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fldhkybnva Jan 21, 2013 01:58 PM

Why is my packaged cheese wet?

I had a block of Cabot Extra Sharp cheddar in the fridge which I pulled out to shred to make nachos. I opened the package and the cheese was quite wet and didn't seem to shred as well as usual. It looked and smelled fine with no hints of mold. I don't think I've noticed this with any other packaged cheese and I feel like I've eaten a good amount of the stuff. Is this just a byproduct of packaging, is it OK to use?

  1. w
    wendy.cabot Feb 14, 2013 09:01 AM

    Wendy from Cabot here. From our FAQ's: proteins in the cheese release moisture as they age in a process known as "synersis." This is typically a small amount of moisture, and it does not damage the cheese in any way, rather it allows the cheese to reach the next stage of maturity. We recommend you simply wipe off any excessive moisture, wrap the cheese in fresh plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. If you ever have questions about our products, we're super happy to help at info@cabotcheese.com!

    1 Reply
    1. re: wendy.cabot
      fldhkybnva Feb 14, 2013 10:00 AM

      Great, thank you so much! Love your products.

    2. p
      Phoebe Feb 14, 2013 08:15 AM

      I buy various Cabot cheeses when on sale for "everyday" recipes. I have found the "wetness" you described also and it's always only with 2 of their flavors. The Extra Sharp Cheddar, you mentioned...and their Chipolte cheddar. I too have always wondered why? Have found it perfectly fine to eat.

      1. Delucacheesemonger Jan 21, 2013 03:36 PM

        Generally fine to use. As a cheese sits in closed packaging and ages, some whey keeps coming out making the packaging wet.
        Happens more in Cheddars than others and is totally no worry.

        1 Reply
        1. re: Delucacheesemonger
          fldhkybnva Jan 21, 2013 08:05 PM

          Thank you, that makes perfect sense.

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