Randy Chandler
Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese with a very low water content, which means it has a longer shelf life than other cheeses. Once opened, however, shredded Parmesan cheese has a shorter shelf life than a block or wheel of Parmesan. To extend the shelf life of shredded Parmesan cheese, it should be stored in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator and consumed within 5 to 7 days. If you want to keep shredded Parmesan cheese for longer, it can be frozen and will maintain its best quality for about 8 months.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shelf life | 5-7 days in the refrigerator; 8 months in the freezer |
| Storage conditions | Refrigerate at all times; seal tightly or place in an airtight container or resealable bag |
| Signs of spoilage | Mould growth, off odours, changes in texture or colour |
| Consumption | Avoid mouldy bits; cut off affected portion and use the rest |
| Freezing | Extends shelf life; may lose texture and flavour |
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What You'll Learn
Refrigeration and freezing
To further extend the shelf life, freezing is an excellent option. When freezing shredded Parmesan cheese, it is best to place it in the freezer before the recommended refrigeration time has elapsed. Frozen Parmesan cheese may lose some of its texture and flavor, so it is best suited for cooked dishes like sauces, soups, and casseroles. To freeze, tightly seal the original packaging and place it in the freezer. If freezing for longer than two months, consider using a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, shredded Parmesan cheese will maintain its best quality for about eight months but will remain safe beyond that time.
It is important to note that shredded Parmesan cheese should be stored below 40°F (4°C) in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. Additionally, proper sealing is crucial to prevent the cheese from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator. For grated or shredded Parmesan, consider using a vacuum-sealed bag or a container with a tight lid.
While Parmesan cheese has a long shelf life due to its dry and hard nature, proper storage is essential to maintaining its quality. This includes paying attention to signs of spoilage, such as mold growth, off-odors, or changes in texture. If mold is spotted on hard cheeses like Parmesan, it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion and consume the rest of the cheese.
Some sources suggest that shredded Parmesan cheese can last for up to 1-2 months in the refrigerator if properly stored, while others recommend using it within two weeks to maintain optimal quality. However, it is always important to inspect the cheese for any signs of spoilage and use your best judgment before consumption.
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Storage containers
To maximise the shelf life of shredded Parmesan cheese, it is important to use the right storage containers. Parmesan cheese contains a variety of fats that tend to cling to each other, causing the shredded cheese to clump together and potentially ruining its flavour. To prevent this, the simplest approach is to use an airtight container. This ensures that moisture cannot get to the cheese, reducing the likelihood of clumping and flavour alteration. Cool temperatures also make it harder for food to absorb moisture, so it is important to store the airtight container in the refrigerator, ideally at temperatures below 5°C.
If you have purchased shredded Parmesan cheese in a bag, it is recommended to transfer the cheese to an airtight container. The bag encourages moisture, increasing the likelihood of clumping. If you grate the cheese yourself, it will have a smaller surface area than pre-packed grated cheese, reducing its ability to absorb moisture.
To further extend the shelf life of opened shredded Parmesan cheese, you can freeze it. Place the cheese in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed. Frozen Parmesan cheese may lose some of its texture and flavour, so it is best suited for cooked dishes such as sauces, soups, and casseroles. When freezing for longer than two months, use a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, shredded Parmesan cheese will maintain its best quality for about eight months but will remain safe beyond that time.
It is worth noting that some sources suggest that shredded Parmesan cheese can be safely consumed beyond its expiration date, especially if it is stored properly. However, it is important to inspect the cheese for any signs of spoilage, such as mould or a change in colour or smell.
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Expiration dates
Shredded Parmesan cheese will have a "Best By," "Best if Used By," or "Use By" date on the package. However, this date is not a hard-and-fast rule for when the cheese will go bad. Parmesan is a dry, hard cheese with very low water content, so it tends to last much longer than the expiration date, provided it is stored properly.
If stored correctly, an opened package of shredded Parmesan can last for about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. To maximise its shelf life, shredded Parmesan should be refrigerated at all times and kept in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It should be well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.
If you want to keep shredded Parmesan for longer, you can freeze it. Frozen Parmesan will maintain its best quality for about 8 months but will remain safe to eat beyond that. When freezing, it is best to place the shredded Parmesan in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
It is important to note that any fat in shredded Parmesan can go rancid, and mould can take hold, so it is important to pay attention to any signs of spoilage, such as mould growth, off odours, or changes in texture or colour. If you notice mould on the surface of hard cheeses like Parmesan, it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion and consume the rest of the cheese.
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Signs of spoilage
Like all foods, shredded Parmesan cheese can spoil if not stored properly. Here are some signs to look for when determining if your shredded Parmesan cheese has gone bad:
- Mold: If you spot mold on your shredded Parmesan cheese, it is best to discard it. Mold can be toxic and harmful to your health, so it is not worth risking consuming mold-ridden cheese. The mold on cheese is typically visible and appears as small, cotton-like patches that can vary in color from white to green or black. It is important to inspect the cheese closely, as mold can sometimes grow inside the packaging and may not be immediately visible.
- Discoloration: Shredded Parmesan cheese should have a consistent off-white or light yellow color. If you notice any discoloration, such as dark spots or a yellowish hue, it could indicate that the cheese is starting to spoil. The discoloration is often caused by oxidation or the growth of bacteria, and it affects the taste and texture of the cheese.
- Off-Odors: Parmesan cheese has a distinctive savory and nutty aroma. If your shredded Parmesan cheese emits an off-odor, such as a sour, rancid, or putrid smell, it has likely gone bad. The unpleasant odor is caused by the breakdown of fatty acids in the cheese, indicating that it is no longer safe to consume.
- Texture changes: Pay attention to any changes in the texture of your shredded Parmesan cheese. If it becomes dry, crumbly, or clumpy, it may be past its prime. Moisture loss can cause the cheese to become harder and more brittle, making it difficult to shred or melt properly. On the other hand, if the cheese becomes sticky or slimy, it could indicate the presence of bacteria or mold and should be discarded.
- Taste: While it is not recommended to taste cheese that shows signs of spoilage, an unpleasant or sour taste is a sure indicator that your shredded Parmesan cheese has gone bad. The sharp or bitter taste is often a result of bacterial growth or oxidation, rendering the cheese unsafe for consumption.
It is important to note that shredded Parmesan cheese can spoil faster than a block of Parmesan due to the increased surface area exposed to air and moisture. Always trust your senses and, if in doubt, discard the cheese to prevent any potential health risks associated with consuming spoiled food. Proper storage, including airtight packaging and refrigeration, can help extend the shelf life of shredded Parmesan cheese.
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Health risks
Consuming spoiled shredded Parmesan cheese can lead to several health risks. Proper storage is essential to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and maintain the quality and safety of the cheese. Here are some health risks associated with consuming spoiled shredded Parmesan cheese:
Foodborne Illness: Spoiled Parmesan cheese can harbour harmful bacteria, such as Listeria, Salmonella, or E. coli, which can cause foodborne illnesses. These bacteria can proliferate when the cheese is left at room temperature or stored improperly. To minimise the risk, always store shredded Parmesan cheese in the refrigerator, preferably between 35-45°F (4-7°C), and adhere to the best-before dates.
Stomach Pain and Diarrhoea: Eating mouldy cheese can lead to stomach pain and diarrhoea, which are common symptoms of food poisoning. Mould growth on shredded Parmesan cheese indicates spoilage and should not be consumed. It is important to inspect the cheese for any signs of mould, and if present, discard the cheese immediately.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Parmesan cheese is known for its nutritional content, including healthy fats and protein. However, when the cheese goes bad, these nutrients can break down or become affected by bacteria, rendering them less beneficial to the body. Consuming spoiled cheese can lead to nutritional deficiencies and impact overall health.
Allergic Reactions: In some cases, spoiled Parmesan cheese can trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to certain food allergens. Mould growth or bacterial contamination can introduce new allergens or intensify existing ones, posing a risk to those with allergies or intolerances. If you have any food allergies or sensitivities, it is crucial to be cautious about consuming shredded Parmesan cheese that is past its prime.
Toxin Consumption: Mouldy cheese can contain harmful toxins produced by certain types of mould. These toxins, such as aflatoxins or ergot alkaloids, can cause serious health issues if consumed. Even small amounts of mould on shredded Parmesan cheese can indicate the presence of these toxins, and it is essential to discard the cheese entirely to avoid potential toxicity.
To minimise health risks, it is important to inspect shredded Parmesan cheese for any signs of spoilage, including mould growth, off odours, or changes in texture or colour. Always store the cheese properly, follow best-before dates, and practise good hygiene when handling the cheese to prevent cross-contamination.
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Frequently asked questions
An opened package of shredded Parmesan cheese will last for about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. To extend its shelf life, keep it in an airtight container or resealable bag.
Yes, you can freeze shredded Parmesan cheese to extend its shelf life. Properly stored, shredded Parmesan cheese will maintain its best quality for about 8 months, but it will remain safe to consume beyond that time.
Bacteria grows rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F, so shredded Parmesan cheese should be discarded if left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature. Signs of spoilage include mould growth, off odours, or changes in texture or colour.
Yes, shredded Parmesan cheese should be refrigerated at all times to maximize its shelf life. However, some brands of shredded Parmesan cheese, such as Kraft, are sold in the unrefrigerated aisle and only require refrigeration after opening.
