Unveiling The Stinky Truth: Why Your Cheddar Cheese Smells Like Feet

Cheddar cheese, a beloved dairy staple, can sometimes emit an unpleasant odor that resembles the aroma of feet. This peculiar smell can be off-putting and raise concerns about the safety and quality of the cheese. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind this unusual odor and provide practical solutions to prevent it.

Causes of the Foot-Like Smell

1. Presence of Brevibacterium Linens:

Cheddar cheese is often inoculated with Brevibacterium linens, a type of bacteria that contributes to its characteristic orange-red rind and flavor. However, this bacteria can also produce volatile compounds that are responsible for the foot-like odor.

2. High Moisture Content:

Cheddar cheese with a high moisture content provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. The moisture allows the bacteria to multiply and produce more of the odor-causing compounds.

3. Improper Storage:

Cheddar cheese should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent the growth of bacteria. Exposure to heat or humidity can accelerate the production of odor-causing compounds.

4. Contamination:

If the cheese has been contaminated with other bacteria or molds, it can develop an unpleasant odor, including a foot-like smell.

Solutions to Prevent the Odor

1. Choose Well-Aged Cheddar:

As cheddar cheese ages, the bacteria responsible for the foot-like odor gradually die off. Opting for well-aged cheddar cheese can reduce the likelihood of encountering the unpleasant smell.

2. Proper Storage:

Store cheddar cheese in a cool, dry place (ideally between 35-40°F). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.

3. Sanitize Equipment:

If you are making cheddar cheese at home, ensure that all equipment used, including knives and utensils, is thoroughly sanitized before and after use. This will prevent the introduction of unwanted bacteria.

4. Consider Pasteurization:

Pasteurization is a process that kills bacteria in milk. Pasteurizing the milk used to make cheddar cheese can reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and the subsequent development of an unpleasant odor.

Is the Smell Harmful?

In most cases, the foot-like odor in cheddar cheese is not harmful. However, if the cheese has developed an unpleasant odor accompanied by other signs of spoilage, such as mold growth or a slimy texture, it is best to discard it.

Takeaways: Unraveling the Mystery

The foot-like odor in cheddar cheese is primarily caused by the presence of Brevibacterium linens bacteria and high moisture content. Proper storage, choosing well-aged cheese, and preventing contamination can effectively mitigate the issue. If the odor persists or is accompanied by other signs of spoilage, discard the cheese for safety reasons.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Why does my cheddar cheese smell like feet after opening?

Answer: Exposure to air can introduce bacteria that produce odor-causing compounds.

2. Can I eat cheddar cheese that smells like feet?

Answer: If the odor is mild and there are no other signs of spoilage, it is generally safe to eat. However, if the smell is strong or accompanied by other issues, discard the cheese.

3. How can I prevent my cheddar cheese from smelling like feet?

Answer: Store it properly, choose well-aged cheese, and sanitize equipment when making it at home.