What Is the Smelliest Cheese in the World?

What Cheese Smells the Worst?

Cheese is a delicious and nutritious food that has been enjoyed by humans for centuries. But not all cheeses are created equal. Some cheeses have a very strong smell, which can be off-putting to some people. So, what cheese smells the worst?

In this article, we will explore the different factors that contribute to a cheese’s smell, and we will take a closer look at some of the cheeses that are known for their pungent aroma. We will also discuss whether or not a cheese’s smell is actually an indicator of its quality.

So, if you’re curious about the worst-smelling cheeses in the world, read on!

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Cheese Smell Notes
Limburger Strong, pungent, and ammonia-like Often described as the smelliest cheese in the world.
poisses de Bourgogne Sharp, earthy, and pungent Known for its runny, creamy texture and strong smell.
Stilton Sharp, earthy, and mushroomy One of the most popular blue cheeses in the world.
Munster Sharp, tangy, and slightly sweet A semi-soft cheese with a rind that is washed in brine.

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Cheese is a dairy product that is made by coagulating milk proteins into a semi-solid form. The coagulation process is usually done with the help of an enzyme called rennet, which is derived from the stomach of calves. Once the milk has been coagulated, it is cut into small pieces and heated gently until the curds form. The curds are then salted and pressed into molds, where they are left to age for a period of time.

The length of time that a cheese is aged can vary significantly, from a few weeks to several years. The aging process plays a major role in determining the final flavor and texture of the cheese. During aging, the cheese undergoes a complex series of chemical reactions that produce a variety of aromatic compounds. These compounds are responsible for the characteristic smell of cheese.

Some cheeses are known for their strong smell, while others are relatively mild. The intensity of the smell of a cheese is often determined by the type of milk used, the rennet used, the aging process, and the storage conditions.

In this article, we will discuss the factors that affect cheese smell and explore some of the most smelly cheeses in the world.

Factors that Affect Cheese Smell

There are a number of factors that can affect the smell of cheese. These include:

  • Type of Milk – The type of milk used to make cheese can have a significant impact on its smell. For example, goat cheese typically has a stronger smell than cow’s milk cheese. This is because goat milk contains higher levels of fatty acids and proteins, which contribute to the cheese’s characteristic aroma.
  • Rennet – The rennet used to make cheese can also affect its smell. Rennet is an enzyme that helps to coagulate milk proteins into curds, and different types of rennet can produce different smells. For example, animal rennet is typically used to make hard cheeses, while vegetable rennet is often used to make soft cheeses.
  • Ageing – The longer a cheese is aged, the stronger its smell will become. This is because the cheese undergoes a process of fermentation during ageing, which produces a variety of aromatic compounds. These compounds are responsible for the characteristic smell of aged cheeses.
  • Storage Conditions – The way a cheese is stored can also affect its smell. For example, cheeses that are stored in a humid environment will tend to have a stronger smell than those that are stored in a dry environment.

The Most Smelly Cheeses

There are a number of cheeses that are known for their strong smell. Some of the most smelly cheeses include:

  • Limburger – Limburger cheese is a type of washed-rind cheese that is known for its strong smell. The cheese is washed with a brine solution during its ageing process, which helps to develop its characteristic aroma.
  • poisses de Bourgogne – poisses de Bourgogne is another type of washed-rind cheese that is known for its strong smell. The cheese is washed with a mixture of brandy and white wine during its ageing process, which helps to give it its distinctive flavor.
  • Taleggio – Taleggio is a semi-soft cheese that is made from cow’s milk. The cheese has a natural rind that is covered in a white mold, which gives it a slightly pungent smell.
  • Munster – Munster is a semi-soft cheese that is made from cow’s milk. The cheese has a natural rind that is covered in a red mold, which gives it a distinctive smell.

These are just a few of the many smelly cheeses that are available. If you are looking for a cheese with a strong flavor and aroma, then one of these cheeses may be a good option for you.

The smell of cheese is a complex and fascinating subject. There are a number of factors that can affect the smell of cheese, including the type of milk used, the rennet used, the aging process, and the storage conditions. Some cheeses are known for their strong smell, while others are relatively mild. If you are looking for a cheese with a strong flavor and aroma, then one of the smelly cheeses listed in this article may be a good option for you.

What Cheese Smells The Worst?

There is no one definitive answer to this question, as different people have different preferences when it comes to the smell of cheese. However, there are a few cheeses that are known for their strong, pungent smell, including:

  • Limburger cheese is a washed-rind cheese that is produced in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. It has a strong, ammonia-like smell that is often described as being similar to feet.
  • poisses cheese is a French cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a strong, pungent smell that is often described as being similar to a barnyard.
  • Taleggio cheese is an Italian cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a strong, earthy smell that is often described as being similar to mushrooms.
  • Munster cheese is a French cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a strong, pungent smell that is often described as being similar to a wet dog.
  • Goat cheese can have a strong, goaty smell that is often described as being similar to barnyard animals.

It is important to note that the smell of cheese is not necessarily an indication of its quality. In fact, some of the most expensive and sought-after cheeses in the world have a very strong smell.

Why Some People Like Smelly Cheese

There are a few reasons why some people enjoy the smell of smelly cheese.

  • Cultural Differences – The perception of smell is subjective, and what one person finds to be smelly, another person may find to be delicious. In some cultures, smelly cheeses are considered to be a delicacy.
  • Acidity – The acidity of a cheese can also contribute to its smell. Cheeses that are high in acidity tend to have a more pungent smell than those that are low in acidity.
  • Fat Content – The fat content of a cheese can also affect its smell. Cheeses that are high in fat tend to have a richer, more complex smell than those that are low in fat.

Health Benefits of Smelly Cheese

Some smelly cheeses are actually good for your health.

  • Antioxidants – Some smelly cheeses are a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
  • Probiotics – Some smelly cheeses contain probiotics, which are live bacteria that can help to improve digestion and gut health.
  • Calcium – Some smelly cheeses are a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
  • Protein – Some smelly cheeses are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.

Of course, it is important to moderation when eating any type of cheese, as too much of anything can be bad for you. However, if you enjoy the smell of smelly cheese, there are definitely some health benefits to be had from eating it in moderation.

There is no one definitive answer to the question of what cheese smells the worst. However, there are a few cheeses that are known for their strong, pungent smell, including Limburger, poisses, Taleggio, Munster, and goat cheese.

While some people may find the smell of these cheeses to be off-putting, others enjoy it. There are a few reasons why some people enjoy the smell of smelly cheese, including cultural differences, acidity, and fat content.

In addition to being delicious, some smelly cheeses are also good for your health. They are a good source of antioxidants, probiotics, calcium, and protein.

Of course, it is important to moderation when eating any type of cheese, as too much of anything can be bad for you. However, if you enjoy the smell of smelly cheese, there are definitely some health benefits to be had from eating it in moderation.

What cheese smells the worst?

There is no one definitive answer to this question, as different people have different tolerances for strong smells. However, some of the cheeses that are often considered to be the smelliest include:

  • Limburger cheese is a semi-soft cheese that is produced in Belgium and France. It has a strong, pungent smell that is often described as being similar to feet or body odor.
  • Epoisses cheese is a French cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a strong, ammonia-like smell that is often compared to barnyard animals.
  • Taleggio cheese is an Italian cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a strong, earthy smell that is often described as being similar to mushrooms or wet dog.
  • Vieux Boulogne cheese is a French cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a strong, pungent smell that is often described as being similar to ammonia or rotten cabbage.

Why does cheese smell so bad?

There are a few reasons why cheese can smell so bad.

  • The fermentation process. Cheese is made by fermenting milk, which is a natural process that produces a variety of compounds, including acids, alcohols, and esters. These compounds can give cheese its characteristic flavor and aroma, but they can also contribute to its strong smell.
  • The aging process. As cheese ages, it undergoes a process called proteolysis, which is the breakdown of proteins into smaller molecules. This process can also produce compounds that contribute to the cheese’s smell.
  • The type of milk used. The type of milk used to make cheese can also affect its smell. For example, cheeses made from goat’s milk tend to be more pungent than those made from cow’s milk.
  • The addition of herbs or spices. Some cheeses are flavored with herbs or spices, which can also contribute to their smell.

Is it safe to eat cheese that smells bad?

In general, it is safe to eat cheese that smells bad. However, there are a few exceptions.

  • If the cheese has a strong, ammonia-like smell, it is likely to be spoiled and should not be eaten.
  • If the cheese has a sharp, vinegary smell, it is also likely to be spoiled and should not be eaten.
  • If the cheese has a slimy or moldy appearance, it is definitely spoiled and should not be eaten.

If you are unsure whether a cheese is safe to eat, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.

How can I reduce the smell of cheese?

There are a few things you can do to reduce the smell of cheese.

  • Store cheese in an airtight container. This will help to keep the smell from spreading.
  • Refrigerate cheese. This will slow down the aging process and help to reduce the production of compounds that contribute to the cheese’s smell.
  • Serve cheese with other foods that have strong flavors. This can help to mask the cheese’s smell.
  • Cut off the rind of the cheese. The rind is the part of the cheese that is responsible for most of the smell.

What are some other strong-smelling foods?

In addition to cheese, there are a number of other foods that have a strong smell. These include:

  • Fish
  • Meat
  • Garlic
  • Onions
  • Mushrooms
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Sauerkraut
  • Kimchi

These foods are all rich in sulfur compounds, which are responsible for their strong smell.

Is there anything I can do to make my cheese smell better?

There are a few things you can do to make your cheese smell better.

  • Age the cheese for a longer period of time. This will allow the cheese to develop more complex flavors and aromas, which will help to mask the strong smell.
  • Serve the cheese with other foods that have strong flavors. This can help to balance out the cheese’s smell.
  • Cut off the rind of the cheese. The rind is the part of the cheese that is responsible for most of the smell.
  • Try a different type of cheese. There are many different types of cheese available, so you may be able to find one that has a milder smell.

    there is no one definitive answer to the question of what cheese smells the worst. However, the cheeses listed in this article are all known for their strong, pungent aromas. Whether you love them or hate them, these cheeses are sure to make an impression.

If you are looking for a cheese with a strong smell, the following are some good options to consider:

  • Limburger: This cheese is known for its pungent, ammonia-like smell. It is made from cow’s milk and is typically aged for several months.
  • poisses de Bourgogne: This French cheese is also known for its strong smell. It is made from cow’s milk and is aged for at least four weeks.
  • Munster: This Swiss cheese is another good option for those who enjoy strong-smelling cheeses. It is made from cow’s milk and is aged for at least two months.
  • Pecorino Romano: This Italian cheese is made from sheep’s milk and is aged for at least six months. It has a sharp, salty flavor and a strong smell.

If you are not a fan of strong-smelling cheeses, there are plenty of other options available that are milder in flavor and aroma. Be sure to do your research before you buy, so you can find a cheese that you enjoy.

Author Profile

Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.

Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.

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