Feta Cheese: How Long Does It Stay Fresh?

Feta cheese is a versatile ingredient, adding a burst of flavour to a wide array of dishes. But how long does a block of feta cheese last?

Feta cheese storage methods

Feta cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient, but it's perishable, so storing it correctly is essential to make it last longer and maintain its quality. Here are some detailed storage methods to keep your feta cheese fresh:

Storing Unopened Feta Cheese:

• Original Packaging: If your feta cheese is unopened, it's best to leave it in its original sealed packaging. This could be in brine, a saltwater solution that preserves texture and flavour, or vacuum-sealed plastic wrap.
• Refrigeration: Regardless of the packaging, it's crucial to store unopened feta cheese in the refrigerator. A consistent temperature is essential to maintaining its freshness.

Storing Opened Feta Cheese:

• Airtight Containers: Once the feta cheese package is opened, transfer the cheese to an airtight container. This will reduce air exposure and help maintain freshness.
• Brine Solution: To extend the shelf life of opened feta cheese, submerge it in a brine solution. Brine is a combination of water and salt that preserves the cheese and enhances its flavour. Make sure the cheese is completely covered by the brine.
• Refrigeration: Just like unopened feta, opened feta cheese should be stored in the refrigerator. Place the airtight container with the feta and brine in the fridge.
• Freezing: If you want to store feta cheese for an even longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag. Frozen feta can last for several months, but it's best used within one month.
• Alternative Storage Options: If you don't want to use brine, you can store leftover feta cheese in olive oil with herbs. This method also helps preserve the cheese and can enhance its flavour.

General Tips for Storing Feta Cheese:

• Cleanliness: When handling feta cheese, ensure that your hands, utensils, and cutting boards are clean to prevent contamination.
• Minimise Air Exposure: After cutting or using a portion of the cheese, wrap the remaining block tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air.
• Check for Spoilage: Before consuming feta cheese, check for any signs of spoilage, such as mould, discolouration, off smells, or texture changes. If you notice any of these indicators, discard the cheese.

How long does feta cheese last in the freezer?

Feta cheese is a versatile dairy product that can be frozen to extend its shelf life. However, it is important to note that freezing may alter the texture of the cheese, making it crumbly.

When it comes to freezing feta cheese, it is recommended to wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag. Frozen feta can last for several months in the freezer, but it is best to use it within one month for optimal taste and texture. To thaw the frozen cheese, it should be slowly defrosted in the refrigerator before use.

Freezing feta cheese is not the preferred method of storage by some experts. Dean Sommer, a cheese and food technologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Center for Dairy Research, advises against freezing feta cheese as it can destroy the texture of the cheese, making it overly crumbly even after gentle thawing.

Instead of freezing, Sommer recommends storing feta cheese in a liquid salt brine to extend its shelf life. By completely submerging the cheese in brine and ensuring no contamination, feta can last for up to six months if stored correctly. Additionally, feta cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for 5-7 days if sealed tightly, or for about a month if submerged in brine.

How to identify spoiled feta cheese

Feta cheese is a popular dairy product with a rich cultural heritage and distinctive culinary attributes. It is praised for its tangy flavour and crumbly texture. However, feta cheese is a perishable product, and identifying spoiled feta cheese is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure food safety. Here are some detailed guidelines on how to identify spoiled feta cheese:

Check for Discolouration

Fresh feta cheese typically exhibits a white to off-white colour. One of the clearest signs of spoilage is the presence of discolouration, such as green or black spots, which indicates mould growth. If you notice any dark spots or areas on the surface of the cheese, discard it immediately as it is no longer safe for consumption.

Examine the Texture

A fresh feta cheese should have a slightly creamy and crumbly texture. If the cheese appears excessively slimy or develops a dry, hard exterior, this suggests that it has gone bad. Feta cheese that is spoiling will also start to crumble on its own. Avoid consuming the cheese if you notice any significant changes in texture.

Smell the Cheese

Feta cheese is characterised by its tangy and briny scent. However, if the cheese has spoiled, it will emit a sour or foul odour that differs from its typical aroma. An off-putting smell that is vastly different from its usual fragrance could indicate spoilage. If the feta cheese smells unpleasant or unusually strong, it is best to discard it.

Be Aware of Harsh, Unbalanced Flavours

Feta cheese is known for its fresh and mildly tangy flavour profile. If your feta tastes overly bitter, rancid, or has harsh, unbalanced flavours, it has likely surpassed its prime. A slight acidic odour is normal for feta, but if it becomes overwhelmingly strong, it is a sign that the cheese is no longer safe to eat.

Look for Yeasty Aroma

According to cheese and food technologist Dean Sommer, yeasts tend to be acid and salt tolerant, making feta cheese a perfect growth medium. If your feta starts to smell like proofed bread dough, it indicates the presence of yeast, and the product has gone bad.

Observe for Mould Growth

Mould growth is a common issue with feta cheese due to its moist nature. If you see any spots of greenish mould on the cheese, discard the entire block. Do not attempt to scrape off the mould, as it can easily permeate the cheese. Mould growth can lead to food safety hazards, so it is crucial to take immediate action and discard the contaminated cheese.

Check for Expiration Date

While expiration dates are not always accurate, they can serve as an initial guideline for determining cheese freshness. Feta cheese that has exceeded its expiration date or is showing signs of spoilage should be discarded to mitigate health risks. Always prioritise food safety over consumption to prevent food poisoning.

In summary, identifying spoiled feta cheese is crucial to ensure food safety and maintain its distinct flavour and texture. By following these guidelines and regularly checking for spoilage indicators, you can confidently enjoy this versatile and cherished dairy product.

Best practices for handling feta cheese

Feta cheese is a versatile dairy product with a rich cultural heritage and distinctive culinary attributes. To ensure its longevity and safety, proper handling and storage are essential. Here are some best practices for handling feta cheese:

Proper Handling Techniques:

• Transport feta cheese in a cool environment and place it in the refrigerator as soon as possible after purchasing.
• Ensure that your hands, utensils, and cutting boards are clean before using feta cheese to prevent contamination.
• Use a clean fork or spoon to handle crumbled feta, avoiding direct contact with fingers.
• Wrap the remaining cheese block tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air after cutting.

Maximizing Shelf Life:

• Store feta cheese at a constant refrigerator temperature, ideally below 40°F (4°C).
• Submerge feta blocks or crumbles in brine to extend their freshness for up to a month.
• Store leftover cheese blocks in a brine solution or olive oil with herbs in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Crumbled feta can be kept in its original packaging if unopened; if opened, transfer it to a similar airtight container, sealing tightly to reduce air exposure.
• Feta cheese in brine can last from a few weeks to several months beyond its sell-by date under optimal storage conditions.

Incorporating Feta in Recipes:

• Feta cheese is versatile and can be used in salads, pizzas, dips, spreads, baked dishes, and as a garnish.
• Its distinct flavor can either take center stage or enhance another ingredient's taste when used as a garnish.
• For baked dishes, add feta on top of a pizza or into a baking sheet with vegetables to allow it to soften and meld flavors.
• In salads or as a garnish, crumbled feta introduces a salty and tangy profile, pairing well with fresh greens and vinaigrettes.

Freezing Feta Cheese:

• Feta cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life, but it may alter the texture.
• To freeze, wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Frozen feta is best used within 1 month and should be thawed in the refrigerator before use.
• The texture of frozen feta may become crumbly, making it more suitable for cooked dishes like sauces, soups, and casseroles.

By following these best practices for handling and storing feta cheese, you can maximize its shelf life and enjoy its distinct flavor and texture in a variety of dishes.

Feta cheese alternatives

Feta cheese is a unique cheese with a distinct tangy, salty flavour and a firm, crumbly texture. It is often associated with Greek cuisine and is commonly used in salads, pastries, and as a topping for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes.

If you're looking for an alternative to feta cheese, there are several suitable options, both dairy and non-dairy:

Dairy Alternatives

• Halloumi has a similar texture to feta, although it is slightly softer and less crumbly. It also provides a similar salty taste.
• Persian Feta is a softer, creamier, and less salty alternative to traditional Greek feta. It is marinated in oil, herbs, and garlic, giving it a distinct flavour.
• Ricotta Salata is an Italian cheese made from pressed and aged ricotta. It has a mild, slightly salty taste and a crumbly texture similar to feta, making it a great substitute when you want a milder, yet crumbly cheese.
• Goat Cheese is a suitable alternative due to its similarities in texture and tangy flavour. It is creamier and tangier than feta, but it can work well in Mediterranean dishes and salads.
• Labneh is a strained yogurt cheese with a thick, creamy texture and a mild, tangy flavour. It is a versatile option that can be used in Mediterranean and non-Mediterranean dishes, such as dips, dressings, or as a spread.
• Gorgonzola is an Italian blue cheese with a strong, tangy, and slightly sharp flavour. It has a creamy, crumbly texture similar to feta. It can be used as a substitute in salads, creamy pasta sauces, or stuffed pastries where a bolder cheese flavour is desired.
• Panela is a fresh Mexican cheese with a mild, slightly tangy taste. It has a similar crumbly texture to feta but lacks its characteristic saltiness. It works well in salads, grilled vegetables, or stuffed peppers.
• Parmesan has a vastly different flavour profile from feta, with a nutty, salty, and savory taste. However, it can be used sparingly to add umami and a salty kick to dishes like salads, pasta, or Mediterranean recipes.
• Cottage Cheese is a fresh, curdy, and moist cheese with a mild, creamy flavour. It is not an ideal substitute for Mediterranean dishes but can be used in some recipes where its creaminess complements the other ingredients.

Non-Dairy Alternatives

• Vegan Feta Cheese is a great alternative for those looking for a dairy-free option. It mimics the crumbly texture and tangy, salty flavour of traditional feta, although it may be slightly creamier. It works well in vegan Greek salads or as a topping for vegan pizza.
• Soy-Based Feta is specifically designed to mimic the flavour and texture of traditional feta cheese. It has a tangy, creamy consistency and can be used in place of feta in Greek salads, pastries, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.
• Almond Feta is engineered to closely resemble feta cheese in both taste and texture, although there may be subtle differences depending on the brand. It is a straightforward swap for salads, wraps, or as a topping for Mediterranean dishes.
• Hemp Tofu has a nutty and earthy flavour with a creamy texture similar to tofu. While it doesn't have the same tang as feta, it provides a satisfying creaminess that can be used in salads, wraps, or Mediterranean-style dishes. It can also be marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and salt to enhance its resemblance to marinated feta.
• Olives provide a similar briny and salty flavour to feta, although their texture is much firmer. They can add a Mediterranean twist to your cooking.
• Nutritional Yeast has a cheese-like, umami flavour that can replicate the salty and tangy notes of feta to some extent. However, it is dry and flaky, lacking the creamy texture of feta, so it is better suited for vegan or dairy-free recipes where a sprinkle of feta-like taste is needed.
• Hummus adds a creamy and savory component to dishes, making it suitable for vegan or Mediterranean recipes. It has a rich, earthy flavour and works well as a dip, spread, or creamy element in Mediterranean-style wraps and bowls.
• Avocado is a healthier, dairy-free alternative to feta cheese. It has a creamy, buttery texture and a mild, nutty taste. Adding a squeeze of lemon or lime juice can give it a tangier flavour. It works well in salads and wraps.

Frequently asked questions