How to Care for Jarlsberg Cheese

Nothing turns off your appetite to cheese like a moldy slice of Jarlsberg with fuzz-filled holes. How you care for your cheese impacts how long it stays fresh. When you store Jarlsberg, a semi-firm type of Swiss cheese with holes, you must start out by selecting a package of cheese that is not due to expire soon. A longer shelf life per the expiration date gives you more time to enjoy your Jarlsberg.

Things You'll Need

  • Wax paper
  • Plastic wrap
  • Airtight container

Instructions

  1. Unwrap your Jarlsberg just before you are ready to eat it. According to Chef's Best, Jarlsberg cheese has a relatively short shelf life in comparison to other types of cheeses. Once you open a package of Jarlsberg from its original wrapper, it only lasts approximately 10 days in the refrigerator.

  2. Wrap leftover Jarlsberg in wax paper. Then, wrap it up in plastic wrap to double-seal it. Store the Jarlsberg inside the deli drawer of your refrigerator. If you do not have a deli drawer, place the cheese inside of an airtight container.

  3. Freeze the Jarlsberg if you do not intend to use it in the near future. When it comes to freezing cheese, the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board recommends slicing the cheese into pieces that are 1 lb. or less, and then wrapping them up individually with wax paper and plastic wrap.

  4. Thaw frozen Jarlsberg in the refrigerator after removing it from the freezer. Allow it to defrost overnight.