If you’ve read our recent blog about cheese truckles, you’ll know that the wax coating not only looks beautiful, but can stop the cheese from drying out in storage. But, many of you might confuse this extra layer of protection with an increase in preservation, which actually isn’t the case. So, let’s debunk some common myths – does cheese in wax need to be refrigerated?
Yep, it does. It’s a common misconception that cheese coated in wax can be stored at room temperature, but this simply isn’t the case. Bacteria can still grow on the cheese underneath the wax, which can increase the risk of food poisoning. You must slow down the growth of bacteria by keeping your cheese in the refrigerator – at a temperature between 1°C and 5°C.
Read on to learn how long wax-coated cheese can stay out of the fridge, what the ‘danger zone’ is in bacteria growth, and how to check for signs of spoilage.
Should You Store Wax-Covered Cheese in the Fridge?
Whilst a wax coating does provide an additional layer of protection against mould growth, it does not prevent the growth of bacteria, which is why you should always refrigerate wax-covered cheese. By refrigerating, you avoid what’s known as the ‘danger zone’ – temperatures between 8°C and 63°C that excel bacteria growth.
For more tips & tricks on extending the shelf life of your cheese, take a look at our recent blog: How To Wrap & Store Your Cheese
How Long Can Cheese in Wax Stay Out Of the Fridge?
Whilst some cheesemongers say that wax cheese can be safely left out at room temperature for up to 8 hours, we’d disagree. From a food hygiene perspective, you should only leave your wax-coated cheese at room temperature for up to 4 hours. Otherwise, you risk the growth of bacteria, which could make you ill.
I would, however, recommend leaving your cheese out of the fridge for an hour before you plan to eat it. Being at room temperature allows the flavours to come to life, giving you more in-depth, robust flavours that you just don’t get when the cheese is cold.
Does Wax Extend the Shelf Life Of Cheese?
Yep, it does! Unwaxed cheese lasts anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks in the fridge, but wax-coated cheese can last up to three months (not that it lasts that long in our house!).
The wax creates a protective barrier that helps retain moisture and prevents mould growth, which slows down the aging process. However, while the wax helps preserve the cheese, it doesn’t make it immune to spoilage.
Remember, once you cut into a waxed cheese, its shelf life decreases, as the exposed interior is more vulnerable to bacteria and drying out, so make sure you eat it quickly!
I Accidentally Left Waxed Cheese Out Of the Fridge – Should I Eat it?
If you’d accidentally left your wax-coated cheese out overnight (after one too many glasses of wine, for example!), or even longer, it’s not the end of the world! If you’re serving the cheese to guests, I would err on the side of caution, and potentially discard it – you don’t want to give anyone an upset tummy.
However, if it’s just you indulging in a cheesy treat, there are a couple of ways you can check for signs of spoilage:
- Smell it – Fresh cheese should have a mild, creamy, or slightly tangy aroma (depending on the type). If it smells sour, rancid, or just “off,” it’s best to throw it away.
- Check the texture – If the cheese feels excessively slimy, overly dry, or has a strange consistency, it’s likely spoiled.
- Look for mould – While some cheeses naturally develop mould (think blue cheese), unexpected mold growth underneath the wax coating of a cheese could indicate spoilage. If mould is present on a hard cheese, you can cut off at least an inch around the affected area and still eat the rest, but for softer cheeses, it’s best to discard the whole thing.
- Taste a small piece – If the smell and texture seem normal, take a tiny bite. If the flavor seems off or overly bitter, don’t risk it.
Ultimately, cheese safety depends on factors like room temperature and how long it’s been left out. If your kitchen was particularly warm (above 21°C), bacteria growth could accelerate, making it unsafe to eat. When in doubt, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
What Types Of Cheese Are Commonly Wax-Coated?
Wax coatings are most often used on hard and semi-hard cheeses to help retain moisture and protect against mould. Some of the most common wax-covered cheeses include:
- Cheddar Truckles – Traditionally wrapped in wax to preserve the dense, crumbly texture and sharp, tangy flavor.
- Gouda – This Dutch favourite is often covered in bright red or yellow wax to lock in its creamy, nutty taste.
- Edam – Recognisable by its signature red wax coating, Edam is a mild, slightly salty cheese that stays firm even as it ages.
- Babybel (AKA, a type of Edam) – The iconic snack-sized cheese encased in a red wax shell is designed for easy, long-lasting storage.
- Paraffin-Waxed Hard Cheeses – Many aged cheeses, including some types of Parmesan and Swiss, may be waxed to slow moisture loss.
If you’d like to learn more about hard and semi-hard cheeses, and how they store compared to their soft counterparts, check out our recent blog: What Cheeses Are Hard Cheeses?
Expand Your Cheese Knowledge With Savery Grazing
We hope this article has helped clear up the myths around storing wax-coated cheese – because knowing how to store your cheese properly means enjoying it at its best for longer (and reducing unnecessary food waste!). For more articles on all-things-cheese, explore our blog, or keep up to date with us on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest.
If you’re based in Sheffield or Derbyshire, why not order a cheese platter for your next event from Savery Grazing? We source all of our produce locally, with each of our platters using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Get in touch to find out more.