Randy Chandler
The shelf life of cheese in the fridge depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, its moisture content, and how it is stored. Soft cheeses with higher moisture content are more perishable and typically last 1-2 weeks in the fridge, while hard cheeses with lower moisture content can last 3-4 weeks or even longer. Proper storage methods, such as wrapping the cheese in wax, parchment, or cheese paper, can also extend the shelf life of cheese. Additionally, factors like temperature, humidity, and exposure to contaminants can impact how long cheese remains safe to consume.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safe Fridge Temperature | Below 40°F (4°C) |
| Wrapping | Wax, parchment, or cheese paper |
| Wrapping Container | Airtight |
| Hard Cheeses | Last 3-4 times longer than soft cheeses |
| Semi-Hard Cheeses | Last 2-3 weeks |
| Soft Cheeses | Last 1-2 weeks |
| Unopened Hard Cheeses | Last up to 6 months |
| Opened Hard Cheeses | Last 3-4 weeks |
| High Moisture Content | More perishable |
| Low Moisture Content | Longer shelf life |
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What You'll Learn
Soft cheeses: 1-2 weeks
Soft cheeses, such as mozzarella, feta, ricotta, and brie, typically last between 1-2 weeks in the fridge. This is because they have a higher moisture content, which makes them more perishable. The high moisture content also makes it easier for mold and bacteria to spread beneath the surface, so it's important to keep an eye on soft cheeses and discard them if mold appears.
To maximize the shelf life of soft cheeses, it's important to wrap them properly and store them in the fridge. Choose a wrapping that allows the cheese to breathe, such as wax paper, parchment paper, or cheese paper. Avoid using plastic wrap, as this can trap moisture and accelerate oxidation, impacting the flavor of the cheese. Once the cheese is wrapped, store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
It's also important to maintain a safe fridge temperature of below 40°F (4°C) to slow down the growth of bacteria. Additionally, try to buy cheese more frequently in smaller amounts, as cheese has a relatively short shelf life compared to other dairy products.
When it comes to determining if a soft cheese has gone bad, trust your senses. Smell the cheese and note any "off" odors that are different from its usual scent. Fresh mozzarella, for example, shouldn't smell yeasty. Look for any signs of mold, and discard the cheese if you see red or black mold. If you notice blue, gray, or green mold on soft cheese, it's best to throw it out, as these types of cheese are more susceptible to spoilage beneath the surface.
By following these storage tips and regularly inspecting your soft cheeses, you can ensure that you're enjoying them at their best within the 1-2 week timeframe.
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Hard cheeses: 3-4 weeks
Hard cheeses, such as aged cheddar, aged Gouda, and Parmigiano Reggiano, can last three to four weeks in the refrigerator after being opened. This is because hard cheeses have lower moisture content, which means they are less prone to spoilage from bacteria. In fact, unopened hard cheeses don't need to be refrigerated at all, though they will last much longer if they are.
To make hard cheeses last longer, it's important to store them properly. This means keeping your fridge temperature below 40°F (4°C) and wrapping the cheese in wax, parchment, or cheese paper to help maintain its moisture. You can then place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container like a Tupperware or Ziploc bag.
It's worth noting that hard cheeses can even be kept at room temperature for a few days, as they often are in grocery stores. However, if you want to extend their shelf life, storing them in the fridge is recommended.
While hard cheeses can last three to four weeks in the fridge, it's important to use your senses to determine if they have gone bad. If you see spots of mold, cut off at least one inch (2.5 cm) around and below the affected areas. If you notice any off smells, it's best to discard the cheese.
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Semi-hard cheeses: 2-3 weeks
Semi-hard cheeses, such as cheddar, Gruyère, Comté, aged Manchego, and Monterey Jack, contain less moisture than soft cheeses. This means they have a longer shelf life than soft cheeses, which are more prone to spoilage from bacteria. To ensure your semi-hard cheese lasts for the full two to three weeks, follow these steps for proper storage: remove the cheese from its plastic packaging and wrap it loosely in a pliable yet breathable material, such as wax paper or cheese paper. Then, place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container and store it in the fridge.
It is important to note that the shelf life of semi-hard cheeses can vary depending on the quality of the cheese, the packaging, and the temperature of your fridge. To maximize shelf life, store your cheese at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). At higher temperatures, bacteria multiply more quickly, increasing the risk of spoilage.
Additionally, always inspect your cheese before consumption to ensure it is safe to eat. While cheese will usually become unpalatable before it becomes dangerous, mould can indicate that your cheese has spoiled. If you notice any mould on your semi-hard cheese, cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the affected areas before consuming the rest. If you notice red or black mould, however, it is best to discard the entire cheese, as this may indicate a more serious issue.
By following these storage and food safety guidelines, you can maximize the shelf life of your semi-hard cheeses and safely enjoy them for two to three weeks after opening.
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Safe fridge temperature: below 40°F (4°C)
The ideal temperature for storing cheese in the fridge is below 40°F (4°C). At this temperature, you can ensure that your cheese will remain safe to consume and will not spoil.
Higher temperatures significantly increase the rate at which bacteria multiply, which increases the risk of spoilage. Therefore, it is important to maintain a consistent temperature in your fridge. Some fridges have built-in thermometers, but if yours does not, you can purchase a fridge thermometer. Place the thermometer in the warmest spot, usually near the door, rather than tucked away at the back.
When storing cheese in the fridge, it is important to consider the type of cheese and its moisture content. Soft cheeses tend to spoil more quickly than hard cheeses due to their higher moisture content, which provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Therefore, soft cheeses should be consumed within 1-2 weeks of opening, while hard cheeses can last 3-4 times longer, with a shelf life of 3-4 weeks.
To extend the shelf life of your cheese, follow these storage tips:
- Wrap blocks of cheese or other types that don't come in resealable packaging in wax, parchment, or cheese paper. Avoid using tight, non-porous materials like plastic wrap, as they can dry out the cheese.
- Store the wrapped cheese in a container with an airtight lid on the top or middle shelf of your fridge, or in a drawer.
- Ensure that the cheese is stored above raw meats, poultry, and fish to avoid contamination.
- Allow the cheese to "breathe" and release moisture by using a pliable, breathable material for wrapping.
- Only buy cheese for the week ahead and try to consume it within that time frame.
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Storage tips: wrapping, containers, and avoiding contamination
Cheese is a living food that continues to age and develop after purchase, so proper storage is essential to maintaining its quality, flavour, and texture.
When storing cheese, it is best to avoid plastic wrap as it can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth. Instead, use materials that allow the cheese to breathe and enable some air circulation, such as cheese paper, parchment paper, or wax paper. Cheese paper is a specially designed two-ply paper that protects cheese from external moisture and odours while allowing it to breathe. The inner layer absorbs excess moisture, while the outer layer provides a barrier. Waxed paper or cheesecloth are also recommended for hard cheeses, as they tend to "sweat". For soft cheeses, which have a high moisture content and are more susceptible to mould, it is recommended to rewrap them in fresh paper every few days to prevent moisture buildup.
To prevent flavour transfer and mould spread, it is best to store different types of cheese separately. If you must store them together, use separate airtight containers. For blue cheese, which has beneficial mould content, double-wrapping or storing it in a separate compartment can prevent its odours from permeating other foods.
To avoid contamination, avoid touching cheese with bare hands, even if they are freshly washed, as this can promote mould growth. Instead, use gloves or a clean, dry knife to handle the cheese.
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Frequently asked questions
The length of time cheese is good in the fridge depends on the type of cheese and how it is stored. Soft cheeses with higher moisture content are more prone to spoilage and will last 1-2 weeks in the fridge. Semi-hard cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack have a shelf life of 2-3 weeks. Hard cheeses with lower moisture content last the longest and can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 weeks or even 6 months if unopened.
Moisture is necessary for bacterial growth, so cheeses with higher moisture content have a shorter shelf life. Cheeses with lower moisture content lack the ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and will last longer.
Cheese should be stored at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). It should be wrapped in wax, parchment, or cheese paper to maintain its moisture and allow it to breathe. It can then be placed in an airtight container or Ziploc bag to prevent drying out.
