Mouldy parmesan cheese is a common sight in grocery stores, but shoppers often wonder whether or not it is detectable to the naked eye or safe to eat. Such questions are difficult to answer conclusively since the safety of parmesan cheese depends on multiple factors. This article aims to inform potential shoppers of the risks associated with eating mouldy parmesan cheese.
Most experts advise against eating any type of mouldy cheese because they contain mould that could be unsafe for human consumption, regardless of whether they are labelled as “mould-ripened” or “soft-ripened”. The presence of mould may cause food poisoning due to the presence of mycotoxins, which are naturally occurring toxins produced by certain types of fungi.
Mouldy parmesan cheese is especially dangerous as it contains a higher fat content than other cheeses. The fat molecules within it are easily broken down by mould, which means that the mould can spread very quickly and produce more toxins. In addition, the mould can lead to discolouration and pungent odours, which could indicate that the cheese should not be consumed.
Beyond potential safety concerns, mould may also spoil the flavour of parmesan cheese, making it less enjoyable to eat. Cheese experts say that it is best to avoid eating mouldy parmesan cheese, as it may cause health problems or be inedible.
If you come across a piece of parmesan cheese with visible mould, be sure to check the expiration date. If it has expired, it should be discarded as soon as possible. Even if the cheese still has some time before it expires, you should still discard it for safety reasons. It is not enough to simply scrape off the mould, as the mould could have spread further into the cheese.
In some cases, it is possible to detect mould on parmesan cheese by sight or smell. If you notice a blemish on the surface of the cheese, it is likely to be mould. If you notice a musty or sour smell emanating from the cheese, it is also likely to be mouldy. Visible mould should be avoided at all costs, as consuming it could lead to illness.
When purchasing parmesan cheese, be sure to check the packaging carefully. Look for any small holes or patches of discolouration, as these could indicate that the cheese is already mouldy. You should also avoid buying any cheese with an odd smell, as this could also indicate that the cheese is mouldy.
Storage Tips For Mould-Free Parmesan Cheese
If you want to ensure that your parmesan cheese remains mould-free, it is important to follow some key storage tips. Parmesan cheese should always be stored in the refrigerator, ideally in an airtight container. This will help to keep the cheese from drying out and prevent the growth of mould. As the cheese will likely be exposed to some moisture in the fridge, it is important to keep it tightly sealed so that the moisture does not seep into the cheese, which could lead to mould growth.
In addition, it is important to store parmesan cheese away from other food items that could cause cross-contamination. The cheese should not be stored next to any vegetables or fruits, as these could contain spores that may lead to mould growth. To be on the safe side, it is best to place the parmesan cheese in its own compartment in the refrigerator.
Finally, it is a good idea to label the cheese with the date so that you can keep track of when it was purchased. This will help you determine when it is best to throw away the cheese, as it has a relatively short shelf life compared to other cheeses. If the cheese is not labelled, you should discard it after two weeks.
Other Steps To Take To Prevent Mouldy Parmesan Cheese
In addition to storing parmesan cheese properly, there are also steps that you can take to ensure that the cheese remains as fresh as possible. It is important to buy parmesan cheese from a trusted source, as this will help to ensure that it is of good quality. Lower quality parmesan cheese is more likely to be susceptible to mould growth because it contains a lower fat content and more water.
It is also advisable to check the parmesan cheese before purchasing, as this will help to ensure that it is of good quality. Look for any discolouration or pungent odours, as these may indicate that the cheese is already mouldy. Additionally, be sure to check the expiration date and avoid buying any cheese that has already expired.
While it is possible to tell whether or not parmesan cheese is mouldy by sight and smell, it is still best to avoid buying any cheese that is visibly mouldy. The risks associated with consuming mouldy cheese are simply too high to take the chance.
Conclusion
Parmesan cheese can be a delicious addition to any meal, but it is important to take steps to ensure that it does not become mouldy. If you come across a piece of parmesan cheese with visible mould, make sure to check its expiration date and discard it as soon as possible. Be sure to store parmesan cheese properly and buy it from a trusted source, and remember to label it with the date so that you can keep track of its freshness.
