What grows on old cheese?

What grows on old cheese is mold. While some molds are deliberately added to cheese during the production process for flavor and texture, others can grow naturally as cheese ages.

Here's a breakdown:

Good Mold:

* Penicillium: This type of mold is used to create blue cheeses like Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton. It gives the cheese its characteristic blue veins and pungent flavor.

* Geotrichum candidum: This mold is used to make surface-ripened cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and some types of goat cheese. It creates a soft, creamy rind and a distinct earthy flavor.

Bad Mold:

* Other molds: These molds can grow on cheese if it's not stored properly or if it's too old. They can have a fuzzy, white, green, or black appearance. These molds can make the cheese taste bad and can even be harmful to eat.

Important Note:

* Always check the cheese for signs of mold before eating.

* If you see mold on the surface of a cheese, cut away at least one inch around the moldy area.

* If the mold has grown into the cheese, it's best to throw it away.

Remember, while some molds are beneficial in cheese making, others can be harmful. Always use caution when eating cheese, especially if it's aged or has visible mold.