Bushra Griffith
Sliced cheese is a versatile food that can be used in grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, wraps, burgers, and more. But how long do cheese slices last in the fridge after the best-before date on the package? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, how it has been stored, and the degree of spoilage. Hard cheeses like Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda can last for a few weeks to a couple of months in the refrigerator if properly stored and show no signs of spoilage. Soft cheeses, on the other hand, have a shorter shelf life and are more perishable, typically lasting for about a week to a few weeks. It's important to inspect your cheese for signs of mould, off colours, or unusual textures before consuming it. If the cheese is not dried out or mouldy, it is generally considered safe to consume.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ideal temperature for storing cheese | 4°C (40°F) or lower |
| How to store cheese | In its original wrapper or a tightly closed container |
| How to store cheese to prevent drying out | Wrap in porous material like cheese or wax paper |
| How long soft cheeses last in the fridge | 1-2 weeks |
| How long hard cheeses last in the fridge | 3-4 weeks |
| How to identify if cheese has gone bad | Darker color, harder texture, stronger smell, and mold growth |
| What to do if mold is visible on soft cheese | Throw away |
| What to do if mold is visible on hard cheese | Cut off the mold and at least 1 inch around and below the spot |
| How long does sliced American deli cheese last after being frozen and thawed | 3-4 days |
| How long do Kraft cheese slices last | Several months, as long as there is no mold |
| How long are cheese slices good after the sell-by date | 2-3 weeks |
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What You'll Learn
- Kraft cheese slices can last for months after the printed date
- Deli cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life
- Soft cheeses last 1-2 weeks in the fridge, hard cheeses last 3-4 weeks
- Hard cheeses may not need refrigeration but will last longer if they are
- Cheese is spoiled when it has a darker colour, harder texture and stronger smell
Kraft cheese slices can last for months after the printed date
Kraft cheese slices are processed cheese, and processed cheese slices don't freeze well and can last for months if stored properly. They are designed to have a long shelf life, and some sources suggest that they can last indefinitely if stored correctly. The key to extending the shelf life of Kraft cheese slices is to keep them in the refrigerator, maintain a temperature below 40°F (4°C), and ensure they are properly wrapped in their original plastic packaging or covered with wax, parchment, or cheese paper. This helps to prevent the cheese from drying out and maintains its moisture.
However, it's important to inspect the cheese before consumption. If the cheese has dried out or developed mould, it should be discarded. Additionally, if the cheese has a slimy texture or a sour odour, it has likely gone bad and should be thrown away. While some people have reported consuming Kraft cheese slices that were a year past their "best-by" date without any negative consequences, it's essential to use your senses and err on the side of caution.
Once the package of Kraft cheese slices is opened, it's recommended to consume the cheese within a week to ensure optimal freshness and quality. At room temperature, even processed cheese can only remain safe for about two hours. Therefore, proper storage and prompt consumption after opening are crucial to maintaining the safety and quality of Kraft cheese slices.
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Deli cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life
When freezing deli cheese, it is important to package it properly to reduce oxygen contact and prevent freezer burn. One recommended method is to use a vacuum sealer, which eliminates contact with air and allows the cheese to be frozen for a longer period. If a vacuum sealer is not available, you can wrap the cheese tightly in parchment paper and then in aluminum foil. Make sure to trim the cheese into a uniform shape before freezing to ensure even freezing and reduce surface exposure.
It is also worth noting that freezing does not reset the clock on spoilage but rather pauses it. Therefore, it is important to freeze deli cheese before it has spoiled or reached its expiration date. Even after freezing, it is crucial to inspect the cheese for any signs of mold or spoilage before consuming it. If the cheese looks and smells okay, it is likely safe to consume, but the texture and flavour may be slightly altered.
Additionally, the shelf life of deli cheese in the refrigerator depends on the type of cheese. Soft cheeses typically last 1-2 weeks in the fridge after opening, while hard cheeses can last 3-4 weeks. Unopened hard cheeses do not require refrigeration but will stay fresh longer if refrigerated. Always follow the recommended storage guidelines and use-by dates provided by the manufacturer, and inspect the cheese regularly to ensure it is safe to consume.
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Soft cheeses last 1-2 weeks in the fridge, hard cheeses last 3-4 weeks
The shelf life of cheese depends on its type, how it is stored, and whether it has been opened. Soft cheeses, such as cottage cheese, cream cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella, have a higher moisture content, making them more perishable and susceptible to bacteria. Therefore, they typically last only 1-2 weeks in the fridge after opening and should be discarded if left at room temperature for more than two hours.
Hard cheeses, on the other hand, like cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda, have a lower moisture content, making them less prone to bacterial growth. As a result, they can be left out of the fridge for up to four hours and typically last 3-4 weeks in the fridge after opening.
It's important to note that sliced or shredded cheeses, whether soft or hard, should be discarded if mould is present. To prevent mould and maintain moisture, cheese should be wrapped in wax, parchment, or cheese paper and stored in the middle shelf or drawer of the fridge, at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).
While "use by" dates on packaged cheese are generally cautious, it's always important to inspect cheese for signs of spoilage, such as mould, a slimy texture, discolouration, dryness, or an ammonia-like odour.
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Hard cheeses may not need refrigeration but will last longer if they are
Hard cheeses generally do not require refrigeration, especially if they are aged and have low moisture content. Examples of hard cheeses include aged cheddar, gouda, and processed cheeses like canned cheese and squeezable cheese. However, refrigeration will help hard cheeses last longer and stay fresh. At room temperature, hard cheeses can develop mould, and refrigeration can slow down this process.
When storing hard cheeses in the refrigerator, it is important to maintain a temperature below 40°F (4°C). Additionally, wrapping the cheese in porous materials like wax, parchment, or cheese paper can help maintain its moisture and prolong its freshness. These wrapping options allow the cheese to breathe and prevent it from drying out, which can happen if it is wrapped in tight, non-porous materials like plastic wrap.
While hard cheeses can be kept at room temperature, they will eventually spoil, and mould can develop. To extend the shelf life of hard cheeses, refrigeration is recommended. By keeping the cheese at a lower temperature, the growth of bacteria and mould is slowed down, and the cheese will remain edible for a more extended period.
It is worth noting that different countries have varying practices regarding cheese refrigeration. For example, in Europe, it is more common to find hard cheeses sold unrefrigerated in stores, while in the United States, hard cheeses are typically refrigerated in grocery stores. This discrepancy may be due to differences in food safety standards and preparation methods between regions.
In summary, while hard cheeses may not require refrigeration, they will last longer if they are refrigerated. Proper storage methods, such as maintaining optimal temperatures and using suitable wrapping materials, can further enhance the shelf life of hard cheeses and preserve their quality.
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Cheese is spoiled when it has a darker colour, harder texture and stronger smell
Sliced cheese can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3-5 days after opening, according to the package instructions. However, this may vary depending on the type of cheese and other factors. While an unopened package of cheese can last much longer in the refrigerator, especially if vacuum-sealed, it's important to monitor the cheese for any signs of spoilage.
Cheese is a fermented product and can last longer than its "best before" date, but it's crucial to use your senses to determine if it has gone bad. Spoiled cheese may exhibit a darker colour, a harder texture, and a stronger smell. Discolouration, a slimy or greasy texture, and an unpleasant odour are all indicators of spoilage. A bitter, acidic, or unpleasantly sour taste may also indicate that the cheese has gone bad.
It's important to note that not all mould on cheese indicates spoilage. Some cheeses, like Stilton or Brie, are intentionally inoculated with mould to achieve a specific flavour or texture. However, if the cheese is covered in thick mould or exhibits other signs of spoilage, it should be discarded.
To prevent cheese from spoiling, it's recommended to buy only the amount that can be consumed within one week and to store it properly. Soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert should be stored in the fridge in their original packaging, while harder cheeses can be stored in a sealed container or wrapped in wax paper. Freezing cheese is also an option, but some varieties, such as processed cheese slices and soft cheeses, don't freeze well.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheese slices are generally good to eat for a few weeks after the best-before date, assuming they have been stored properly and show no signs of spoilage, such as mould, odd textures, or bad smells.
If your cheese slices have developed mould, odd colours, slimy or sticky textures, or a bad smell, it's time to throw them out. Trust your senses and avoid consuming cheese that looks, smells, feels, or tastes off.
To extend the shelf life of sliced cheese, store it properly by using airtight containers or resealing the original package tightly. Keep it in the coldest part of your fridge, ideally between 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C).
Yes, freezing sliced cheese is a great way to extend its shelf life. Place parchment paper between the slices to prevent sticking, then store them in an airtight container or resealable bag. Label the package with the date, and thaw the cheese in the fridge when you're ready to use it.
In addition to mould and odd colours, textures, and smells, sliced cheese may spoil and develop a sour, rancid, or ammonia-like odour. Always inspect your cheese before consumption, and if it seems off in any way, it's best to discard it.
