm texture, while semi-hard cheeses, like Swiss and Monterey Jack, are slightly softer but still flavourful. Semi-soft cheeses, including Mozzarella and Havarti, have a milder flavour and are great for melting. Soft cheeses, like Camembert and Brie, have a creamy texture and mild flavour. Blue cheeses, such as Roquefort and Gorgonzola, have a blue or green mold throughout that gives them that distinct tangy kick. Fresh cheeses, like Cottage and Ricotta, are not aged and have a soft, mild flavour. Finally, processed cheeses are made from a blend of different cheese types and other ingredients, providing a uniform taste and texture.

Question 5

What cheese is best for a cheeseboard?

Accepted Answer

The key to a great cheese board is variety! Include different flavours (mild to strong cheeses), textures (soft to hard cheeses), and colours. Remember to use a separate cheese knife for each type of cheese to avoid mixing flavours. You can also add accompaniments, such as sliced deli meats, fresh and dried fruits, nuts, honey, jams, and a selection of breads and crackers.

Question 6

How long should cheese rest before serving?

Accepted Answer

Cheese should rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to one hour before serving. Bringing the cheese to room temperature enhances its flavour and texture. However, the amount of time varies depending on the type of cheese and the temperature of the room. Soft cheeses may need less time to rest, while hard cheeses could benefit from more time. Always remember to cover cheese while it rests to prevent it from drying out.

Grocery/Dairy & Eggs/Cheese

Cheese shop

Shop by category

Weekly flyer features

Black Diamond Cheestring Lactose Free Marble Cheese

Black Diamond Cheestrings Marble Cheese, 16 units

Mini Babybel Original Cheese Snacks

Black Diamond Cheese Sticks Marble Cheddar, 12 units

Black Diamond Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Black Diamond Natural Cheese Sticks Medium Cheddar, 12 units

Black Diamond Mexican Shredded Cheese

Black Diamond Cheestrings Mozzarella Cheese

The Laughing Cow, Garlic & Herbs, Spreadable Cheese 8P

Black Diamond Mozzarella Cheese Bar

Black Diamond Cheddar Cheestrings

Armstrong Pizza Mozzarella Shredded Cheese

Armstrong Triple Cheddar Shredded Cheese

The Laughing Cow, Original, Spreadable Cheese 8P

Your Fresh Market Havarti Cheese with Jalapeño

Black Diamond Marble Cheese Probiotic Cheestrings

Your Fresh Market Provolone Cheese Slices

Your Fresh Market Smoked Flavour Gouda Cheese

Your Fresh Market Swiss Sliced Cheese 27% Mf

aMOOza! Mozza Cheese Stix, 12-Pack

Deli cheese

Cheese, pretzels & more!

Fantino & Mondello Sliced Salami Charcuterie Meat Trio, 100 g

Our Finest Triple Cream Brie

Fantino & Mondello Chorizo Salami and Prosciutto Charcuterie Trio, 100 g

Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Drizzlers

Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Everything

Our Finest 35% M.F. Triple Cream Brie Cheese

Fantino & Mondello Sliced Dry Pepperoni, 200 g

Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Original

Fantino & Mondello Sliced Cup N Crisp Dry Pepperoni, 175 g

Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Garlic Parmesan

Fantino & Mondello Diced Original Cooked Pancetta, 125 g

Fantino & Mondello Original Salametti, 175 g

Fantino & Mondello Dry Chorizo Sausage, 175 g

Cheese snacks

Great Value Marble Stringable Pizza Mozzarella Cheese

Great Value Marbled Stringable Pizza Mozzarella Cheese, Family Size

The Laughing Cow, Original Cheese Dippers 4P

Great Value Marble Pizza Mozzarella Cheese

Great Value Lactose Free Marble Cheese Strings

Mini Babybel Original Cheese Snacks

Great Value Mozzarella Style Pizza Mozzarella Cheese

The Laughing Cow, Original, Spreadable Cheese 32P

Category Best Sellers

Black Diamond Marble Cheddar Cheese Bar, 400g

Great Value Cream Cheese Spread

Black Diamond Old Cheddar Cheese Bar, 400g

Philadelphia Original Cream Cheese Product

Amooza Mozzarella Cheddar Twists Cheese Strings,12 units

Philadelphia Original Cream Cheese Product

Great Value Medium Cheddar Cheese Slices

Armstrong Tex Mex Shredded Cheese

Black Diamond Medium Cheddar Cheese Bar, 400g

Philadelphia Original Brick Cream Cheese

Great Value Cream Cheese Spread Original

Babybel Mini Rolls Cheese Snacks 6P

Great Value Lactose Free Marble Cheddar Cheese Slices

Great Value Havarti Cheese

Cracker Barrel Old White Cheddar Cheese Block, 400g

Great Value 1% Cottage Cheese

Kraft Singles Original Process Cheese Product Thin Slices, 26 ct Pack

Great Value Nacho Blend Shredded Cheese

Armstrong Marble Cheddar Cheese Sticks

Great Value Light Cream Cheese

Shop by brand

Types of cheese & serving

What are the different types of cheeses?

What cheese is best for a cheeseboard?

How long should cheese rest before serving?

How to store cheese

Does cheese expire?

What is the best way to store cheese?

Can you freeze cheese?

Related Links

Grocery
Dairy & Eggs
Cheese