Randy Chandler
Whether you're a cheese lover or just a casual snacker, it's important to know how long your cheese will last in the fridge. Soft cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar will only stay good for about one to two weeks after opening, while hard cheeses like Parmesan and Swiss have a longer lifespan of three to four weeks. Shredded cheese, specifically, can be stored in the fridge by sealing the package tightly or transferring it to an airtight container. Freezing is also an option, either in its original packaging or in a freezer-safe bag/container. The shelf life of shredded cheese depends on the type of cheese and proper storage techniques, so it's important to use your best judgment and watch out for any signs of spoilage, such as odours, discolouring, or mould.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shelf life of shredded cheese | 3-5 days |
| Shelf life of store-bought shredded cheese | Couple of days |
| Shelf life of hard cheeses like parmesan and Swiss | 1 month |
| Shelf life of soft cheese like cheddar and mozzarella | 1-2 weeks |
| Shelf life of shredded cheese in a freezer | 6 months |
| Signs of spoilage | Mold, off odor, discoloration, texture change |
| Reasons for spoilage | Exposure to new bacteria, moisture |
| Preservation techniques | Use of waxed paper, vacuum sealer, sealed container, freezer |
| Impact of preservatives on cheese | Affects taste, melting, grit and lumps in cheese sauce |
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What You'll Learn
How long does shredded cheese last in the fridge?
The shelf life of shredded cheese in the fridge depends on a few factors. Firstly, the type of cheese matters. Hard cheeses like Parmesan and Swiss have a longer shelf life than soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella. Hard cheeses can last up to a month in the fridge after purchase, while soft cheeses should be consumed within one to two weeks.
Secondly, the way the cheese is packaged and stored affects its longevity. Pre-shredded cheese is often coated with cellulose or powdered potato starch to prevent clumping and sticking, which can interfere with its melting properties and cause issues when making cheese sauces. Therefore, some people prefer to grate their own cheese, especially for recipes that require melting, like mac 'n' cheese or bechamel sauce. Freshly shredded cheese is also believed to taste better and have a better texture than pre-shredded cheese. When stored in a sealed container or vacuum-sealed, shredded cheese can last up to three to four days in the fridge. If you shred your own cheese, it's recommended to only shred enough for a few days and keep the rest of the block intact, as whole blocks of cheese last longer than shredded cheese.
To extend the shelf life of shredded cheese, you can freeze it. Frozen shredded cheese can last up to six months, although freezing may affect the texture of the cheese slightly.
Regardless of the type of cheese or storage method, it's important to use your best judgment before consuming shredded cheese. If the cheese exhibits any signs of spoilage, such as off odors, discoloration, or spots of mold, it should be discarded. While it is generally safe to cut off moldy parts from blocks of hard cheese, this practice is not recommended for shredded cheese. Additionally, if the cheese feels wet or spongy, it is best to discard it.
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Does shredded cheese need to be stored differently?
Shredded cheese, whether store-bought or homemade, has a shorter shelf life than blocks of cheese. It lasts about 3 to 5 days after shredding, and leftovers can be frozen. If an unopened package of shredded cheese is more than a couple of weeks past its date or has been opened for more than 5 to 6 days, it should be discarded.
Store-bought shredded cheese is often coated in cellulose or cornstarch to prevent sticking, which can interfere with its ability to melt smoothly. It is best stored in the package it came in, sealed tightly, to prevent the shreds from drying out.
Homemade shredded cheese can be stored in a Ziploc bag or airtight container in the refrigerator and should be used within 2 to 3 days. If storing larger quantities, it can be frozen and will keep for up to six months.
The shelf life of shredded cheese also depends on the type of cheese. Hard cheeses like Parmesan and Swiss should be eaten within a month of purchase, while soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella will only keep for one to two weeks.
In general, the moisture content of cheese is the most important factor when it comes to storage. Cheeses with high moisture content, such as soft, sticky, runny, or gooey cheeses, have a shorter shelf life. Cheeses with low moisture content, such as firm, hard, or crumbly cheeses, can last several weeks or months with proper storage.
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Does shredded cheese go bad faster than block cheese?
Shredded cheese does go bad faster than block cheese. Once shredded, the cheese is exposed to more air, which causes it to spoil faster. Homemade shredded cheese lasts about 3 to 5 days after shredding, whereas cheese blocks can last a couple of weeks after opening. Block cheese is also cheaper than shredded cheese, and you get more for your money since shredded cheese is often sold in smaller quantities.
Shredded cheese is also coated in cellulose and powdered potato starch to prevent sticking, which can interfere with melting smoothly. This can be a problem if you're trying to make a cheese sauce, as it can cause lumps. Therefore, it is recommended to shred your own cheese, especially if you're using it for something like mac 'n' cheese.
However, there are some downsides to shredding your own cheese. It can be time-consuming and tedious, causing hand cramps and tired arms. Additionally, shredded cheese from a block can be greasier when cooked and may clump together if not stored properly.
To extend the shelf life of shredded cheese, it can be frozen. Frozen shredded cheese can last up to six months, providing a convenient way to have shredded cheese on hand without the hassle of grating it yourself.
It is important to note that, regardless of the type, if shredded cheese develops off odors, discoloring, or spots of mold, it should be discarded as these are signs of spoilage.
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What are the signs that shredded cheese has gone bad?
Shredded cheese can be a convenient way to add flavour and texture to a variety of dishes, but it's important to ensure that it is still safe to consume. Here are some signs that will help you determine if your shredded cheese has gone bad:
Appearance
The visual appearance of shredded cheese can provide important clues about its freshness. If you notice any discolouration or spots of mould on the cheese, it is best to discard it. Different types of fuzz or splotches in various colours and textures can indicate spoilage. For example, if a hard cheese like cheddar or parmesan has turned dark, it is likely no longer safe to eat.
Smell
The smell of shredded cheese is another crucial indicator of its freshness. If the cheese has developed a strong ammonia smell similar to cat urine, it has probably gone bad. Mild cheeses like Monterey Jack or American that start smelling strong like blue cheese or Limburger should also be discarded. If the cheese smells like a much more concentrated version of its usual scent, it's likely spoiled.
Texture
Changes in the texture of shredded cheese can also signify spoilage. If the cheese has become mushy or dry, it may not be safe to consume. However, some aged cheeses naturally develop crunchy crystals, so texture alone may not always be a reliable indicator.
Taste
Sometimes, the only way to know if shredded cheese has gone bad is to taste it. If it tastes sour or awful, it has likely spoiled.
Expiration Date
While not a direct sign of spoilage, checking the "best by" or expiration date on the packaging can provide guidance. If the cheese is past this date, it is generally not recommended for consumption.
It's important to trust your senses and use your best judgement when assessing the freshness of shredded cheese. If in doubt, it's better to discard the cheese than risk potential food poisoning, which can cause stomach pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever.
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Can I still eat shredded cheese if there is mould on it?
Mould is a common issue with cheese, and it can be tricky to know what to do when you spot it. The general advice is that if there is mould on shredded cheese, it should be thrown away. This is because shredded cheese has a larger surface area than a block of cheese, so mould is likely to spread more quickly and be harder to remove.
Some sources advise that small amounts of mould on hard cheeses are safe to consume. The mould can simply be cut away, leaving the rest of the cheese intact. This is because hard cheeses are less moist than soft cheeses, so mould is less likely to have penetrated the cheese. However, this advice does not apply to shredded cheese, as it is almost impossible to remove all the mould.
Mould contains spores, which can be harmful if consumed. While it is unlikely that a small amount of mould will cause illness, it is not worth the risk. In addition, mould can negatively affect the flavour of the cheese, so it is best to avoid eating it.
To prevent mould from growing on shredded cheese, it is important to store it correctly. Shredded cheese should be kept in a sealed bag or container in the fridge. It is also a good idea to use shredded cheese within a few weeks of opening, as it can go bad quickly.
In summary, it is not recommended to eat shredded cheese if there is mould on it. The best course of action is to discard the cheese and buy a fresh batch.
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Frequently asked questions
Once opened, shredded cheese will last for different periods depending on the type of cheese. Hard cheeses like Parmesan and Swiss should be eaten within a month of purchase. Soft cheese like cheddar and mozzarella will only be good for one to two weeks after opening.
If you freeze your bag of shredded cheese, it is recommended to eat it within six months from when it was bought.
Your senses are one of the best indications of the quality of cheese. If you notice any off odours, discolouring, or spots of mould on your shredded cheese, don't eat it. These signs mean the cheese has likely spoiled.
