CheeseForum.org » Forum

Hi!
again - newbies question.
On January 25th, I made my first Colby wheels, each about 2 pounds.
Yesterday I noticed that one of them has small cracks on the skin.

Any siggestions how can I help? Or this wheel is gone?

Hi,

Cracks during aging usually indicate the humidity is too low.  How are you storing it during aging?  A lot of people age their cheeses in plastic boxes with adjustable lids.  These are easier to maintain the proper humidity levels as you can create a micro climate.

- Jeff

Thanks, Jeff,

it seems you're right. Its very difficult to maintain RH above 70% in my cheese 'cave'.
I age my blue cheeses in plastic box as you described.  Will have to put this cheese as well in the box.

what to do with one already cracked?

Hi,

If you get it in a cave with higher humidity the cracks should heal.  There have been some examples on the board of pretty major cracks (as in the cheese split nearly in half) that have been healed. 

- Jeff

Quote from: JeffHamm on February 20, 2012, 05:31:36 PM
........ There have been some examples on the board of pretty major cracks (as in the cheese split nearly in half) that have been healed. 

- Jeff

Wow! thanks!

Hi Vina, I've also been there, for more info see our Wiki: Surface Defects, Cracks article.

thanks!
unbelievably, but my cheese seems to heeling itself!

A quick cure is to put butter or lard onto such cracks.  Glad it is healing for you!