What Makes Cheese Smell?

Despite the smell, many people absolutely love stinky cheese, although they typically choose not to eat it in public because others hate it. In fact, feelings about stinky cheese tend to sit on the extreme ends of the spectrum. No matter which category you fall into, it doesn’t hurt to understand how cheese gets that distinctive smell.

How Washed Rinds Influence Smell

The most common category of cheese with a strong smell is those with a washed rind. To create these cheese, the rinds are bathed in a range of liquids and other edibles, that can include water, wine, salt, liquors, spices, and more. Washing the rind allows the cheese to develop its characteristic flavor and maintain moisture. It also leads to the smell as the rinds help breed brevibacterium linens, cultures that lead to the strong smell.

How Blue Cheese Gets Its Smell

Another type of cheese known for its smell is blue cheese. These cheeses are associated with high moisture and a texture that is soft and open. The curd’s airiness lets the mold grow within the cheese following exposure to oxygen. That mold growth not only adds to the flavor, but the smell as well.

Why Goat Cheese Smells

Although certainly not the strongest smelling type, goat cheese does have a distinct scent. The Geotrichum Candidum yeasts usually used to ripen them are responsible for the sulfuric odor. They can also lead to hints of a scent like citrus fruit or overripe pineapple.

How To Tell If Stinky Cheeses Are Safe

As a general rule, when buying cheeses that smell due to a washed rind, opt for one with uniform coloring. You want a cheese with a pungent smell. You should also avoid ones with too much of an ammonia smell as that can indicate it has spoiled. Most cheeses should have smooth skin that isn’t cracked, dry, tacky, sticky, or slimy, although there are a few exceptions.

Some Popular Stinky Cheeses

If you want to try a stinky cheese, but don’t know where to get started, consider limburger. This soft, melty cheese is salty and is among the most famous of the stinky cheeses. Epoisses is also incredibly popular, with a mild, creamy, and luscious combination of texture and flavor. Nicasio Square is one of the less stinky washed rind cheeses, making it a good choice for those trying out this category. The flavor is tart, buttery, and salty.