Several months ago I came across Chronicle Books’ “Cheese Papers: Linen, Dots, and Flowers” at Red Pineapple in Ward Centre. “Ideal for any variety (of cheese) … these coated wrappers will help keep your cheese fresher, longer,” the package promised.
It contained three designs, with six 11-by-14-inch sheets per pattern and 44 labels — perfect for wrapping a crumbly Gorgonzola or wedge of manchego, and giving it as a gift with a bottle of wine. But, do they preserve cheese longer?
>> Does it work?: Not really. But, before I get into that, I must mention that there are different methods of storing cheese (depending on the type) and different camps (some say to use plastic wrap, and others say never use plastic wrap). Google “storing cheese” if you want to go down that rabbit hole.
To test this product, I used blocks of cheddar cheese (see picture): I wrapped one block loosely in plastic wrap, another in the paper, a third piece in the paper and then stored in a plastic container, and the last in its original packaging, placed into a zip-top bag with air removed. All were kept together in the fridge.
For the first two weeks, there was no mold. A week and a half later, I found two small spots of mold on the plastic-wrapped piece and a tiny mold spot on the block wrapped in the paper. The other pieces were fine. I forgot about them for a while, and 3-1/2 weeks later everything was moldy except the block in the original packaging and zip-top bag.
>> Pros: Nice patterns. Can be used to wrap more than just cheese. Coated paper repels moisture. Sticky labels aren’t overly girly, so they work when wrapping food gifts for either gender.
>> Cons: Doesn’t live up to its claim, at least for cheddar cheese.
>> Cost and availability: $14.95 at Red Pineapple (call ahead to be sure it’s in stock), chroniclebooks.com and amazon.com (both sites offer free shipping for orders over $25).
>> Worth it?: While I wouldn’t use these papers to store food, I would use them when making food baskets. They’d add a touch of elegance.
Got a gadget that you love? Curious about one you’d like us to test? Email crave@staradvertiser.com or write Crave, Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, Honolulu 96813.
