How Do You Store Rennet?

“I recently started making artisanal cheese at home and bought some rennet, but I’m not sure how to store it properly to keep it effective for the longest time. Can you provide some guidance on how to store rennet to maintain its potency? I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, USA.” Thanks, Emma, Asheville, USA.

How Do You Store Rennet?

Hey Emma, great to hear you’re diving into the art of cheese making! Rennet is a crucial component you’ll need, and storing it correctly can make all the difference in your cheese’s quality. Let’s get into the details of how to properly store different types of rennet to ensure it retains its effectiveness.

Types of Rennet

First, it’s important to know that there are different types of rennet, and each type has specific storage requirements:

1. Liquid Rennet: This is the most common form used by home cheese makers. It can be animal-based or vegetable-based.
2. Tablet Rennet: This is convenient because it has a longer shelf life compared to liquid rennet.
3. Powdered Rennet: Commonly used in industrial settings and can be harder to find for home use.

Where to Store Rennet

The storage location of your rennet is critical for maintaining its potency. Here’s what you need to know about each type:

Liquid Rennet

Since you’ve probably got liquid rennet, Emma, this needs some TLC:

• Store it in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature range is between 35°F and 45°F (1.7°C to 7.2°C).
• Keep liquid rennet in an airtight container to prevent contamination and absorption of other odors.
• Once opened, use it within 6-8 months for best results. Unopened, it can last up to a year if kept cold.

This method slows the degradation enzymes undergo, keeping your rennet effective for longer.

Tablet Rennet

Tablet rennet is more forgiving when it comes to storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place.
• Tablets should remain in their original packaging until you’re ready to use them.
• Freezing tablet rennet is an option, and it can extend the shelf life significantly. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before using.

Tablet rennet can maintain its effectiveness for up to a year, making it a practical choice for sporadic cheese makers.

Powdered Rennet

This is the most stable form of rennet and ideal for long-term storage:

• Like tablet rennet, store it in a cool, dry place.
• Keep it in a sealed container to prevent moisture absorption.
• Freezing can extend its potency even further, with very little risk of degradation.

Powdered rennet, when stored correctly, can stay effective for over a year.

Signs Your Rennet Has Gone Bad

Even with the best storage practices, rennet can eventually lose its strength. Here are some signs to watch for:

• Your cheese fails to set, or the curd is weak and watery.
• The smell of the rennet becomes off or unusual. Rennet should have a clean, slightly sweet smell.
• Discoloration or cloudiness in liquid rennet.

If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to invest in a fresh supply.

Why Proper Storage Is Important

The effectiveness of rennet is vital for cheese making because it’s responsible for coagulating the milk, forming curds. Improper storage can lead to weak rennet, which results in poor curd formation. This affects the texture and ultimately the quality of your cheese. Imagine spending hours on a beautiful batch of fromage blanc or cheddar only to have it ruined by ineffective rennet – it’s a cheesemaker’s nightmare!

Troubleshooting Rennet Storage Problems

So, let’s say you’ve kept your rennet in the fridge but you’re still experiencing issues. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• Double-check the temperature of your fridge. Sometimes the settings can be off, especially in older models.
• Use a clean container. Any contamination can introduce bacteria that spoil the rennet.
• Make sure it’s not exposed to light. Some rennets are light-sensitive and can degrade faster if left in clear containers.

Also, Emma, keep in mind that fresh rennet is always preferable, especially when you’re aiming for high-quality cheese. While it’s good to stretch the lifespan, having a fresh batch periodically will ensure you’re always working with the best possible product.

Final Thoughts…

Emma, proper storage of rennet is like giving your cheese the best start in life. From keeping liquid rennet cool to safeguarding tablet and powdered forms in dry conditions, these steps ensure that your cheese will always turn out as delicious as you intend. Thanks for asking and happy cheese making down in Asheville!

Whenever you’re enjoying a slice of your own handcrafted cheese, you’ll know that the care taken in every ingredient, including the rennet, contributes to that rich, fulfilling taste. So, keep an eye on that rennet and continue exploring the wonderful world of cheese making!