Aged Cheese: How Long Does It Stay Fresh?

Cheese is a beloved staple in many kitchens, but it's not always clear how long it lasts in the fridge. The shelf life of cheese depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, moisture content, storage practices, and preservatives. Generally, harder, aged cheeses with lower moisture content tend to last longer than softer varieties. Unopened hard cheeses like Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda can be stored in the fridge for several months to even a year, while soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert typically last for a few weeks to a couple of months. Once opened, soft cheeses should be consumed within a week to two weeks, while hard cheeses can last three to four weeks. Proper storage is crucial, and cheese should be wrapped in breathable material like cheese paper, parchment paper, or wax paper and kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Freezing cheese is not recommended as it can alter its flavor and texture.

How long does unopened aged cheese last in the fridge?

Unopened aged cheese can last for a long time in the fridge. The exact duration depends on the type of cheese, the moisture content, and the storage method.

Hard cheeses, such as Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda, have a lower moisture content, which helps extend their shelf life. Unopened hard cheeses can last for several months and even up to a year when stored in the fridge. For example, unopened blocks of hard cheese can last for about six months in the fridge.

On the other hand, soft cheeses, such as Brie and Camembert, have a shorter shelf life. Unopened soft cheeses typically last for a few weeks to a couple of months past their 'best by' date when refrigerated.

It is important to note that the 'best before' or 'sell by' dates on cheese are guidelines for quality rather than safety. Cheese often remains safe to eat beyond these dates if it is stored correctly.

To ensure the longevity of unopened aged cheese in the fridge, it is recommended to store it properly. Cheese should be wrapped in a breathable material like cheese paper, parchment paper, or wax paper. It should then be placed in an airtight container and stored in the coldest part of the fridge.

How long does opened aged cheese last in the fridge?

The shelf life of opened aged cheese in the fridge depends on its moisture content and storage method. Firmer, aged cheeses with lower moisture content can last for a long time in the fridge—approximately four weeks according to some sources, and two months or more according to others.

Aged cheeses are less prone to spoilage from bacteria due to their low moisture content. However, it's important to note that once an aged cheese is removed from its original packaging and exposed to air, its shelf life will decline. To extend the shelf life of opened aged cheese, it should be wrapped in wax, parchment, or cheese paper and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Additionally, the temperature of your fridge is crucial in preserving aged cheese. A safe fridge temperature is below 40°F (4°C). Higher temperatures significantly increase the rate at which bacteria multiply, leading to faster spoilage.

When it comes to determining if your opened aged cheese has gone bad, there are several signs to look out for:

• Visible mold: Cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below any moldy spots. Aged cheeses can be partially saved if mold is present.
• Unpleasant odour: Cheese should have a characteristic smell related to its type. If it smells sour, rancid, or like ammonia, it has likely gone bad.
• Changes in texture: Cheese that has gone bad may become overly dry, crumbly, or slimy.
• Discolouration: Significant changes in colour, such as yellowing or browning, can indicate spoilage.
• Off-flavours: Taste a small amount of the cheese. If it has an off or sour flavour, it has likely spoiled and should not be consumed.

In summary, by storing opened aged cheese properly in the fridge and monitoring it for signs of spoilage, you can safely enjoy this delicacy for several weeks to months.

How to store aged cheese in the fridge

Aged cheese can be stored in the fridge for a long time, but it's important to follow some best practices to ensure the cheese stays fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips on how to store aged cheese in the fridge:

Choose the Right Storage Materials

Avoid wrapping aged cheese in tight, non-porous materials like plastic wrap. Instead, opt for porous materials that allow the cheese to breathe and release moisture. Cheese paper, wax paper, or parchment paper are ideal. These materials help prevent the cheese from drying out and preserve its texture and flavour. If using parchment paper, consider wrapping the cheese in paper first and then placing it in a Ziploc bag or plastic wrap to reduce air permeation.

Store in an Airtight Container

Once you've wrapped the cheese, place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain the optimal humidity levels and prevent the cheese from drying out or becoming contaminated.

Maintain Optimal Fridge Temperature

Keep your fridge temperature below 40°F (4°C). Higher temperatures increase the rate of bacterial growth, which can lead to spoilage. A fridge thermometer can help you monitor the temperature to ensure it stays within a safe range.

Store Cheese in the Coldest Part of the Fridge

Designate the top or middle shelf, or a drawer, specifically for cheese storage. Keep the cheese away from raw meats, poultry, and fish to avoid cross-contamination.

Inspect the Cheese Regularly

Even with proper storage, mould can still develop on aged cheese. Inspect the cheese regularly and cut off any mouldy parts before consuming. Aged cheese may also develop white specks or crystallized patches, which are typically safe to eat and are a result of calcium lactate crystals forming from the combination of lactic acid and calcium.

Know When to Discard

While mouldy cheese can often be salvaged by cutting off the affected areas, there are times when it's best to discard the cheese entirely. If you notice black or red mould, it's best to throw the cheese away. Additionally, if the cheese develops an ammonia-like odour, becomes overly dry, crumbly, or slimy, or exhibits significant discolouration, it's time to discard it.

By following these tips, you can extend the shelf life of your aged cheese and enjoy it for several weeks or even months. Remember to use your best judgment and when in doubt, it's better to be safe and discard the cheese.

How to tell if aged cheese has gone bad

Aged cheese can last for a long time in the fridge—we're talking months. But even with its impressive shelf life, it's still important to know how to tell if it's gone bad. Here are some ways to identify if your aged cheese has spoiled:

Mould

It's natural for mould to develop on the surface of aged cheese, and it's usually safe to eat. Simply cut off the mouldy part and enjoy the rest of the cheese. However, if you notice red or black mould, it's best to discard the entire cheese as these could indicate a more serious issue.

Texture

Aged cheese that has gone bad may exhibit changes in texture. It may become overly dry, crumbly, or slimy. If you notice these changes, it's best to discard the cheese.

Discolouration

Significant changes in colour, such as yellowing or browning, can indicate spoilage. If your cheese has changed colour significantly, it's best to throw it out.

Taste and Smell

Trust your senses. If the cheese smells sour, rancid, or like ammonia, it's likely spoiled. Similarly, if you taste a small amount and it has an off or sour flavour, it's best to discard it.

It's important to note that white specks or crystallised patches on certain aged hard cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, and gouda are normal and safe to eat. These spots are usually not mould but calcium lactate crystals, which form when the lactic acid in the cheese combines with calcium.

How to serve aged cheese

Aged cheese is a delicious treat, and serving it correctly will elevate the experience. Here are some tips on how to serve aged cheese:

Storage

Firstly, it is important to store your cheese correctly to ensure it lasts as long as possible and maintains its quality. Aged cheese should be wrapped loosely in a breathable material such as wax paper or cheese paper. Then, place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature for your fridge is below 40°F (4°C).

Serving Suggestions

Aged cheese can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preference and the type of cheese you have. Here are some suggestions:

• Baked: Baked cheese is a popular option, especially during the holidays. You can bake a wheel of hard cheese such as Camembert or Brie in the oven at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes. Top the cheese with ingredients such as fruit, nuts, or honey before baking.
• Dips: Baked cheese can also be served as a dip for bread, vegetables, or crackers. French cheeses like Brie and Camembert are excellent choices for baking, but you can also try fresh or brined cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese.
• Appetizers: Cheese Crisps or Frico are thin wafers made from hard cheeses such as cheddar, asiago, or Parmigiano Reggiano. These can be made ahead of time and paired with wine or cocktails.
• Salads: Consider adding warm, crispy baked cheese croutons to a fresh summer salad.
• Skewers: Threading aged cheese onto skewers is a great way to serve it at a party or cookout. Try pairing the cheese with garlic butter, vegetables, and a sweet and spicy Korean BBQ sauce.
• Sandwiches: Aged cheese can be a delicious addition to sandwiches, such as a grilled cheese or a Cuban sandwich.
• Accompaniments: When serving aged cheese as an appetizer or snack, consider pairing it with crusty bread, boiled new potatoes, grapes, cranberry sauce, apple slices, carrot sticks, or gherkins.

Food Safety

When serving aged cheese, it is important to inspect it for any signs of spoilage. Aged cheese can last for several weeks to a couple of months in the refrigerator if stored correctly. However, if you notice any mould, an unusual texture, discolouration, or a sour smell, it is best to discard the cheese.

Frequently asked questions