Hoop
The open-ended ring or mould into which curd is packed to give a cheese its shape.
Also: cheese mould, cheese form, chessel
A hoop is the band or cylinder, often without a top or bottom, that holds curd while it drains and is pressed. Old hoops were made of wood, wicker, reed or cloth bands that could be tightened; modern ones are stainless steel or food-grade plastic with drainage holes. The size and shape of the hoop decides the shape of the cheese: tall and narrow for Stilton, wide and flat for Brie, a deep drum for Parmigiano, a small basket for Bandel or topli nu paneer. Some hoops carry raised letters or patterns, which is how protected cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano and Comté receive their names stamped into the rind.