Storing food properly is essential to maintaining its quality and safety, but some items just don’t belong in the chilly confines of a refrigerator. Understanding which foods thrive in your pantry, countertop, or even in the open air is key to prolonging their freshness and taste.
Kiwiwell brought you a comprehensive list of foods that are better off outside the fridge, along with detailed explanations for each item.
28. Aged cheese
Aged cheese is a delicacy, but it should never be refrigerated. The cold temperature will damage the flavor and texture of the cheese. Store your aged cheese at room temperature and enjoy it at its best. Hard cheese is cured for up to six months. There’s no need to keep it cold after it’s cured; it can be stored just like any other cheese. Other cheeses must be refrigerated, so double-check the label to ensure that it hasn’t matured.
