Are you a fan of blue cheese?
Do you find yourself wondering just how much of it you can safely consume?
Look no further, because we’ve got the answers for you.
From the benefits of calcium and protein to the potential risks of spoilage and high sodium content, we’ll cover everything you need to know about incorporating blue cheese into your diet.
Plus, we’ll share some delicious ways to enjoy this pungent cheese in your meals.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about how much blue cheese you can eat.
How Much Blue Cheese Can You Eat?
When it comes to blue cheese, the amount you can safely consume depends on a few factors.
Firstly, let’s talk about the benefits. Blue cheese is a great source of calcium, which helps strengthen bones and teeth. An adult should aim to consume about 30 grams of blue cheese per day, which provides approximately 150 mg of calcium. This can help improve bone density and prevent osteoporosis. Additionally, blue cheese is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
However, it’s important to note that blue cheese is high in sodium. Each ounce of blue cheese provides 391 milligrams of sodium, which can lead to higher blood pressure. Healthy adults should not have more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, so it’s important to consume blue cheese in moderation. If you have high blood pressure or are on a low-sodium diet, look for a low-sodium option or keep your overall daily sodium intake in mind.
Another potential risk of consuming blue cheese is spoilage. If you notice any signs of spoilage on your blue cheese, such as fuzzy white, green, pink, or grey spots growing on the surface or a strong odor similar to ammonia, discard it immediately. Consuming spoiled blue cheese can cause food poisoning and increase exposure to harmful mycotoxins.
If you have kidney disease, it’s important to consult a kidney specialist before eating foods high in potassium and phosphorus. Blue cheese is high in both of these minerals.
The Nutritional Benefits Of Blue Cheese
Apart from being a good source of calcium and protein, blue cheese also contains essential vitamins and minerals such as phosphorous, potassium, sodium, and vitamin A. A 1-ounce serving of blue cheese provides 10% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of calcium, 13% of the RDA of phosphorous, 2% of the RDA of potassium, 14% of the RDA of sodium, and 29% of the RDA of vitamin A.
Blue cheese also contains a compound called spermidine that has been linked to reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and delaying aging. While the exact mechanism by which spermidine achieves these benefits is not fully understood, researchers believe that it has a positive effect on cardiac muscle cells and other parts of the cardiovascular system. Additionally, blue cheese consumption has been associated with managing levels of visceral fat around the abdominal area and maintaining gut health. This is important as high levels of visceral fat have been linked to higher mortality rates.
Furthermore, blue cheese contains a beneficial fatty acid called conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer and tumors in various parts of the body. Studies have found that women who consume at least four servings of high-fat dairy per day had a 34% lower risk of colon cancer. In addition, consuming blue cheese made from grass-fed dairy can be a great source of CLA.
How Much Blue Cheese Is Safe To Consume?
The amount of blue cheese that is safe to consume varies depending on individual health factors. As mentioned earlier, an adult should aim to consume about 30 grams of blue cheese per day to benefit from its calcium and protein content. However, it’s important to keep in mind that blue cheese is high in fat, calories, and sodium.
For healthy adults, consuming a moderate amount of blue cheese as part of a balanced diet is safe. However, if you have high blood pressure or are on a low-sodium diet, it’s important to limit your intake of blue cheese or look for a low-sodium option. Additionally, individuals with kidney disease should consult a healthcare provider before consuming foods high in potassium and phosphorus, such as blue cheese.
It’s also important to be aware of the signs of spoilage when consuming blue cheese. If you notice any changes in appearance or smell, such as fuzzy white, green, pink, or grey spots growing on the surface or a strong odor similar to ammonia, discard the cheese immediately to avoid potential food poisoning.
Spoilage And Storage Of Blue Cheese
To prevent spoilage of blue cheese, it’s important to properly store it. Blue cheese can go bad if it’s not stored correctly, so it’s crucial to keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. If stored properly, blue cheese can last 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. You can also freeze blue cheese to extend its shelf life even further. Although freezing blue cheese may slightly alter its texture and appearance, it remains safe indefinitely when frozen.
Unopened blue cheese comes with a shelf life of a month up to 6 months depending on its packaging, and it usually retains quality for at least a couple of extra weeks. Once you open the package or start the wedge, finish the cheese within 3 to 4 weeks. The same applies if you buy yours fresh from the wheel.
When storing blue cheese, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For even better results, wrap the cheese first in wax or parchment paper and then cover with plastic wrap before refrigerating. Properly stored, a wedge of blue cheese will last for about 1 to 2 months in the refrigerator.
If you notice any signs of spoilage on your blue cheese, such as fuzzy white, green, pink or grey spots growing on the surface or a strong odor similar to ammonia, discard it immediately. It’s also important to note that if mold appears in a package of shredded, sliced or crumbled blue cheese, the entire package should be discarded.
To further extend the shelf life of blue cheese, you can freeze it. When freezing, place the cheese in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed. Cut the cheese into portions no larger than 1/2 pound each, and wrap tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, frozen blue cheese will maintain best quality for about 6 months but will remain safe beyond that time.
The High Sodium Content Of Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is known for its pungent smell and tangy flavor, but it’s also notorious for its high sodium content. Each ounce of blue cheese provides 391 milligrams of sodium, which is about 17% of the recommended daily intake. Consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
It’s important to keep in mind that all cheese is high in sodium, and blue cheese is no exception. The high sodium content is due to the addition of salt during the cheese-making process. Salt is added to cheese to enhance the flavor, texture, and preservation of the cheese.
If you’re watching your sodium intake, it’s important to consume blue cheese in moderation. One way to do this is by using small amounts of blue cheese as a flavor enhancer rather than consuming large amounts as a main ingredient. You can also look for low-sodium options or try making your own blue cheese at home with less salt.
Delicious Ways To Enjoy Blue Cheese In Your Meals
Blue cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy blue cheese in your meals:
1. Melt on Top of a Burger: Blue cheese adds a flavorful kick to any burger. Try crumbling and melting it on top of a juicy beef or turkey burger for a delicious twist on a classic meal.
2. Make a Dip: Whip up a quick and easy blue cheese dip by combining crumbled blue cheese with sour cream, mayonnaise, and your favorite herbs and spices. Serve with fresh veggies or chips for a perfect party appetizer.
3. Make a Dessert: Blue cheese may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when making dessert, but it can add a unique flavor to sweet treats. Try incorporating blue cheese into your next dessert recipe, such as blue cheese cheesecake or blue cheese ice cream.
4. Melt in a Grilled Cheese: Upgrade your grilled cheese sandwich by adding some crumbled blue cheese to the mix. Pair it with some sliced apples or pears for a sweet and savory combination.
5. Top a Salad: Blue cheese is a classic salad topping that adds creamy texture and bold flavor. Try adding it to your favorite salad, such as a spinach and strawberry salad or a Caesar salad.
Incorporating blue cheese into your meals can add depth and complexity to your dishes. Just remember to consume it in moderation and keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage.
