Waxing Cheese For Long Term Storage

Beginner’s Guide to Waxing Hard Cheese: How to Preserve Cheese And Wax Cheese at Home

Waxing cheese is an age-old technique for preserving hard cheeses and enhancing their aging process. This guide will walk you through the basics of cheese waxing, helping you learn how to wax cheese at home and create your own delicious, long-lasting cheeses.

What is Cheese Wax and Why Wax Cheese?

Cheese wax is a specialized type of food-grade wax designed specifically for coating and preserving cheese. It plays a crucial role in the cheese aging process and helps maintain the quality of hard cheeses like cheddar.

Aspect of Cheese Wax	Description	Benefits	Practical Considerations
Composition	Blend of paraffin and other waxes, soft and pliable	Prevents cracking and crumbling	Different from pure paraffin wax
Coloring	Colored with food-grade dyes (red, yellow, black)	No effect on functionality, used for tradition or marketing	Color choice is a matter of preference
Prevention of Mold Growth	Prevents mold from growing on cheese surfaces	Beneficial for cheeses not requiring natural rind or mold	Ensures even aging and prevents off-flavors
Moisture Retention	Helps retain moisture in the cheese	Prevents drying out, maintains texture and flavor	Crucial for hard and semi-hard cheeses
Protection from Contaminants	Acts as a barrier against airborne bacteria and contaminants	Ensures safety and quality of the cheese	Important for storage and transportation
Application Process	Melt wax, dip and cool cheese, repeat for even coverage	Ensure cheese is chilled before waxing	Use double boiler or stainless bowl in simmering water
Suitable Cheeses	Hard and semi-hard cheeses (Cheddar, Gouda, Edam)	Avoid waxing softer, moister cheeses	Best for cheeses not requiring natural rind or mold

Additional Tips:

– Ensure cleanliness and proper sanitation practices during the waxing process to prevent contamination.

– Use disposable utensils and cover work surfaces to make cleanup easier.

– Avoid pouring wax down the sink drain to prevent plumbing damage.

– Wax can be reused by melting and straining it, making it a cost-effective option.

Understanding the Purpose of Cheese Wax

The primary purposes of cheese wax are:

• To create a protective barrier against mold growth
• To control moisture loss during the aging process
• To maintain the shape and texture of the cheese
• To enhance the visual appeal of the cheese

Benefits of Using Cheese Wax for Preservation

Using cheese wax offers several benefits for cheese preservation:

• Extended shelf life without refrigeration
• Protection against external contaminants
• Improved flavor development during aging
• Reduced risk of surface mold growth

How Does Waxing Help Maintain the Quality of Cheese?

Waxing helps maintain cheese quality by:

• Creating a near-zero oxygen environment, slowing oxidation
• Preventing excessive moisture loss, maintaining texture
• Protecting the cheese from light exposure
• Allowing for controlled aging conditions

How to Wax Cheese At Home

Waxing cheese at home is a rewarding process that allows you to preserve your homemade or store-bought hard cheeses. Here’s how to get started:

Issue	Troubleshooting Tips	Suggested Solutions
Air leaks during sealing	Ensure the bag is dry and debris-free. Check sealing bars for cleanliness.	Re-seal with a new bag.
Moisture trapped in bag	Pat cheese dry before sealing. Use moisture-absorbing packets.	Consider partial freezing for soft cheeses to prevent moisture.
Seal failure	Clean the sealing area, check for broken seal elements. Replace if necessary.	Adjust sealing time settings on vacuum sealer.
Bag breaks or tears	Use thicker bags. Ensure no sharp edges are on the cheese or bag.	Store cheese properly to avoid damage during storage.
Cheese spoilage after sealing	Vacuum seal only dry cheeses. Check for mold growth before sealing.	Monitor storage temperature regularly.

Choosing the Right Type of Wax for Cheese

When selecting cheese wax, consider the following options:

Step-by-Step Guide to Waxing Hard Cheese

1. Clean and dry the cheese thoroughly
2. Prepare the wax using a double boiler
3. Heat the wax to the correct temperature (usually around 200°F/93°C)
4. Dip the cheese or apply wax with a brush
5. Allow the wax to harden
6. Apply additional layers for complete coverage

Tips for Ensuring Proper Application of Cheese Wax

• Ensure the cheese is at room temperature before waxing
• Use a thermometer to monitor wax temperature
• Apply at least two layers of wax for proper protection
• Allow each layer to cool completely before applying the next
• Cover the entire surface of the cheese, including edges

Tools and Techniques for Waxing Cheese

Having the right tools and techniques is crucial for successful cheese waxing.

Tool/Technique	Description	Benefits	Practical Considerations
Double Boiler or Waxing Pot	Safely melts wax without direct heat contact	Prevents overheating and ignition	Use with thermometer for temperature control[2][3][4]
Thermometer	Monitors wax temperature (200-210°F/93-99°C)	Ensures optimal wax application	Critical for preventing overheating[2][3][4]
Cheese Wax Brush or Dipping Utensils	Natural bristle brush or dipping utensils for even application	Prevents melting of brush, ensures complete coverage	Avoid nylon brushes, use dedicated utensils[2][3][4]
Cheese Wax	Food-grade wax, blend of paraffin and microcrystalline waxes	Stronger and more pliable than pure paraffin wax	Available in various colors, reusable[2][3][5]
Protective Gear	Heat-resistant gloves, long sleeves, safety glasses	Protects against hot wax and splashes	Have a fire extinguisher nearby[3][5]
Cleaning the Cheese	Vinegar or brine wash to remove bacteria and dirt	Ensures clean surface for waxing	Use clean cloth and solution to wipe the cheese surface[3][5]
Drying the Cheese	Ensures good wax adhesion, prevents mold growth	Drying time varies based on cheese type and humidity[3][4]
Applying the Wax	Dipping or brushing method, apply multiple thin coats	Ensures complete coverage, prevents air gaps	Allow each layer to cool and harden before applying the next[2][3][4]

Additional Tips:

– Ensure the cheese is at room temperature before waxing for better wax adhesion.

– Use a dedicated cheese wax pot and brush to simplify cleanup and prevent contamination.

– Fill any air spaces or cracks with wax to prevent mold growth.

– Store waxed cheese in a cool, dry location to maintain the aging process.

Essential Equipment for Waxing Cheese

• Double boiler or waxing pot
• Thermometer
• Cheese wax brush or dipping utensils
• Wax paper or parchment paper
• Paper towels
• Protective gloves

Using a Double Boiler to Melt the Wax

A double boiler is essential for safely melting cheese wax:

1. Fill the bottom pot with water
2. Place the wax in the top pot
3. Heat gradually, stirring occasionally
4. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer
5. Maintain the wax at the correct temperature for application

Applying Cheese Wax with a Brush or Dip Method

Two primary methods for applying cheese wax:

Important Considerations When Waxing Cheese

Pay attention to these crucial factors for successful cheese waxing:

Consideration	Description	Benefits	Practical Tips
Temperature Monitoring	Use a thermometer to maintain wax temperature between 200-210°F (93-99°C)	Prevents overheating, ensures proper application	Avoid direct heat, use double boiler if necessary[1][2][4]
Cleanliness and Sanitation	Clean cheese surface with vinegar or brine wash, sanitize equipment	Prevents contamination, mold growth under wax	Use disposable utensils, cover work surfaces[1][2][5]
Preventing Mold Growth	Ensure dry cheese surface, apply thin even layers, inspect regularly	Prevents mold growth under wax	Remove wax and re-wax if mold is found[1][3][4]
Safety Precautions	Wear protective gear, avoid open flames, keep fire extinguisher nearby	Protects against hot wax and potential fires	Never leave wax unattended while heating[2][3]
Application Techniques	Choose between dipping or brushing method, apply multiple thin layers	Ensures even coverage, prevents air pockets	Allow each layer to cool and harden before applying the next[1][3][4]
Storage of Waxed Cheese	Store in cool, dry location, check periodically for cracks or mold	Maintains cheese quality, prevents mold growth	Re-wax if necessary, keep away from direct sunlight[1][4][5]
Reusing Wax	Melt, strain, and reuse wax through cheesecloth	Cost-effective, extends wax life	Strain wax to remove impurities before reusing[1][5]

Additional Tips:

– Ensure the cheese is at room temperature before waxing for better wax adhesion.

– Use dedicated pots and brushes for waxing to simplify cleanup and prevent contamination.

– Apply wax in thin, even layers to prevent air pockets and ensure complete coverage.

– Label the waxed cheese with its type and date using a piece of paper or label secured with wax.

Monitoring Temperature During Waxing Process

• Use a reliable thermometer to monitor wax temperature
• Maintain wax temperature between 200-210°F (93-99°C)
• Avoid overheating, which can cause the wax to smoke or ignite
• Allow cheese to cool between layers to prevent melting

Preventing Mold Growth Under the Wax

To prevent mold growth under the wax:

• Ensure cheese is completely dry before waxing
• Sanitize cheese surface with a vinegar wash prior to waxing
• Apply wax in thin, even layers to prevent air pockets
• Inspect cheese regularly for any signs of mold

Storing Wax Cheese

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of waxed cheese.

Storage Consideration	Description	Benefits	Practical Tips
Storage Location	Cool, dry place away from sunlight and strong odors	Maintains cheese quality, prevents degradation	Use pantry, cupboard, or dedicated cheese storage area[1][2][6]
Refrigeration	Optional but recommended for extended shelf life	Extends shelf life to 6 months to 1 year	Wrap in wax paper or plastic wrap if refrigerating[4]
Temperature Control	Ideal temperature range: 50-55°F (10-13°C)	Ensures even aging, prevents microbial growth	Avoid temperatures above 70°F (21°C)[2][6]
Humidity Levels	Moderate humidity levels around 80-85%	Prevents mold growth and drying out	Maintain consistent humidity to ensure cheese quality[2]
Handling and Turning	Turn cheese weekly, monitor for mold and wax cracking	Ensures even aging, prevents uneven moisture distribution	Remove wax and re-wax if mold is found[2][3]
Protection from Contaminants	Keep different cheeses separated, wrap in wax paper or plastic	Prevents flavor transfer and contamination	Use separate storage for different cheese types[2]
Shelf Life	Several months to 25 years depending on cheese type and storage	Extends shelf life significantly	Proper storage conditions are crucial for longevity[2][6]
Reusing Wax	Melt, strain, and reuse wax through cheesecloth	Cost-effective, extends wax life	Strain wax to remove impurities before reusing[2][3]
Safety Considerations	Avoid anaerobic conditions, follow safe food preservation practices	Prevents bacterial growth like botulism	Ensure cheese is designed for storage method used[5]

Additional Tips:

– Label the waxed cheese with its type and date using a piece of paper or label secured with wax to ensure easy identification.

– Store wax in a cool place away from high heat to maintain its quality.

– If you notice any cracks in the wax, reapply a new layer to maintain the seal.

– Always check the cheese for any signs of spoilage before consuming it, even if it has been properly stored.

Creating Proper Conditions in a Cheese Cave

A cheese cave, whether natural or artificial, should provide:

• Consistent temperature between 50-55°F (10-13°C)
• Humidity levels around 80-85%
• Good air circulation to prevent moisture buildup
• Protection from light and strong odors

Ensuring Proper Storage to Maintain Cheese Quality

To maintain the quality of your waxed cheese:

• Store in a cool, dry place if a cheese cave is not available
• Turn the cheese weekly to ensure even aging
• Monitor for any signs of mold or wax cracking
• Keep different types of cheese separated to prevent flavor transfer
• Use within the recommended shelf life for the specific cheese type

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Cheese Waxing

Waxing cheese at home is a rewarding process that allows you to extend the shelf life of your favorite hard cheeses and even experiment with aging your own creations. By following the steps and considerations outlined in this guide, you can successfully wax cheese and enjoy the benefits of this traditional preservation method.

Key takeaways for successful cheese waxing include:

• Choose the right type of wax for your cheese
• Ensure proper temperature control during the waxing process
• Apply multiple thin layers for best results
• Take precautions to prevent mold growth under the wax
• Store waxed cheese in appropriate conditions to maintain quality

Whether you’re a home cheesemaker or simply looking to preserve store-bought cheeses, waxing is a valuable skill that can enhance your cheese experience. With practice, you’ll be able to create beautifully waxed cheeses that can be enjoyed for months to come.

Remember, the process of waxing cheese is both an art and a science. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect – each cheese you wax will help you refine your technique. Happy waxing!

FAQs About Waxing Cheese

Here are some frequently asked questions about waxing cheese:

Question	Answer	Additional Information
Can I wax soft cheeses?	No, waxing is typically reserved for hard and semi-hard cheeses.	Soft cheeses require different preservation methods due to their high moisture content.
How long can I store waxed cheese?	Several months to a year or more, depending on the cheese type and storage conditions.	Hard cheeses can last from 6 months to 2 years or more when stored correctly.
Can I reuse cheese wax?	This makes it a cost-effective option for long-term cheese preservation.
Is it safe to wax store-bought cheese?

Additional Tips:

– Always use food-grade cheese wax to ensure safety and quality.

– Store waxed cheese in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

– Regularly inspect waxed cheese for any signs of mold or wax cracking.

– Label the waxed cheese with its type and date for easy identification.