Product Review: Emile Henry Cheese Box
The Emile Henry Cheese Box is a ceramic storage container designed to keep your cheese fresh while adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Known for its high-quality French craftsmanship, Emile Henry offers a range of kitchen products that blend form and function. But how well does the Cheese Box perform when it comes to storing cheese? Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of using this product for cheese storage.
Advantages of the Emile Henry Cheese Box for Cheese Storage
1. Superior Moisture Control: One of the key benefits of the Emile Henry Cheese Box is its ability to regulate moisture. Made from high-fired ceramic, the Cheese Box helps maintain the ideal humidity levels needed to keep cheese fresh. The ceramic material naturally absorbs excess moisture, preventing your cheese from becoming too wet or too dry. This is particularly useful for semi-hard and hard cheeses like Gouda, Cheddar, and Manchego, which can dry out if not stored properly.
2. Durable and Non-Porous Material: The Emile Henry Cheese Box is made from durable ceramic that is resistant to scratches, stains, and odors. Unlike plastic containers, the non-porous surface of the ceramic does not absorb the strong smells of pungent cheeses, ensuring that your cheese remains fresh and flavorful without any unwanted odors lingering in the container.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Emile Henry is known for its beautiful and functional kitchenware, and the Cheese Box is no exception. The elegant design, available in various colors, adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen or dining table. The Cheese Box’s sleek, minimalist appearance makes it not just a storage solution but also an attractive serving piece for entertaining guests.
4. Versatile Storage Options: The Cheese Box is designed to accommodate various types of cheese, from small wedges to larger blocks. The lid can be inverted to serve as a base, creating a convenient surface for slicing and serving cheese directly from the container. This versatility makes the Cheese Box a practical choice for both storing and presenting your cheese.
5. Easy to Clean: The ceramic material is easy to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher. Its smooth surface ensures that any cheese residue is easily removed, keeping your Cheese Box hygienic and ready for the next use. This ease of cleaning is particularly important when storing multiple types of cheese, as it prevents cross-contamination of flavors.
Disadvantages of the Emile Henry Cheese Box for Cheese Storage
1. Limited Capacity: One of the main drawbacks of the Emile Henry Cheese Box is its limited storage capacity. While it is suitable for storing a few types of cheese, it may not be ideal for those with a larger cheese collection or those who purchase cheese in bulk. If you regularly store large blocks or wheels of cheese, you may find the Cheese Box’s size restrictive, requiring you to use additional storage containers.
2. Not Airtight: The Emile Henry Cheese Box is designed to maintain an ideal humidity level for cheese, but it does not provide an airtight seal. While this is beneficial for cheeses that need to breathe, it may not be ideal for very soft or fresh cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta, which require a more airtight environment to stay fresh. These types of cheeses may dry out more quickly in the Cheese Box.
3. Heavier and Less Portable: The high-fired ceramic construction, while durable, makes the Cheese Box heavier than plastic or glass alternatives. This added weight can make it less convenient to handle, especially if you need to transport your cheese storage to picnics, parties, or other events. The weight also makes the Cheese Box less portable, which may be a consideration if you frequently move your cheese storage.
4. Higher Price Point: As with many Emile Henry products, the Cheese Box comes with a higher price tag compared to more basic cheese storage solutions. While the quality, design, and functionality justify the cost for those who appreciate premium kitchenware, it may be a significant investment for those who are more budget-conscious or who only store cheese occasionally.
5. Fragility: While the ceramic material is durable, it is also more fragile than plastic or metal. There is a risk of chipping or breaking the Cheese Box if it is dropped or handled roughly. This fragility might be a concern for those who prioritize durability in their kitchen tools, especially in busy households or when storing cheese in a crowded refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
The Emile Henry Cheese Box offers a stylish and functional solution for cheese storage, particularly for those who appreciate high-quality, aesthetically pleasing kitchenware. Its superior moisture control, durable construction, and versatile design make it an excellent choice for storing semi-hard and hard cheeses. However, the limited capacity, lack of airtight sealing, and higher price point may make it less suitable for some users, particularly those with larger cheese collections or who need a more budget-friendly option.
For those who value both form and function in their kitchen accessories and are willing to invest in a premium product, the Emile Henry Cheese Box is a worthy addition to your cheese storage collection. However, if you need a more versatile or durable storage solution, you may want to explore other options that better meet your needs.
Retail price as of date of blog post: $104.94
*This review is our independent opinion and is not sponsored or paid. We do not receive compensation for any links included in this post.