Five tips for choosing cheese wax

1st tip: Match the properties of the wax with the type of cheese
When choosing a cheese wax, it is important to consider the structure, texture and maturation process of the cheese. The dairies know the cheese's unique conditions and production methods best, so it can be difficult to make general guidelines based on cheese type alone.
Some cheeses need waxes that protect well against moisture loss and damage during storage, while others may benefit from natural or colourless waxes that highlight authenticity and craftsmanship. Wax colours can also be used strategically - strong and unconventional colours can attract attention and set the product apart in the market.
By adapting the properties of the wax to the needs of the cheese, you can both ensure high quality and create a strong visual expression.
- It is vital to choose a cheese wax that carefully matches the type of cheese. At Procudan, we work closely with dairy professionals to ensure that the wax supports the traditional craft of cheese making. The right wax contributes to both durability and quality - and gives the cheese optimal conditions, says Maja Duelund, Product Manager for cheese wax at Procudan.
2nd tip: Choose wax based on the cheese's storage needs
Storage conditions have a major impact on which cheese wax best supports the cheese.
- Long storage times require a wax with the right permeability that effectively protects against moisture loss, microorganisms and temperature variations.
- Shorter storage times require a flexible wax that protects without inhibiting the natural maturation and development of the cheese.
A Swedish producer of long-aged cheeses uses a ProCera® wax with high elasticity and a tight seal, which helps retain moisture and ensures consistent quality, even after several months of storage.
3rd tip: Focus on the visual potential of the wax
Cheese wax is more than a practical packaging that ensures the right conditions for maturation and production. Colour and design can be used to create recognisability and stand out on the cold counter, making the wax an integral part of the cheese story.
Strong colours such as red, yellow or black signal quality and professionalism. A flat wax emphasises authenticity, while a shiny wax can signal exclusivity.
A British dairy manufacturer wanted to create a strong visual brand and chose a striking black ProCera® wax. The shiny black colour is an important part of the cheese's branding and contributes to increased visibility and sales.
4th tip: Create the connection between wax and production
A high-quality cheese wax is a prerequisite for efficient production, but the interaction between the wax and the processes used by the cheese makers is crucial. Factors such as temperature, application method and drying times play a major role in the final result.
Therefore, we always work closely with customers to select or develop the right wax and help adjust production processes, so that the wax and process work optimally together.
- A good wax is not always enough. To ensure stable and efficient production, we work with our customers to understand how their processes affect the outcome. Together, we adjust both wax and production conditions to best support each other, Maja Duelund, Product Manager for cheese wax at Procudan explains.
Maja Duelund, Product Manager for ProCera® cheese wax, left, with Carsten L. Christensen, Sales Manager for ProCera® cheese wax, right.
5th tip: Seek expert advice
Although there is a lot you can research and test yourself, guidance can make a big difference. Different cheeses and production conditions often have unique requirements that require a customised solution.
At Procudan, we offer personalised consulting based on years of experience. We are at hand to help you identify the right wax to match your production, design wishes and cheese requirements.
Please contact us to learn more about how we can work together to find the right solution for your business.