Shredded Cheese: How Long Does It Stay Fresh?

Cheese is a tasty, nutritious, and versatile food item that can be shredded from a block and stored in the fridge. The shelf life of cheese depends on the type of cheese and how it is stored. Soft cheeses tend to spoil faster than hard varieties. For example, hard cheeses like parmesan and Swiss can be eaten within a month of purchase, while soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella are only good for one to two weeks. Shredded cheese, whether store-bought or homemade, typically lasts for 3 to 5 days in the fridge. To extend its shelf life, shredded cheese can be frozen, typically lasting for up to six months.

Store-bought shredded cheese lasts 3-5 days after opening

Store-bought shredded cheese will last 3-5 days after opening the package. This is true for both hard and soft cheeses. For example, hard cheeses like parmesan and Swiss should be eaten within a month of purchase, whereas soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella will only be good for one to two weeks. If you need your shredded cheese to last longer, you can freeze it.

It's worth noting that there are no laws requiring food manufacturers to put date labels on foods. The labels you see on shredded cheese are put there voluntarily and are 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've been stored properly.

However, it's important to use your best judgment. If you notice any strange odours, discolouring, or spots of mould on your shredded cheese, don't eat it! These signs mean that the cheese has likely spoiled.

To store shredded cheese, keep it in the fridge in a sealed container or bag. When handling the cheese, make sure your hands are washed, and use a clean spoon to remove it from the container. If you have a large amount, consider separating it into smaller bags or containers.

Additionally, it's important to maintain a safe fridge temperature. A safe temperature is below 40°F (4°C). Higher temperatures significantly increase the rate at which bacteria multiply, which increases the risk of spoilage.

Cheese that you shred yourself will last the same amount of time

However, the type of cheese also plays a role in how long it will last. Hard cheeses, such as Parmesan and Swiss, tend to last longer than softer varieties, like cheddar and mozzarella. This is because hard cheeses have less moisture, so they are less prone to spoilage from bacteria. Hard cheeses can last up to a month in the fridge after being shredded, whereas soft cheeses will only be good for 1-2 weeks.

If you need shredded cheese to keep for longer, it can be frozen. Freezing affects the texture of the cheese slightly, but it will still be safe to eat. Frozen shredded cheese should be consumed within six months.

To maximise the shelf life of shredded cheese, it should be stored in the fridge in a sealed container or bag. When removing cheese from the bag, use a clean spoon or pour it out, and ensure your hands are washed if you need to handle it.

Hard cheeses like parmesan and Swiss should be eaten within a month of purchase

Hard cheeses, such as parmesan and Swiss, are known for their longevity, but even these varieties have a limited shelf life once they are shredded. According to food scientist Janilyn Hutchings, hard shredded cheeses should be consumed within a month of purchase. This is significantly shorter than the lifespan of an unopened block of hard cheese, which can last for up to six months in the fridge.

The shorter lifespan of shredded hard cheese is due to the increased surface area that is exposed to bacteria and oxygen. Shredded cheese also loses quality more quickly, with store-bought shredded cheese lasting only 3-5 days after opening. This is true for both store-bought and homemade shredded cheese. Therefore, it is recommended to only shred what you need for a few days and freeze the rest of the block to maintain freshness.

While hard cheeses can be enjoyed for a few weeks, soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella have a much shorter window. Soft shredded cheeses should be consumed within one to two weeks of purchase.

When dealing with shredded cheese, it is important to use your best judgment. If you notice any unusual odours, discolouration, or spots of mould, it is best to discard the cheese. However, white specks or crystallised patches on hard cheeses like parmesan are typically safe and indicate the presence of calcium lactate crystals, which form through the natural breakdown of cheese.

Soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella will only be good for 1-2 weeks after purchase

Soft cheeses, such as cheddar and mozzarella, are only good for 1-2 weeks after purchase. This is because soft cheeses tend to spoil more quickly than hard cheeses, as they contain more moisture and are therefore more prone to bacterial growth. This means that soft cheeses are best enjoyed fresh, and it is not recommended to buy them in bulk unless you plan on freezing them.

If you do choose to freeze your soft cheeses, they can last for up to 6 months. However, freezing may affect the texture of the cheese, so it is important to consider how you plan to use it. For example, frozen soft cheeses may not melt as smoothly as fresh cheese, so they may not be the best choice for dishes like grilled cheese or pizza.

To maximise the shelf life of soft cheeses, it is important to store them properly. This includes keeping them in a sealed container or bag in the fridge, and only shredding or grating what you need for that day. Additionally, it is important to wash your hands before handling cheese to avoid introducing bacteria.

When it comes to determining if your soft cheese is still safe to eat, there are a few key things to look out for. Firstly, always check for any signs of mould. If you spot any mould, it is best to discard the entire package, as it is not safe to consume. Additionally, if the cheese has developed an unusual odour or seems sour, it is best to throw it out.

In conclusion, soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella have a shorter shelf life compared to hard cheeses, lasting only 1-2 weeks after purchase. To make the most of their freshness, it is important to store them properly and be mindful of any signs of spoilage.

If you need shredded cheese to last longer, freeze it

Shredded cheese is a convenient way to add flavour and texture to a variety of dishes. However, it doesn't last long and can spoil quickly. If you need your shredded cheese to last longer, freezing is a great option. Here are some detailed instructions on how to freeze shredded cheese to extend its shelf life:

Choosing the Right Cheese:

Not all cheeses are suitable for freezing. Hard cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Swiss freeze well due to their lower moisture content. Soft cheeses with high moisture content, such as camembert, brie, ricotta, and cottage cheese, can be frozen but may suffer textural changes.

Preparing the Cheese:

If you're freezing store-bought shredded cheese, ensure it's in its original packaging. For shredded cheese from a block, place it in a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible. Alternatively, you can mix the shredded cheese with cornstarch to prevent it from sticking together, then transfer it to a plastic freezer bag.

Freezing and Storage:

Always label the cheese with the type and date before placing it in the freezer. This helps you keep track of how long it's been frozen. Freeze shredded cheese for up to two months for the best quality. It can be stored indefinitely, but the quality may deteriorate over time.

Thawing and Usage:

When ready to use, slowly thaw the frozen cheese in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent texture changes. Frozen shredded cheese is perfect for melting into casseroles, soups, pasta, or grilled cheese sandwiches. It may not be ideal for serving fresh on a cheese board due to textural changes.

By following these instructions, you can extend the shelf life of shredded cheese and enjoy its convenience and flavour in your favourite dishes for longer.

Frequently asked questions