Shredded Cheese: How Long Does It Stay Fresh?

A bag of shredded cheese can be a convenient way to add flavour to a variety of dishes, but it's important to know how long it lasts to ensure food safety. The shelf life of shredded cheese depends on various factors, such as the type of cheese, storage methods, and packaging. Here's an overview of how long a bag of shredded cheese typically lasts:

Unopened Shredded Cheese:

- Commercially packaged shredded cheese can usually be stored unopened for a couple of weeks past the printed date.

- Unrefrigerated shredded cheese canisters have a long shelf life, even after opening, but they contain numerous preservatives.

Opened Shredded Cheese:

- Once opened, hard cheeses like Parmesan and Swiss should be consumed within a month.

- Soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella will only last for about one to two weeks.

- Homemade shredded cheese or store-bought shredded cheese that has been opened typically lasts for 3 to 5 days.

- If you need to extend the shelf life, freezing is recommended, and frozen shredded cheese should be consumed within six months.

It's important to use your best judgement and always check for signs of spoilage, such as off odours, discolouration, or mould, before consuming shredded cheese.

An opened bag of shredded cheese will last 3-5 days

The length of time an opened bag of shredded cheese will last also depends on the type of cheese. Soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella will only be good for one to two weeks after opening. Hard cheeses like parmesan and Swiss should be eaten within a month of opening.

It is important to note that the dates on shredded cheese packaging are not expiration dates. They are merely the manufacturer's estimate of when the food will taste its best. All foods, including shredded cheese, can usually be eaten after their expiration dates, as long as they have been stored properly.

However, if you notice any off odours, discolouring, or spots of mould on your shredded cheese, don't eat it! These signs mean the cheese has likely spoiled.

Hard cheese lasts longer than soft cheese

A bag of shredded cheese can last for varying amounts of time, depending on the type of cheese and how it is stored. Hard cheeses tend to last longer than soft cheeses, as they contain less moisture, creating an environment that is less prone to bacterial growth and spoilage.

Hard cheeses, such as Parmesan and Swiss, can be consumed within a month of opening when stored in the refrigerator. On the other hand, soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella have a shorter shelf life of about one to two weeks after opening.

It is worth noting that the storage method also plays a crucial role in preserving the quality and longevity of cheese. Proper storage can dramatically extend the refrigerator life of cheese. For instance, soft cheeses, such as feta or fresh mozzarella, should be kept in their brine and secured with a lid. Semi-soft cheeses like Brie are more delicate and should be wrapped in cheese or parchment paper and stored in an airtight container.

Hard cheeses, being less susceptible to bacterial growth, can be stored in a similar manner to semi-hard cheeses. They can be removed from their plastic packaging and loosely wrapped in cheese paper or wax paper before being placed in an airtight container.

Additionally, freezing shredded cheese can further extend its shelf life. Frozen shredded cheese should be consumed within six months of purchase. However, it is important to note that freezing may affect the texture of some cheeses, such as soft cheeses like mozzarella.

In conclusion, hard cheese generally lasts longer than soft cheese due to its lower moisture content, which inhibits bacterial growth. Proper storage methods and freezing can also help extend the shelf life of both hard and soft cheeses.

Unopened hard cheese doesn't need to be refrigerated

The length of time a bag of shredded cheese lasts depends on a few factors. Firstly, it is important to note that there are no laws requiring food manufacturers to put date labels on foods. Therefore, the labels on shredded cheese bags are put there voluntarily and are simply the manufacturer's estimate of when the product will taste its best. As such, shredded cheese can often still be eaten after its expiration date, as long as it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage.

Once opened, the type of shredded cheese will determine how long it lasts. Hard cheeses like parmesan and Swiss should be eaten within a month of purchase, whereas soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella will only last for one to two weeks. If you freeze your bag of shredded cheese, it is recommended to eat it within six months from the date of purchase.

However, regardless of the date on the bag, it is important to use your best judgment before consuming shredded cheese. If you notice any strange odors, discolouring, or spots of mold, the cheese has likely spoiled and should not be eaten.

Now, to address your specific question about unopened hard cheese:

Unopened hard cheese, such as blocks of hard cheese, does not require refrigeration. This is because hard cheeses contain less moisture than soft cheeses, making them less prone to spoilage from bacteria. However, while unopened hard cheese doesn't need to be refrigerated, it will last much longer if it is stored in a refrigerator. At room temperature, hard cheese will typically last for about 6 months. On the other hand, if stored in a refrigerator, hard cheese can last for several months to years, depending on the variety. For example, an unopened block of Parmigiano Reggiano can last for 9 months in the fridge, while an unopened block of Pecorino Romano can last for 8-10 months.

To ensure that your unopened hard cheese lasts as long as possible, there are a few storage tips to keep in mind. Firstly, the cheese should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Ideally, the storage temperature should be between 50°F and 60°F (10°C and 15°C). Additionally, the cheese should be wrapped in a breathable material such as wax, parchment, or cheese paper, rather than plastic wrap, to prevent it from drying out. Finally, it is important to regularly inspect the cheese for any signs of mold or spoilage, as even unopened cheese can eventually go bad.

Signs of spoilage: mould, bad smell, texture change

Mould, a bad smell, and a change in texture are all signs that your shredded cheese has spoiled and should not be eaten.

Mould is a surefire indicator that your cheese has gone bad. If you spot any patches of blue, green, or other discoloured mould on your shredded cheese, it's best to discard it. While some advise that it is safe to cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the mouldy spots, it is safer to avoid consuming the cheese altogether if you notice any mould growth.

A bad smell is another clear indication that your shredded cheese has spoiled. Cheese naturally has a strong odour, but if it begins to smell sweaty, like chlorine, or like ammonia, it is likely past its prime and should be discarded.

Changes in texture can also indicate spoilage. If your shredded cheese becomes slimy or develops a fizzy sensation on the tongue, it is best to throw it out. Additionally, if you notice any crystallised patches on your shredded cheese, this could be a sign of spoilage. However, in aged hard cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, and gouda, these white specks or patches are likely calcium lactate crystals and are safe to consume.

It is important to note that the shelf life of shredded cheese varies depending on the type of cheese and how it is stored. Hard cheeses like parmesan and Swiss typically last up to a month after opening, while soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella have a shorter shelf life of about one to two weeks. Proper storage, such as keeping the cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator, can help extend the shelf life of shredded cheese.

Freeze shredded cheese to make it last longer

Shredded cheese is a great way to make quick and easy meals, but it can be hard to get through a whole bag before it goes bad. Luckily, you can freeze shredded cheese to make it last longer! Here are some tips to help you freeze shredded cheese effectively:

Choosing the Right Cheese

Not all cheeses freeze well. Hard or semi-hard cheeses with low moisture content, such as cheddar, Swiss, or Parmesan, are ideal for freezing. Soft cheeses with high water content, like mozzarella or burrata, are not suitable for freezing as they are more likely to form ice crystals.

Preparing the Cheese for Freezing

To prepare shredded cheese for freezing, start by shredding a block of cheese or purchasing pre-shredded cheese. You can add cornstarch to the shredded cheese to prevent it from sticking together. Place the shredded cheese in a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal the bag tightly. You can also double bag the cheese to reduce freezer burn.

Storing the Cheese

Label the freezer bag with the type of cheese and the date it was frozen. Frozen shredded cheese can be stored for up to six months. It's important to note that the quality of the cheese may start to decline after two to three months.

Thawing and Using the Cheese

When you're ready to use the frozen shredded cheese, thaw it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before consuming it. It's best to use the cheese for cooking, such as in casseroles, sauces, or gratins, as the texture may be slightly different after freezing. The cheese can also be melted directly into hot dishes without thawing.

By following these steps, you can extend the shelf life of shredded cheese and enjoy it for longer!

Frequently asked questions