Some Cheese Rinds Can Be Eaten, While Others Must Be Removed

Cheese rinds are not uniform, and the type of outer layer determines whether it can remain on the product before consumption. The distinction is between rinds that form part of the cheese and external coverings that are intended to be taken off.

Natural rinds may be eaten with the cheese. They are identified in the source as one of the categories that can form part of the product, rather than as a coating that must be removed before eating.

Bloomy rinds are also included among those that may remain on the cheese. The classification applies to the rind itself and does not extend automatically to every outer layer found on a cheese product.

Some washed rinds may likewise form part of the product. The qualification “some” applies to this category, so washed rinds are not presented as a single group with one rule for every cheese.

Wax, paraffin and plastic coverings should be removed before the cheese is consumed. These materials are described as coatings rather than as rinds that may be eaten. The source therefore separates natural, bloomy and certain washed rinds from manufactured outer coverings, and advises taking the latter off before consumption.