Cheese Experts Advise Against These Supermarket Purchases

Supermarket shoppers seeking quality cheese should reconsider purchasing pre-grated varieties, individually wrapped processed slices, reduced-fat options, very mild cheddar, and inexpensive cheese selection boxes, according to cheese experts. These selections, they say, often lack the depth of flavor, desirable texture, and overall character found in higher-quality cheeses.

Leeds-based cheesemonger Stephen Fleming identifies pre-grated cheese as a top item to avoid. He notes that grating the cheese yourself is simple and avoids anti-caking ingredients like potato starch, which can affect melting properties. Pre-grated cheese also has a larger surface area, leading to quicker loss of freshness. "You’re paying someone else to grate it," Fleming stated, advising consumers to "buy a decent block and grate it yourself."

Louise Allen, a cheese expert, echoes the sentiment regarding individually wrapped processed cheese slices. While acknowledging their convenience for specific uses like burgers and sandwiches, she points out that these slices often differ significantly from traditional cheddar and lack the complex flavor profile of a well-matured cheese.

Reduced-fat cheese is another area where experts advise caution. Fleming suggests that fat is crucial for both the texture and flavor of cheese, making reduced-fat versions inherently less satisfying. He recommends consuming less of a high-quality cheese rather than opting for a lower-fat alternative.

Regarding cheddar, Allen encourages exploring more mature varieties. She explains that cheese develops deeper, nuttier, and more savory flavors through maturation, sometimes even developing crunchy crystals in traditionally made cheeses. A well-matured cheddar, she suggests, is ideal for those seeking a cheese that stands out on a cheeseboard or in a sandwich.

Summer, owner of a cheese and wine business, advises skepticism towards very cheap cheese selection boxes, especially those priced under £20. She questions the quality that can be achieved at such low price points, noting that flavor, maturity, and complexity are often compromised.

When selecting cheese, experts recommend examining the ingredients list, looking for simple components like milk, starter cultures, rennet, and salt in traditional varieties. Texture and aroma also offer clues to quality, with a mature cheddar potentially having a crumbly texture and rich, savory smell, while a ripe Brie should be soft and creamy. Provenance and how the cheese is made, including the milk source and aging process, contribute significantly to its unique character. Experts also encourage tasting before buying and looking for cheeses from named producers or those with appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) designations, which indicate production in a specific region under established standards.