Patrick Oconnell
Cheese sticks are a beloved snack for many, but what happens when they're left out of the fridge? The answer depends on a few factors, including the type of cheese, how long it's been left out, and the storage conditions. Soft cheeses like mozzarella, cream cheese, and goat cheese should be discarded if not refrigerated, as they can quickly spoil and become unsafe to eat. However, harder cheeses like cheddar or processed cheeses may be safe to consume if left unrefrigerated for shorter periods, but the quality may deteriorate. In any case, it's important to use your best judgment, inspect the cheese for any signs of spoilage, and avoid consuming it if there are visible moulds, liquids, or foul smells.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shelf life | At least 6-8 weeks; stays good for an extra 2-3 weeks |
| Opened package | Consume within 7 days for best quality |
| Storage | Store in the fridge |
| Reheating | Preheat oven to 350°F for refrigerated cheese sticks; 450°F for frozen cheese sticks |
| Reheating time | 5 minutes for refrigerated cheese sticks; 10-15 minutes for frozen cheese sticks |
| Calories | 77 |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 17mg |
| Sodium | 141mg |
| Potassium | 13mg |
| Vitamin A | 15IU |
| Calcium | 18mg |
| Iron | 0.3mg |
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What You'll Learn
String cheese can be stored for 2-3 weeks without refrigeration
Storing cheese sticks or string cheese without refrigeration is not recommended for food safety reasons. The U.S. Department of Health states that cheese should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. If the temperature is above 32°C, this limit reduces to one hour.
However, some sources suggest that cheese sticks can be stored without refrigeration for a few days if certain conditions are met. These conditions include keeping the temperature at 70°F or below and ensuring the cheese is in an unopened, air-sealed package.
If you are adding a cheese stick to a lunch box, it is recommended to use a separate container or freezer bag for additional protection. It is also important to ensure that the cheese is not in contact with moist foods like cut tomatoes, as this will affect its taste.
To further extend the shelf life of unopened string cheese, it can be frozen. When freezing, tightly seal the original packaging and place it in the freezer. If freezing for longer than two months, place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, string cheese will maintain its best quality for about eight months but will remain safe beyond that time.
It is important to note that the shelf life of cheese sticks and string cheese can vary depending on the type of cheese and its moisture content. Harder cheeses like Cheddar or Parmesan have lower moisture content and can sit out longer without spoiling, while softer cheeses like Brie or Camembert are more perishable.
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Seal opened cheese tightly before storing, or use a freezer bag
Properly storing cheese is essential to maintaining its freshness and quality. When it comes to storing opened cheese, it is recommended to seal it tightly before placing it back in storage. This helps prevent the cheese from drying out and maintains its flavour and shelf life.
If the original packaging is not suitable for resealing, it is advisable to transfer the cheese to a freezer bag. Ensure that as much air as possible is squeezed out before sealing the bag. This method helps to prolong the cheese's freshness by limiting its exposure to air, thereby reducing the risk of mould growth and oxidation.
Additionally, it is important to consider the type of cheese when determining the optimal storage method. Hard cheeses, such as Parmesan, can be tightly wrapped in paper and then loosely wrapped in plastic. This combination provides the necessary protection while allowing the cheese to breathe. Semi-hard to semi-soft cheeses, including cheddar, gouda, Swiss, and fontina, should be wrapped loosely in paper followed by a loose plastic wrap.
Soft ripened cheeses, such as brie, call for a slightly different approach. They should be wrapped loosely in paper and then placed in a partially sealed plastic bag or a small airtight container with a cracked lid. This balance of ventilation and enclosure ensures that the cheese can breathe while remaining protected.
By following these storage guidelines, you can effectively preserve the quality and freshness of your cheese, minimising waste and maximising enjoyment.
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Cheddar cheese sticks can be kept at room temperature for 2-48 hours
Cheddar is a hard, semi-firm cheese that has been pasteurized, which means it can last longer without refrigeration. Hard cheeses have a lower moisture content, which means they can sit out for longer without spoiling. However, if left out for too long, the fat will begin to leach out of the cheese, giving it a greasy appearance and altering its texture.
To ensure the best flavor, it is recommended to let cheese sit out at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving. However, this should be factored into the overall time limit to avoid food safety risks.
It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and specific storage instructions should be followed for each cheese variety. Proper wrapping is crucial for room-temperature cheese storage.
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Cheese sticks can be frozen and reheated in the oven
To make cheese sticks, start by dredging cheese strings in beaten egg, then coat them in a flour/cornstarch mixture, followed by another dip in the egg, and finally in breadcrumbs. This process ensures that the cheese does not leak out during cooking. Freeze the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage.
When you're ready to cook the frozen cheese sticks, preheat oil to 350°F. Fry the cheese sticks in small batches for about 2 minutes per side, being careful not to overcook them as this can cause the cheese to leak out. Serve hot with a warm pasta or marinara sauce for dipping.
To reheat frozen, pre-cooked cheese sticks in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (190°C). Place the frozen cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, top with tomato sauce and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown. Alternatively, an air fryer can be used for faster reheating. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the cheese sticks in a single layer for a few minutes until golden and sizzling.
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Soft cheese that is left out should be thrown away
Soft cheese is more perishable than hard cheese due to its higher moisture content. The U.S. Department of Health recommends that perishable food should not be left sitting out of the fridge for more than two hours. This is especially true for soft cheeses, which have a much higher risk of spoilage if left unrefrigerated beyond this time.
Soft cheeses, such as Queso Fresco, Brie, Camembert, mozzarella, cream cheese, and cottage cheese, are more delicate and creamy, made from fresh curds that have not been pressed or aged. These cheeses have a high moisture content, which makes them more susceptible to bacterial growth if left unrefrigerated. Therefore, it is recommended to consume soft cheeses within one week of opening. If soft cheese has been left out for longer than two hours, it is best to discard it, as it may no longer be safe to eat.
On the other hand, hard cheeses like Cheddar, Parmesan, and Swiss have lower moisture content and can be left out for longer periods. These cheeses are aged for longer periods and have a distinct, crumbly texture. They can typically last three to four weeks after opening when stored properly and can be safely left out of the fridge for up to two hours.
It is important to note that the safety window for cheese left out of the fridge depends on various factors, including the type of cheese, how it is made, and how fresh it is. Additionally, leaving cheese out overnight, regardless of type, can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage. Therefore, it is generally recommended to store cheese in the refrigerator to keep it safe and fresh.
To prolong the freshness of soft cheese, it is recommended to wrap it tightly in wax or parchment paper, then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. This helps to prevent the cheese from drying out while allowing it to breathe. Proper storage can help extend the shelf life of soft cheese, but it should still be consumed within one week of opening for optimal quality and safety.
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Frequently asked questions
String cheese has a long shelf life of at least 6 to 8 weeks. However, if it has been opened for 3 weeks or left unopened for 2 months past the date on the label, it is best to discard it.
String cheese should be stored in the fridge. Once opened, ensure that the package is sealed tightly before putting it back in the fridge. If this is not possible, transfer the package into a freezer bag and squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Yes, you can freeze string cheese. If you plan to do this, it is recommended to use cheese strings as they will not melt as quickly as regular cheese.
