What To Know
- Cheese crystals are tiny, white or yellowish-white specks that can form on the surface or throughout the interior of hard or aged cheeses.
- If mold is present on the surface of the cheese, it’s best to cut off at least 1 inch around the moldy area before consuming the rest of the cheese.
- Yes, if mold is only present on the surface of the cheese, you can cut off at least 1 inch around the moldy area and consume the rest of the cheese.
When it comes to cheese, two common phenomena can raise questions: cheese crystals and mold. While both can appear on cheese, it’s crucial to distinguish between them for food safety and enjoyment purposes. This blog post aims to shed light on the differences between cheese crystals and mold, providing a comprehensive guide for cheese enthusiasts.
What are Cheese Crystals?
Cheese crystals are tiny, white or yellowish-white specks that can form on the surface or throughout the interior of hard or aged cheeses. They are composed of tyrosine, an amino acid found in milk proteins. As cheese ages, tyrosine crystals can form when excess moisture evaporates, leaving behind concentrated pockets of tyrosine.
Characteristics of Cheese Crystals
- Small, white or yellowish-white specks
- Hard and gritty texture
- Odorless and tasteless
- Safe to consume
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that can grow on cheese in various colors, including white, blue, green, and black. Unlike cheese crystals, mold is a living organism that can spoil cheese and make it unsafe to eat.
Characteristics of Mold
- Fuzzy or cottony appearance
- Can be various colors (white, blue, green, black)
- May have an unpleasant odor
- Can be harmful to health
How to Differentiate Between Cheese Crystals and Mold
1. Texture: Cheese crystals are hard and gritty, while mold is soft and fuzzy.
2. Color: Cheese crystals are typically white or yellowish-white, while mold can be white, blue, green, or black.
3. Odor: Cheese crystals are odorless, while mold may have an unpleasant odor.
4. Location: Cheese crystals can form anywhere in the cheese, while mold typically grows on the surface.
Is It Safe to Eat Cheese with Crystals?
Yes, cheese crystals are safe to eat. They are simply a byproduct of the aging process and do not affect the taste or texture of the cheese. In fact, some cheesemakers welcome the formation of cheese crystals as a sign of well-aged cheese.
When to Discard Cheese with Mold
Mold can be harmful to health, so it’s important to discard cheese that has visible mold growth. If mold is present on the surface of the cheese, it’s best to cut off at least 1 inch around the moldy area before consuming the rest of the cheese. However, if mold has penetrated deep into the cheese, it’s safer to discard the entire block.
Prevention of Mold Growth on Cheese
To prevent mold growth on cheese, follow these tips:
- Store cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Keep cheese wrapped in its original packaging or wax paper.
- Avoid exposing cheese to moisture or condensation.
- Consume cheese within a reasonable timeframe.
Cheese Crystals vs. Mold: A Summary
| Feature | Cheese Crystals | Mold |
| — | — | — |
| Appearance | White or yellowish-white specks | Fuzzy or cottony growth |
| Texture | Hard and gritty | Soft and fuzzy |
| Color | White or yellowish-white | White, blue, green, or black |
| Odor | Odorless | May have an unpleasant odor |
| Location | Anywhere in the cheese | Typically on the surface |
| Safety | Safe to eat | Harmful to health |
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Can I cut off mold from cheese and still eat it?
Yes, if mold is only present on the surface of the cheese, you can cut off at least 1 inch around the moldy area and consume the rest of the cheese. However, it’s important to note that mold can penetrate deep into the cheese, so it’s safer to discard the entire block if mold is present throughout.
2. How long can I store cheese with crystals?
Cheese crystals are a sign of well-aged cheese, so they do not affect the shelf life of the cheese. As long as the cheese is properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can be enjoyed for several months.
3. Can I prevent cheese crystals from forming?
While cheese crystals are a natural part of the aging process, you can reduce their formation by controlling the moisture content of the cheese. Store cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent moisture loss and the formation of cheese crystals.
