Cheese Lifespan: How Long Does It Last?

Cheese is a beloved dairy product that is nutritious, versatile, and tasty. When stored in the refrigerator, its shelf life depends on factors like moisture content, storage practices, and preservatives. Soft cheeses like feta, ricotta, and mozzarella tend to spoil faster, typically lasting about 1-2 weeks in the fridge. In contrast, hard cheeses like aged cheddar, aged gouda, and parmesan have a longer shelf life of 3-4 weeks due to their lower moisture content. Proper storage methods, such as wrapping cheese in breathable materials and maintaining a fridge temperature below 40°F, can also help extend the cheese's freshness. Freezing cheese is generally not recommended, especially for soft varieties, as it can alter their delicate texture.

Soft cheeses last 1-2 weeks in the fridge

Soft cheeses typically last between one and two weeks in the fridge. This is because they have a high moisture content, which provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. As such, they are more perishable than harder cheeses. Soft cheeses include ricotta, feta, mozzarella, and cottage cheese.

To maximise their shelf life, soft cheeses should be stored properly. For instance, cheese sold in brine, like feta or fresh mozzarella, should be kept in the liquid with a secure lid. Blue cheese, meanwhile, can be wrapped in foil. Soft-ripened cheese, such as Brie, has a delicate rind, so requires extra care. It is best wrapped in cheese paper but can also be stored in parchment paper inside an airtight container.

It is important to note that the shelf life of soft cheese is short, so proper storage is key to getting the most out of the product. While soft cheese will last around one week in the fridge, its quality and taste will be at their best before this time is up.

A wedge of cheese starts to decline the moment it is cut, and it will not improve in flavour or texture in the fridge. Therefore, it is recommended to buy cheese for the week ahead.

Hard cheeses last 3-4 weeks in the fridge

Hard cheeses, such as aged cheddar, aged Gouda, and Parmigiano Reggiano, have a longer shelf life than soft cheeses because they contain less moisture, making it difficult for bacteria to flourish. Therefore, once opened, a package of hard cheese can last about 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. According to the USDA, unopened packages of hard cheese will last about six months.

To store hard cheese in the refrigerator, first, remove the cheese from its plastic packaging. Then, wrap it loosely in cheese paper or wax paper. Finally, put the cheese in a container with an airtight lid.

It's important to note that hard cheeses can develop mold over time. If you notice any mold on your hard cheese, simply cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the affected area. Most molds are benign, and even if you accidentally ingest a small amount, you will likely be fine. However, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Additionally, white specks or crystallized patches on certain aged hard cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, and Gouda are normal and safe to eat. These spots are most likely not mold but calcium lactate crystals, which form when the lactic acid in the cheese combines with calcium.

Freezing cheese is not recommended

While freezing cheese can be a convenient way to prolong its shelf life, it is not recommended due to the detrimental effects on its texture and quality.

Freezing cheese can cause its texture to become drier, crumbly, and mealy. This is because when cheese is frozen, small ice crystals form on the inside, disrupting its internal structure. When the cheese is subsequently thawed, water is released, resulting in a drier product. The impact of freezing and thawing is more pronounced in soft and semi-soft cheeses, as they have a higher moisture content. Thus, harder and semi-hard cheeses with lower moisture and higher fat contents are more suitable for freezing.

Additionally, freezing can affect the meltability of cheese. For example, mozzarella that has been frozen for an extended period may not melt as well as mozzarella that has been frozen for a shorter duration. Freezing can also halt the ripening process in cheeses with beneficial, active mold populations, such as blue cheese and Camembert.

Furthermore, freezing cheese can make it more challenging to slice. It is recommended to consume frozen cheese in cooked dishes where changes in texture are less noticeable, such as sauces, pizzas, or grilled cheese sandwiches.

Overall, while freezing cheese can be a viable option to extend its shelf life and reduce waste, it is generally not recommended due to the potential negative impact on its texture, quality, and flavour.

Cheese can be stored in wax, parchment or cheese paper

Cheese is a living, breathing thing, and closing it off to air is one of the worst things you can do to it. Plastic wrap has a taste, and it takes just a day for that flavour to start making its way into the cheese.

Cheese paper is the best way to store your cheese. It allows the cheese to breathe while maintaining optimal humidity, preventing the cheese from drying out. It keeps your cheese tasting fresher for longer.

The next best thing is to wrap your cheese first in parchment or waxed paper, and then loosely in plastic wrap or a plastic bag. This method provides breathability for the cheese without drying it out.

To wrap your cheese in waxed paper, place the paper flat on your counter and arrange the wedge on top. Bring the edges of the paper up and around the cheese, creasing as you go to make neat, clean folds. You can use tape to secure it if you like. Then, add another layer of protection with a loose layer of plastic wrap or a plastic bag to keep fridge odours from seeping into your cheese.

Signs of spoilage include mould, dryness, and a yeasty or ammonia smell

The shelf life of cheese depends on a variety of factors, including moisture content, storage practices, and preservatives. Soft cheeses tend to spoil more quickly than hard cheeses because they have a higher moisture content, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive. This means that proper storage is key to extending the shelf life of soft cheeses.

In addition to mould, dryness is another sign that your cheese has gone bad. This is more common in harder cheeses, which tend to dry out before they develop mould. A bitter flavour, fermented fruit taste, and a fizzy sensation on the tongue are other indications that your cheese has spoiled.

Trust your senses when it comes to determining whether your cheese is safe to eat. Look for visual signs of spoilage, use your nose to detect unpleasant odours, and be aware of any changes in taste or texture. Remember, cheese will usually become unpalatable long before it becomes dangerous, so there's no need to panic if you accidentally consume a small amount of mouldy cheese.

Frequently asked questions