How do you know if cheese is off?

Here's how to tell if cheese is off, focusing on signs that go beyond just the "smell test":

Visual Clues:

* Mold: While some cheeses are meant to have mold (like blue cheese), mold on other types is a sign of spoilage. Look for fuzzy, colored growth.

* Discoloration: Cheese should have a consistent color. Unevenness, greening, or graying can indicate spoilage.

* Slime: A slimy surface is a definite sign of spoilage.

* Bubbles: Some cheeses naturally have holes or bubbles (like Swiss), but if you see large, irregular bubbles, it could mean bacteria are present.

Smell:

* Sour or Ammoniacal Odor: This is a strong indication that the cheese is no longer safe to eat. The smell might remind you of vomit or ammonia.

Texture:

* Slimy, Sticky, or Mushy: These textures are not typical for most cheeses and indicate spoilage.

* Dry and Hard: While some cheeses naturally age to a hard, dry texture, if it's crumbly or excessively dry beyond what's expected for the type of cheese, it's likely spoiled.

Taste:

* Bitter or Sour: A strong, unpleasant taste is a clear sign that the cheese has gone bad.

Important Note:

* Moldy Cheese - The Exceptions: Some cheeses, like blue cheese, brie, and camembert, are meant to have mold. If you see mold on these types of cheeses, check that it's the correct type of mold (the mold should be evenly distributed and not fuzzy). If it's a different color or type of mold, it's best to discard it.

* When in doubt, throw it out: If you're unsure about a cheese, it's better to err on the side of caution and discard it. Eating spoiled cheese can cause food poisoning.

How to Store Cheese for Longer:

* Refrigerate: Keep cheese tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or parchment paper, or store it in an airtight container.

* Avoid Moisture: Moisture can encourage mold growth, so make sure your cheese is completely dry before wrapping it.

* Separate Cheeses: Different cheeses have different aromas and flavors, and storing them together can result in cross-contamination.