Why does parmesan cheese mold?

Here's a breakdown:

* Moisture: Parmesan cheese has a relatively high moisture content, even though it's considered a hard cheese. This moisture provides a suitable environment for mold spores to grow.

* Spores: Mold spores are everywhere in the air. They're microscopic and can easily land on cheese surfaces.

* Conditions: Mold thrives in warm, humid environments. While the rind of a Parmesan cheese is meant to be a bit moldy, if the entire cheese is covered in mold, it likely means the cheese wasn't stored correctly.

Why mold is sometimes desirable on Parmesan:

* Rind: The outer rind of a Parmesan cheese is traditionally allowed to develop a layer of mold. This mold is beneficial because it helps protect the cheese from other unwanted molds and bacteria.

* Flavor: Some mold growth can even contribute to the complex flavor profile of aged Parmesan.

When mold is a problem:

* Unwanted growth: If mold grows beyond the rind or appears on the inside of the cheese, it indicates spoilage. This mold can be harmful to consume.

* Safety: Mold can produce toxins that can make you sick.

Preventing mold on Parmesan:

* Proper storage: Store Parmesan in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper. This helps keep the cheese dry and reduces the chance of mold growth.

* Avoid cross-contamination: Don't store Parmesan near other foods that might have mold.

* Inspect regularly: Check your Parmesan cheese regularly for signs of mold.

If you see mold on your Parmesan, it's best to discard the entire cheese to be safe.