Why is my cheese fuzzy?

It's not ideal to see fuzzy cheese! It's usually a sign of mold growth, which can be a bit of a bummer. Here's why your cheese might be fuzzy:

* Mold: The most common reason. Mold thrives on moisture, so if your cheese wasn't stored properly (too humid, exposed to air), mold spores might have landed on it and started growing.

* Improper Storage: Storing cheese at room temperature or in an overly humid environment can encourage mold growth.

* Expired Cheese: If the cheese is past its expiration date, it's more likely to be fuzzy due to increased bacterial growth.

* Type of Cheese: Some cheeses, like blue cheese, intentionally have mold as part of their flavor profile. However, the mold should be distributed evenly and not fuzzy patches.

What to do:

* Check the Mold: If it's just a small amount of mold on a hard cheese like cheddar, you might be able to cut it off. However, if the cheese is soft or the mold is spread, it's best to throw it away.

* Avoid Spreading: Never eat cheese that's moldy unless it's a blue cheese variety. Mold can produce toxins, and you don't want to risk getting sick.

* Store Properly: Keep cheese wrapped in plastic wrap or cheese paper in the refrigerator. This will help prevent mold growth.

Pro Tip: If you're concerned about mold, you can try storing your cheese in the freezer. Freezing can slow down or stop mold growth, but it can also change the texture of the cheese.