Randy Chandler
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a long shelf life, especially when stored correctly. Refrigeration is recommended to maintain freshness and prolong its lifespan, with proper sealing also helping to prevent the cheese from drying out or absorbing odours. Some sources suggest that Parmesan cheese does not need to be refrigerated, especially if it is the Kraft brand of Parmesan cheese, which is pasteurized to kill bacteria. However, Kraft recommends refrigerating their cheese to maintain freshness and quality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shelf life of Parmesan cheese in the refrigerator | Several weeks to months depending on the type of cheese |
| Ideal temperature for refrigeration | Below 40°F (4°C) |
| Storage method | Well-sealed to prevent drying out or absorption of odours |
| Shelf life of unopened Parmesan cheese | Several months beyond the expiration date |
| Shelf life of opened Parmesan cheese | One to two months for a block of cheese, one week for grated cheese |
| Freezing Parmesan cheese | Can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag |
| Parmesan cheese storage at room temperature | Should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours |
| Parmesan cheese and lactose intolerance | Hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan contain very little lactose |
| Grated Parmesan cheese and refrigeration | Should be refrigerated to maintain freshness and quality |
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What You'll Learn
Kraft's Parmesan cheese
Kraft has addressed the debate on whether its Parmesan cheese products require refrigeration. The company has advised consumers to store its cheeses in the refrigerator at a normal temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit. At room temperature, Kraft's Parmesan cheese should only be kept for up to one hour. This is because cheese, despite its seemingly long shelf life, is a dairy product, and dairy products are prone to spoilage at higher temperatures.
Kraft's recommendation aligns with the understanding that refrigeration slows the growth of bacteria, which can cause foodborne illnesses and spoil the cheese. Additionally, the dry texture of grated Parmesan cheese results from a dehydration process that reduces fat compounds. This lower fat content further emphasizes the need for refrigeration to maintain freshness and quality.
The iconic green shaker bottle of Kraft's grated Parmesan cheese is a popular product often stored at room temperature on store shelves and in pantries. However, once opened, it should be treated like any other dairy product and refrigerated to ensure optimal freshness and safety.
It's worth noting that Kraft's Parmesan cheese products, including the grated variety, are designed with a longer shelf life than fresh cheese due to their lower fat content and dehydration process. This means they can be safely stored at room temperature for a limited time without immediate spoilage. However, for long-term storage and to maintain the best quality, refrigeration is recommended.
In summary, Kraft Parmesan cheese, including the well-known green shaker variety, should be refrigerated after opening to preserve its freshness, quality, and safety. While it can be kept at room temperature for short periods, following Kraft's guidance of refrigeration at 40 degrees Fahrenheit will ensure the best consumer experience and reduce the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage.
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Parmesan cheese shelf life
Parmesan cheese has a relatively long shelf life, especially if stored properly. When stored in the refrigerator under the right conditions, Parmesan can last for several weeks to months.
If the Parmesan cheese is unopened and still in its original packaging, it can last for several months beyond the expiration date, as long as it has been stored properly. The best way to store unopened Parmesan is in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F (4°C). Ensure the cheese is well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.
Once a package of Parmesan is opened, its shelf life depends on factors such as how well it is sealed and stored. If you've grated or shredded the Parmesan, it may have a shorter shelf life compared to a block or wheel of Parmesan. To extend the shelf life of opened Parmesan, keep it in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. Wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper and then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminium foil before refrigerating.
Stored this way, an opened chunk of Parmesan cheese will last for about four to six weeks in the refrigerator. If you notice any mold on the cheese, cut away at least one inch around and below the moldy area and re-cover the cheese in fresh wrap. If mold appears in a package of shredded Parmesan, the entire package should be discarded.
To further extend the shelf life of Parmesan cheese, you can freeze it. Grate the Parmesan before freezing and place the grated cheese inside an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, Parmesan cheese will maintain its best quality in the freezer for about 12 to 18 months but will remain safe to eat beyond that time. Parmesan cheese that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional three to four days in the refrigerator before using.
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Refrigeration and flavour
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese, and as such, it does not require refrigeration. However, storing it in the fridge can extend its shelf life considerably. Proper refrigeration is essential to maintaining the flavour and texture of Parmesan cheese.
If unopened and stored properly in the refrigerator, Parmesan cheese can last for several months beyond its expiration date. Once opened, its shelf life depends on how well it is sealed and stored. To extend the shelf life of opened Parmesan, it should be kept in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. The cheese should be stored at temperatures below 4°C and well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.
If kept out of the fridge, Parmesan cheese should be used within three to seven days. However, if refrigerated, it can last up to about six weeks, and even longer if unopened.
While Parmesan cheese does not need to be refrigerated, proper storage is essential to maintaining its flavour and texture. Refrigeration can also extend the shelf life of the cheese, making it a convenient option for those who may not consume it frequently.
In addition to refrigeration, other factors can impact the flavour and texture of Parmesan cheese. For example, the cheese is sensitive to oxygen, and the less oxygen it is exposed to, the longer it will last. This is why airtight containers or resealable bags are recommended for storage.
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Freezing Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese is best stored in the refrigerator to preserve its structure and flavour. Freezing Parmesan cheese can cause its structure to break down, compromising its texture. During the thawing process, an increase in moisture may occur, which can further affect the quality of the cheese.
To store Parmesan cheese in the refrigerator, wrap the cheese in cling film or, preferably, in Ovtene bags, which are specifically designed to preserve food products. These bags simulate the egg shell and recreate a humid, natural environment that is ideal for preserving Parmesan cheese. When stored in this way, Parmesan can be stored for over a month as if the product had just been cut.
If you have already opened the package of Parmesan cheese, its shelf life depends on how well it is sealed and stored. Opened Parmesan should be kept in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life. Make sure the cheese is well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.
If stored properly in the refrigerator, Parmesan cheese can last for several weeks to months. Unopened Parmesan cheese in its original packaging can even last for several months beyond its expiration date.
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Parmesan cheese and lactose intolerance
Parmesan cheese is a hard, aged cheese that is known for its distinctive flavour and texture. It is often used as a topping or ingredient in various dishes, adding a savoury and nutty taste. Parmesan cheese has a relatively long shelf life when stored properly, especially when refrigerated.
Now, let's discuss Parmesan cheese in the context of lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance is a common condition where individuals have difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. The severity of lactose intolerance can vary, with some people experiencing more significant digestive symptoms than others. For those with lactose intolerance, the good news is that Parmesan cheese is generally well-tolerated. This is because hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan contain very low levels of lactose. During the ageing process, the lactose in the cheese is converted into lactic acid, resulting in negligible amounts of lactose in the final product.
However, it is important to note that while Parmesan cheese may be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance, it is not completely lactose-free. Most Parmesan cheese varieties have a lactose content of around two percent. This small amount of lactose may still cause symptoms in highly sensitive individuals or if consumed in larger quantities. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to lactose intolerance. Fresh and unripened cheeses tend to have higher lactose levels, while other hard, aged cheeses like Asiago and Romano are also considered lactose-free options.
For those with a severe lactose intolerance or dairy allergy, it is essential to be cautious and aware of potential triggers. Some individuals may react to specific proteins in dairy, such as whey, which is added to Parmesan cheese during production. In such cases, even a small amount of Parmesan can trigger symptoms. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to understand your specific triggers and safe alternatives. Additionally, for those with a dairy allergy or severe intolerance, it may be advisable to explore non-dairy cheese options made from plant-based milk, ensuring a completely dairy-free alternative.
In conclusion, Parmesan cheese is generally well-tolerated by individuals with lactose intolerance due to its low lactose content. However, the sensitivity and triggers can vary from person to person. It is always advisable to understand your specific tolerance levels and make choices accordingly. For those with severe intolerance or allergies, non-dairy cheese alternatives may be the safest option to enjoy cheese without the worry of adverse reactions.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is recommended to refrigerate Pope Parmesan cheese to prolong its shelf life and maintain its quality and freshness.
An unopened block of Pope Parmesan cheese can last between seven to nine months in the refrigerator.
An opened block of Pope Parmesan cheese will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two months.
To store Pope Parmesan cheese in the fridge, wrap the cheese in parchment paper, cheesecloth, or wax paper to prevent condensation. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to avoid absorbing fridge odors. Place the wrapped cheese in the crisper drawer.
