What is the shelf life of Dutch cheese and what does it depend on?

Dutch cheese is one of the most popular semi-hard varieties. It has a pleasant pronounced taste and dense consistency.

It is used for sandwiches, in a cheese plate and when creating more complex dishes. We will talk about the storage periods and conditions of Dutch cheese below.

Product Features

The term "Dutch cheese" refers to the production technology, and not a specific location on the map. A quality product is characterized by a light yellow tint and a salty or sweet taste., depending on the degree of consistency. After complete ripening, eyes are formed in it, evenly distributed throughout the entire volume.

The dense consistency that distinguishes hard and semi-hard varieties allows it to be thinly sliced ​​or grated without any problems. The fat content is 45-50%. The time required for a full ripening cycle is 60-75 days.

The crust on the product is always thin, so a polymer compound or paraffin can be used on top to ensure good storage. The shape of the cheese head can be in the form of a rectangular bar or round.

Each consumer and transport packaging is marked in accordance with the requirements of TR CU 022/2011. Requirements for Dutch and some other varieties are standardized by GOST 32260-2013.

Shelf life and storage time

The shelf life of cheese is the time during which the product fully retains its consumer qualities. After this time it is still usable.

Shelf life, in contrast to storage time, is a period of time after which the product cannot be used for its intended purpose.

The recommended shelf life for Dutch cheese is 30 days while maintaining the integrity of the original packaging. It begins to be calculated from the moment of full maturity. In some cases, the manufacturer may extend this period, but in compliance with all standards.

If the sealed packaging is broken, the time during which the product is suitable for use is reduced.. The retail outlet that cuts the cheese and packages each piece separately must mark the label with the date and time.

Such goods must be sold within 12 hours. In this case, the temperature should be within 0-6°C.

Conditions and temperature

One of the main requirements when organizing the storage of Dutch cheese is temperature and humidity. For semi-hard grade possible maintenance at temperatures from -4 to 0°C and humidity from 85 to 90%.

Conclusion

The storage of Dutch cheese must be organized taking into account all the requirements not only in the retail chain, but also at home. Only in this case will the product delight with a pleasant taste and be beneficial, enriching and diversifying the diet.

It goes well with:

• fruits,
• nuts,
• honey and white bread fried in garlic butter.

It is also used to prepare delicious fondue and potatoes with the addition of minced meat.