Understanding the Nature and Production of Parmesan

The Origins and Processing of Parmesan Cheese

The conception of Parmesan cheese, properly known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, dates back to the Middle Ages in Italy's Parma region. The detailed and stringent production process of this cheese lends it with a distinctive flavor and texture that is incomparable to any other kind of cheese. Parmesan cheese is the product of a unique blend of cow's milk, rennet, and salt fermented and matured through an aging process lasting a minimum of 12 months, but they can be aged up to 36 months for a richer and more developed flavor.

The Characteristics and Applications of Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is renowned for its hard texture, golden hue, and savory, nutty flavor. These attributes make Parmesan an exceptional ingredient for a variety of dishes — from pasta, risotto, and soup, to salad and pizza. Moreover, Parmesan is a versatile stand-alone food item that can be relished as is or as an accompaniment for wine or fruits. Its high nutritional content — rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals — makes it a healthy addition to meals.

Proper Storage of Parmesan Cheese

The correct storage methods for Parmesan cheese significantly influence its quality, characteristics, and consequently, its shelf-life. Ideally, Parmesan cheese should be kept in the middle or lower section of the refrigerator where the temperature is consistently cool, but not freezing. The cheese should be wrapped in wax or parchment paper, then loosely covered with a plastic wrap to permit airflow and avoid excess moisture.

How Long Does Parmesan Last in the Fridge?

Freshly Grated Versus Packaged Grated Parmesan

Once Parmesan cheese has been grated, its shelf life shortens due to increased surface area exposure which accelerates oxidation and moisture loss. Freshly grated Parmesan can last in the fridge for about a week. Pre-packaged grated Parmesan, on the other hand, contains anti-caking agents and preservatives, allowing it to survive in the fridge for months, provided it is stored appropriately and not contaminated.

Whole Parmesan Cheese and Refrigeration

When stored properly, a whole block of Parmesan cheese can last up to several months in the refrigerator, provided that it has not been contaminated. Crucially though, as time passes, even if the cheese doesn't mold or smell off, it can dry out, leading to a change in both its texture and taste. The optimal duration for refrigerated Parmesan cheese is up to six weeks after opening, to maintain its best quality.

Checking for Spoilage

Although Parmesan is a hard cheese with a long shelf life, it is still essential to regularly check for signs of spoilage. These may include the presence of mold — blue, green, black, or white — off smell, or an excessively hard texture. Discarding the cheese immediately upon detection of these signs is recommended to ensure food safety.

Maximizing the Shelf Life of Parmesan Cheese

Best Practices for Storing Parmesan

There are several key practices that can maximize the freshness and shelf life of Parmesan cheese. Wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper, creating the ideal environment to retard spoilage while maintaining its quality. Store it in a consistently cool, non-freezing part of the refrigerator to ensure it can remain fresh for weeks.

Foodsavers and Vacuum Sealing

Another excellent way of extending the shelf life of Parmesan cheese while conserving its quality is by using a vacuum sealer. Vacuum sealing helps reduce exposure to air and moisture, key contributors to accelerated spoilage in Parmesan cheese. Providing the cheese with an air-tight, protective layer prolongs its freshness and delays the onset of dryness, thus conserving its original texture and taste for a longer period.

Freezing Parmesan Cheese

Although refrigeration is the recommended method for storing Parmesan cheese, freezing is a viable option for extending its shelf life further. It is, however, critical to note that freezing can alter the texture of the cheese, making it crumbly and less ideal for certain uses. It is generally recommended to grate the cheese prior to freezing and then use it directly from the freezer in cooked dishes.