Parmesan Cheese: How Long Does It Last?

Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a lengthy aging process and a long shelf life. When stored in the refrigerator under the right conditions, Parmesan can last for several weeks to months. An unopened block of Parmesan cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for seven to nine months, while an opened block will last for one to two months. Grated Parmesan cheese will last about one week in the refrigerator. To extend the shelf life, it is recommended to store opened Parmesan in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator.

Proper storage is key

The key to maximising the shelf life of Parmesan cheese is proper storage. Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a lengthy ageing process of a minimum of two years and occasionally more than four. Its hardness and low moisture content mean that it will last longer than soft cheese.

When storing Parmesan cheese in the refrigerator, it is important to prevent moisture from causing spoilage. Wrapping the cheese in parchment paper, cheesecloth, cheese paper, or wax paper can help achieve this. Storing grated Parmesan in an airtight container is also recommended. To prevent the cheese from absorbing other odours from the refrigerator, it should be covered in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and placed in a crisper drawer.

A block of unopened Parmesan cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to nine months, while an opened block will last for one to two months. Grated Parmesan has a shorter shelf life and will only last for about one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing is another option for extending the shelf life of Parmesan cheese. Shredded Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag, and a wedge of cheese can be frozen in a similar manner. When properly stored, shredded Parmesan can last for three to six months, and a wedge of cheese can last for over a year in the freezer.

To summarise, proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality and flavour of Parmesan cheese. By following the recommended storage practices, you can extend the shelf life of this popular cheese and enjoy its unique taste in your favourite dishes.

Vacuum sealing

To maximise the shelf life of vacuum-sealed Parmesan, it is recommended to wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper before sealing. The paper will absorb excess moisture, preventing the cheese from becoming too wet and delaying deterioration. This method is particularly effective for hard cheeses like Parmesan, which have a longer shelf life than softer varieties.

When storing vacuum-sealed Parmesan, it is essential to keep it in the refrigerator, ideally at temperatures below 40°F (4°C). Proper sealing and storage can ensure the cheese remains edible for several weeks to months. Additionally, once the package is opened, the cheese should be stored in an airtight container or resealable bag to prolong its freshness.

It is important to regularly check vacuum-sealed Parmesan for any signs of spoilage, such as mould growth, unpleasant odours, or changes in texture. If mould is spotted on the surface, it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion and consume the remaining cheese. However, if the mould has penetrated deep into the cheese, it is recommended to discard it.

Overall, vacuum sealing is a useful technique for preserving Parmesan cheese. With proper storage conditions and regular checks for spoilage, vacuum-sealed Parmesan can be safely consumed for extended periods.

Freezing Parmesan

Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a lengthy aging process and a low moisture content, which means it will last longer than soft cheese. If you want to prolong its shelf life even further, you can freeze it.

How to Freeze Parmesan Cheese

• Grate the parmesan (if you want to freeze it shredded).
• Pre-freeze: Spread the grated cheese on a cookie sheet lined with aluminum foil, parchment paper, or a silicone mat. Place the tray in the freezer for a couple of hours until the cheese freezes.
• Transfer the frozen cheese into a container or freezer bag.
• Freeze: Put the container or bag into the freezer.

You can freeze shredded parmesan for 3 to 6 months, while a wedge will keep for over a year. However, it's important to note that freezing parmesan will alter its texture and make it more crumbly. It's best to use frozen parmesan in cooked dishes where it will be melted rather than eating it raw.

Defrosting Parmesan Cheese

When it comes to defrosting parmesan cheese, it's important to do it slowly and carefully. Take the parmesan out of the freezer 24 hours before you need to use it and place it in the fridge to defrost slowly for several hours, or even up to a day for larger blocks.

No, you shouldn't refreeze parmesan cheese as it will affect the texture.

Signs of spoilage

Parmesan cheese is a hard, aged cheese with a relatively long shelf life, especially when stored properly. However, it is still susceptible to spoilage, and there are several signs you can look out for to determine if your Parmesan cheese has gone bad.

Firstly, mould growth is a common sign of spoilage in Parmesan cheese. If you notice surface mould on your Parmesan, it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion, and the rest of the cheese should still be usable. However, if there is extensive mould growth or it has been left for a long time, it is best to discard the cheese entirely.

Another sign of spoilage is an off odour or unusual smell. Parmesan cheese should have a nutty and mellow aroma. If it emits a pungent or sour odour, it has likely gone bad.

Changes in texture can also indicate spoilage. Parmesan cheese should have a hard and dry texture. If it becomes excessively dry, crumbly, or develops a sticky or slimy surface, it has probably spoiled.

Discolouration is another indicator that your Parmesan cheese has gone bad. Parmesan cheese should have a light yellow to pale golden colour. If it turns a deep yellow or develops discoloured spots, it is likely spoiled.

It is important to note that proper storage can help extend the shelf life of Parmesan cheese. This includes keeping it well-sealed in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag in the refrigerator, preventing moisture accumulation, and maintaining temperatures below 40°F (4°C).

Parmesan shelf life

Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a long shelf life, especially when stored properly. Its aging process is a minimum of two years and can occasionally be more than four.

If unopened and still in its original packaging, it can last for several months beyond its expiration date. A whole, unopened block can last seven to nine months in the refrigerator, and up to nine months in total. A block of opened Parmesan will last in the fridge for up to two months.

Once a package of Parmesan is opened, its shelf life depends on 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. Grated Parmesan will last about one week in the refrigerator.

To extend the shelf life, keep the opened Parmesan in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. Parmesan should be stored 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.

Check for signs of spoilage, such as mould growth, off odours, or changes in texture. Parmesan will spoil when it turns yellow or begins to get mouldy. If you notice mould on the surface, it's generally safe to cut off the affected portion, and the rest of the cheese should still be usable.

Frequently asked questions