Randy Chandler
Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese with a long shelf life. When unopened and stored properly in the fridge, it can last up to 9 months, and when opened, it can last 4-8 weeks. However, some sources suggest that it can last several months beyond the expiration date if stored correctly. Proper storage is essential to maintaining the quality and extending the shelf life of Parmesan cheese. It is important to note that Parmesan cheese can go bad, and signs of spoilage include mold growth, a sour or rancid smell, a change in texture, and a change in color.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shelf life | If unopened and stored in the fridge, Parmesan can last up to 9 months. When opened, it lasts 4-8 weeks. |
| Expiry date | Parmesan can be consumed beyond its expiry date, as long as it has been stored properly. |
| Storage | Parmesan should be stored in the fridge, preferably in the crisper drawer, to extend its shelf life. |
| Mould | While surface mould can be trimmed off hard cheeses like Parmesan, widespread mould indicates that the cheese should be discarded. |
| Odour | A sour or unpleasant smell, different from the cheese's natural aroma, is a sign of spoilage. |
| Texture | A change in texture, such as becoming overly hard, crumbly, or slimy, may indicate spoilage. |
| Colour | A change in colour, such as darkening or a yellowish tint, may indicate that the cheese has gone bad. |
| Taste | An off taste is a clear indication that the cheese should not be consumed. |
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What You'll Learn
Parmesan cheese can be stored for a long time
Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese with a low water content, which means it has a long shelf life. When unopened and stored properly in the fridge, it can last up to 9 months. However, if it is opened, its shelf life reduces to 4-8 weeks.
There are several factors that can extend or reduce its shelf life. Firstly, the form of the cheese matters. Grated or shredded Parmesan may have a shorter shelf life compared to a block or wheel of Parmesan. This is because, with grated cheese, the entire product is suspect once mould is spotted, whereas with a block, the mould can be cut off.
Secondly, the storage method is important. To extend the shelf life of opened Parmesan, it should be kept in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. It is also important to prevent the cheese from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator. For grated or shredded Parmesan, a vacuum-sealed bag or a container with a tight lid is recommended.
Thirdly, the fridge temperature and humidity can affect the shelf life. Parmesan should be stored at temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Finally, the brand of Parmesan may impact its shelf life. Some brands may contain preservatives, which can extend the shelf life.
Overall, Parmesan cheese can be stored for a long time, but it is important to inspect the cheese for signs of spoilage, such as mould growth, an off smell, a change in texture or taste, or a change in colour.
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Proper storage is essential
For blocks of Parmesan, the cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F (4°C). It is important to keep the cheese well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator. Parchment paper or cheese paper are good options for wrapping the cheese, as they allow it to breathe and prevent moisture build-up that could lead to mould growth.
If you have grated your own Parmesan, only grate as much as you need at one time. If you have excess, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness.
It is also important to practice good hygiene when handling Parmesan cheese. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching the cheese to prevent the introduction of bacteria. Use clean utensils and cutting boards dedicated to cheese to avoid flavour contamination.
By following these proper storage and handling practices, you can maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of your Parmesan cheese.
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Signs of spoilage
Parmesan cheese has a long shelf life, but it can go bad. There are several signs of spoilage to look out for:
Mould growth
Mould growth is a common sign of spoilage in Parmesan cheese. While hard cheeses like Parmesan can have surface mould trimmed off, widespread mould indicates that the cheese should be discarded. Mould may appear as blue or green spots on the surface of the cheese.
Sour or rancid smell
A sour, rancid, or otherwise unpleasant smell is another sign of spoilage. This smell is distinct from the cheese's natural nutty aroma. If the cheese has developed an off odour, it is best to discard it.
Change in texture
A change in texture can also indicate that Parmesan cheese has gone bad. The cheese may become overly hard, crumbly, or slimy beyond its typical dry and granular nature.
Change in colour
Spoiled Parmesan cheese may also exhibit a change in colour, turning darker or developing a yellowish tint.
Off taste
An off taste is a clear indication that the cheese should not be consumed. If the cheese has developed a strange flavour, it is best to discard it.
It is important to note that proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and extending the shelf life of Parmesan cheese. When stored properly, Parmesan cheese can last for several months beyond its expiration date.
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Parmesan cheese can be frozen
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a very low water content, which means it has a long shelf life. If stored properly, it can last for several months beyond its expiration date. However, once the package is opened, its shelf life decreases. To extend the shelf life of opened Parmesan cheese, it should be stored in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator.
- Wrap the cheese: Parchment paper, cheesecloth, wax paper, or paper towels can be used to wrap the cheese, followed by plastic wrap or aluminium foil. This will prevent condensation and stop the cheese from absorbing odours from the freezer.
- Place in an airtight container or freezer bag: This will ensure the cheese is protected from freezer burn and prolong its shelf life.
- Store in the freezer: Parmesan cheese can be stored in the freezer for several months without significant degradation.
It is important to note that freezing Parmesan cheese may alter its texture and taste. Therefore, it is recommended to use frozen Parmesan cheese in dishes where the cheese does not play a central role in the flavour profile. Additionally, always ensure that Parmesan cheese is stored at temperatures below 40°F (4°C) and never leave it at room temperature for more than two hours.
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Grated parmesan has a shorter shelf life
Parmesan cheese has a long shelf life, but grated parmesan has a shorter shelf life. This is because, with pre-grated parmesan, there are specific considerations to keep in mind. Pre-grated parmesan cheese typically comes with a "best by" date, but the actual duration it remains good for can extend beyond that if stored properly.
When kept in the refrigerator, pre-grated parmesan can last longer if kept in an airtight container or tightly sealed in its original packaging to prevent moisture. However, once the package of grated parmesan is opened, its shelf life depends on how well it is sealed and stored. If you find yourself with excess freshly grated cheese, it is wise to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness.
It is important to note that grated parmesan cheese can go bad. Some signs of spoilage include mold growth, a sour or rancid smell, a change in texture, and a change in color. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the cheese to avoid potential foodborne illness.
The shelf life of grated parmesan cheese can be extended by following proper storage practices. This includes storing the cheese in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F (4°C), ensuring that the cheese is well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours, and using a vacuum-sealed bag or a container with a tight lid.
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Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese has a long shelf life, but it can go bad. Proper storage is essential to keeping the cheese edible for as long as possible. If stored correctly, Parmesan can last several months beyond its expiration date.
There are several signs of spoilage to look out for:
- Mould growth, which may appear as blue or green spots on the surface.
- A sour or rancid smell, distinct from the cheese's natural nutty aroma.
- A change in texture, such as becoming overly hard or crumbly beyond its typical dry and granular nature.
- A change in colour, where the cheese may turn darker or exhibit a yellowish tint.
The fridge is the best place to store Parmesan cheese, particularly in the crisper drawer. Parmesan should be well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator. For grated or shredded Parmesan, consider using a vacuum-sealed bag or a container with a tight lid.
Yes, hard cheeses like Parmesan can be placed in the freezer. Freezing the cheese can extend its shelf life.
