Wax on cheese: The role of ProCera® cheese wax in cheese preservation and quality
Why use wax on cheese?
Waxing cheese serves several vital functions in the production and storage of cheese, particularly hard and semi-hard varieties like Gouda, Cheddar, and Edam. Applying wax on cheese creates a controlled environment that allows the cheese to mature while being protected from external factors. The benefits include:
- Preservation of texture and flavor: Wax seals in the cheese’s natural moisture and prevents it from drying out, which helps maintain the intended flavor and texture.
- Protection against mold and contaminants: The wax layer acts as a physical shield, keeping the cheese safe from mold and other contaminants during aging.
- Extended shelf life: By controlling the aging environment, waxing helps extend the shelf life of the cheese, making it suitable for storage and transport over long distances.
The ProCera® cheese wax range
Procudan’s ProCera® cheese wax line is designed to meet the diverse needs of cheese producers, offering advanced protection. Each ProCera® product is crafted to ensure ease of use, reliable protection, and customizable options for branding.
ProCera® Natural: A fossil-free solution
ProCera® Natural is a new 100% fossil-free cheese wax. Made entirely from natural ingredients, including beeswax, ProCera® Natural is the choice for producers looking to adopt a natural approach without compromising on performance. This natural wax option aligns with consumer demand for natural products and supports producers' desire for natural packaging for their natural cheeses.
ProCera® traditional range
For producers seeking reliable performance with a more traditional wax, ProCera® offers a range of waxes derived from oil-based products that are processed to meet strict food contact standards. Importantly, no synthetic plastic polymers are used in the ProCera® cheese wax formula. Instead, ProCera® traditional waxes use only biologically-sourced materials, ensuring food safety and quality.
ProCera® Colour and ProCera® Finish for branding
ProCera® Colour and ProCera® Finish are ideal for creating visually distinctive products. ProCera® Colour allows producers to add unique shades to their cheese coatings, enhancing brand identity and market appeal. ProCera® Finish provides a clear, glossy layer that gives cheese a polished appearance, ideal for display and sale.
How to apply wax on cheese with ProCera®
Applying ProCera® cheese wax is straightforward and suitable for various types of cheese production, from small batches to industrial processes. Here are the basic steps:
- Prepare the cheese: Ensure the cheese surface is clean and dry. Some cheese types may benefit from forming a natural rind before waxing.
- Melt the wax: ProCera® cheese wax can be melted in a boiler to the recommended temperature, depending on application, to ensure smooth application.
- Apply the wax: Cheese can be waxed by different methods depending on the production setup.
- Cool and store: Allow the waxed cheese to cool and harden at room temperature or refrigerate directly. Store in a cool, dry place to continue aging.
Conclusion
Wax on cheese is more than just a protective layer; it’s an essential tool in ensuring the quality, flavor, and appearance of cheese. Procudan’s ProCera® cheese wax line provides a versatile and high-quality solution for cheese producers, with options that cater to both traditional needs and modern natural demands. Whether opting for the ProCera® Natural or the traditional ProCera® wax range, producers can be confident that their cheese is protected, visually appealing, and aligned with the highest standards of food safety.
Discover the full potential of ProCera® cheese wax for your cheese production. Contact us today to learn how our solutions can enhance your products’ quality and apperance.