Kamil Perry
Cheese is a living thing, and like any other living organism, it can get sick and spoil. Knowing when cheese has gone bad can be tricky as each type of cheese ages and spoils differently. The three main attributes to look out for are smell, appearance, and taste. If the cheese has an \off\ smell, like spoiled milk or ammonia, it has likely gone bad. Appearance-wise, look out for mould, but note that some moulds are injected during production and are safe to eat. When it comes to taste, try a small amount of the cheese, and if it has a sour flavour, it has likely spoiled.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sight | Mould growth, discolouration, slimy or greasy texture, cracking, dry, dark areas |
| Smell | Stinkiness, ammonia smell |
| Taste | Sour, unpleasant aftertaste |
| Other | Bloated packaging |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
How to tell if your cheese has gone bad
Knowing when cheese has gone bad can be tricky, as each type of cheese ages and spoils differently. However, there are some tell-tale signs to look out for. Firstly, it is important to distinguish between voluntary and involuntary mould. Many types of cheese, such as blue cheese, Brie, and Camembert, are intentionally inoculated with mould to achieve a specific flavour or texture. This mould is carefully controlled and monitored by the cheesemaker to ensure it does not cause the cheese to spoil. In these cases, the mould is desirable and safe to eat.
However, if mould appears on a cheese that is not supposed to have mould, or if the mould is not properly controlled, it may produce spores and toxins that can make the cheese unsafe to eat. Different types of mould can cause different colours and patterns on the cheese, such as blue, red, or white spots. While some moulds on cheese are harmless, others can be toxic and potentially dangerous if consumed. Therefore, if you spot mould on a soft cheese that is not supposed to have mould, it is recommended to throw the entire cheese away.
In addition to mould, other visual indicators of spoilage include discolouration, a slimy or greasy texture, and dry, cracked areas on hard cheeses. The texture of the cheese can also be a good indicator, as any sudden or unusual changes in texture can signify spoilage. For example, soft white mould cheeses like Camembert can become slimy when they spoil due to the growth of unwanted bacteria. Hard cheeses like Cheddar can start to crack when they spoil due to changes in moisture content and the growth of bacteria.
Other senses that can help determine if cheese has gone bad are smell and taste. However, it is important to note that cheese should only be stinky if it is supposed to be stinky, and some cheeses can develop strange smells without being spoiled. If the cheese is unopened and the packaging is bloated, it may indicate that the cheese has been wrapped up too long and was unable to breathe, but this does not necessarily mean it has gone bad. If you are still unsure, you can take a small nibble of the cheese to see if it tastes sour or unpleasant. If it does, it is likely past its prime.
Swiss Cheese and Dogs: A Healthy Mix?
You may want to see also
The shelf life of different types of cheese
Cheese is a perishable food, meaning it can spoil and harbour harmful bacteria. Consuming spoiled cheese can lead to foodborne illnesses, with symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea. Therefore, it is important to know how to identify signs of spoilage.
The shelf life of cheese depends on its texture and moisture content. The harder the cheese, the longer it will last when properly stored. This is because hard cheeses have lower moisture content, which means there is less chance for bacteria to grow. Semi-hard and hard cheeses can last anywhere from two to four months unopened and properly refrigerated. Once opened, these cheeses can last about four to six weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly. Harder cheeses can last from a few months to basically forever. For example, Parmesan is often stored at room temperature in Italy without going bad.
On the other hand, softer cheeses have higher moisture content, which provides the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Soft cheeses will usually last for about a week in the fridge, but the quality and taste will be at their prime before that time is up. Soft cheeses like cottage cheese and queso blanco can go bad quite quickly, sometimes in just a few weeks. Other soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and mozzarella will last for a week or two, maybe even three if stored correctly.
To increase the shelf life of cheese, it should be kept in its original packaging until it is ready to be used. This is because cheese kept in its original packaging will last longer than cheese that has been opened. Once opened, cheese should be wrapped in parchment or cheese paper and then covered with a layer of plastic wrap. A small amount of air in the wrapping allows the cheese to breathe and maintain its texture.
Cheese Puffs: A Dog Owner's Guide to This Snack
You may want to see also
How to store cheese to extend its life
Cheese is a perishable food, meaning it can spoil and harbour harmful bacteria. Consuming spoiled cheese can lead to foodborne illnesses, with symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea. Therefore, it is important to know how to store cheese to extend its life.
Firstly, it is important to note that cheese should be stored in a cool place with good air circulation. The right humidity conditions will also reduce the risk of cracking. Cheese should be wrapped in wax or parchment paper and then stored in the vegetable crisper of the refrigerator, where the temperature is cold and stable. If you use plastic wrap or a plastic bag, it is recommended to "face" your cheese before each use by using a cheese knife to cut off a slice that has been in direct contact with the plastic and then discarding it.
Secondly, cheese should never be stored in plastic wrap as it cuts off the air supply, essentially suffocating the cheese. Plastic wrap also lets in a lot of light, which can oxidize aged cheeses and lead to a nasty, crayon-like flavour. Instead, cheese should be stored in reusable containers or wrapped in parchment paper.
Thirdly, the smaller the piece of cheese, the faster it will go bad. Therefore, it is best to buy only as much cheese as you need for the week and then buy more when you need it. Fresh cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, should be stored in the original packaging and the water should be changed every couple of days. It should be consumed within 7 to 10 days.
Finally, the lifespan of cheese varies depending on the type of cheese. Hard cheeses like Parmesan and Gouda can last for months, whereas softer cheeses like cottage cheese and queso blanco will only last a few weeks. Blue cheeses last between one to two weeks, but will technically last longer—the mould will eventually take over the whole block, which can affect the taste.
Cheese and Nachos: A Diabetic's Friend or Foe?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
What to do if you feel ill after eating cheese
If you feel ill after eating cheese, it is important to determine whether the cheese was spoiled or contaminated. Here are some things to consider:
Signs of Spoilage
Spoiled cheese can exhibit various signs, including:
- Mould growth: While some moulds on cheese are harmless or even desirable, such as those intentionally added to Stilton or Brie, other moulds can be toxic and dangerous if consumed. If you notice mould on a soft cheese that shouldn't be there, discard the entire cheese.
- Discolouration: Changes in colour can occur due to factors like oxidation or the growth of unwanted bacteria.
- Texture changes: Hard cheeses may crack due to moisture loss, while soft cheeses can become slimy.
- Off-putting smell or taste: A sour taste or unpleasant aftertaste can indicate spoilage.
Preventative Measures
To minimise the risk of consuming spoiled cheese:
- Check best-by dates: These dates indicate the period during which the producer guarantees the flavour and texture of the cheese. However, note that many aged cheeses may still be safe to eat beyond this date.
- Proper storage: Store cheese in a cool place with good air circulation and appropriate humidity. Prevent overexposure to light.
- Refrigeration: The shelf life of cheese varies, but hard cheeses can last up to six months unopened in the refrigerator, while soft cheeses like cottage cheese typically last a few weeks. Once opened, hard cheeses can last up to a month, and soft cheeses about a week.
Course of Action
If you suspect that your illness is due to spoiled or contaminated cheese, take the following steps:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to replace any fluids lost due to vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Rest and monitor your symptoms: Foodborne illnesses can vary in severity and duration. Give your body time to recover and note any persistent or worsening symptoms.
- Seek medical advice: If your symptoms are severe, prolonged, or accompanied by fever, contact your healthcare provider for guidance and potential treatment.
Cheese and Brain Health: What's the Connection?
You may want to see also
How to tell if your cheese is mouldy
It can be tricky to tell if cheese has gone bad, as it's a living thing with cultures or moulds that can die and start rotting. The key indicators that cheese has gone bad are smell, appearance, and taste.
Appearance
The appearance of mould on cheese can be both desirable and undesirable. Some types of cheese, such as Stilton or Brie, are intentionally inoculated with moulds to achieve a specific flavour or texture. However, if mould grows on cheese unintentionally, it may produce spores and toxins that can make the cheese unsafe to eat. If you spot mould that shouldn't be there, it's best to throw the whole cheese away.
Smell
Cheese should only be stinky if it's supposed to be stinky. If you smell ammonia, this may suggest that the cheese has been wrapped up too long and was unable to breathe—but it doesn't necessarily mean the cheese has gone bad.
Taste
Taste is the indicator that will be a dead giveaway that your cheese is bad. If your cheese tastes sour or just has a plain unpleasant aftertaste, it's past its prime. If you're going to taste the cheese to test it, only taste a small piece.
Texture
The texture of the cheese can also be an indicator of whether or not it has gone bad. Hard cheeses like Cheddar can start to crack when they spoil due to changes in the cheese's moisture content and the growth of unwanted bacteria. Soft white mould cheeses like Camembert can become slimy when they spoil due to the growth of unwanted bacteria.
Spotting Bad Velveeta: Signs to Look Out For
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
There are three main attributes to look for when determining if your cheese has gone bad: smell, appearance, and taste. If your cheese smells sour, rancid, or like ammonia, it's likely gone bad. Visible mold on the cheese is also a sign of spoilage, but some blue cheeses have blue mold that is safe to eat. If you're still unsure, try tasting a small piece of the cheese. If it has an off or sour flavor, it's likely spoiled.
The shelf life of cheese varies depending on the type of cheese and whether it's unopened or opened. Blue cheeses like Stilton, Roquefort, and Gorgonzola can last several months when unopened and properly refrigerated. Soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert have a shorter shelf life, typically lasting a few weeks to a couple of months past their "best by" date when refrigerated. Fresh cheeses like cream cheese, ricotta, and cottage cheese usually last only a few weeks past their "best by" date. Unopened Cheddar cheese can last for several months to even a year or more past its "best by" date when stored in the fridge. After opening, most soft cheeses can be safely stored in the fridge for at least 7 days, while most hard cheeses can last 3–4 weeks.
If you see spots of mold on hard cheese, you can cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the affected areas and safely eat the rest. However, it's important to note that soft cheeses and crumbled, shredded, or sliced cheeses (whether hard or soft) should be discarded if mold is present.
Cheese should typically have a characteristic smell related to its type. If it smells unusual or off, it could be a sign of spoilage. However, some cheeses are naturally pungent or stinky, so it's important to know the expected smell of your cheese.
The "best by" date on cheese is a guideline for quality rather than safety. Cheese can sometimes be safely eaten past its "best by" date, depending on factors such as the type of cheese, storage conditions, and degree of spoilage. However, it's always important to inspect your cheese thoroughly before consumption to ensure it's safe to eat.
