Cheese Storage: Cubed Cheese's Shelf Life Explained

Cubed cheese is a convenient way to buy and store cheese, but how long does it last? The shelf life of cubed cheese varies depending on the type of cheese and how it is stored. Harder cheeses like cheddar will last longer, up to 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator once opened, while softer cheeses like mozzarella should be consumed within one to two weeks. Proper storage is key to extending the shelf life of cubed cheese, with experts recommending wrapping the cheese in parchment paper or cheese cloth to allow it to breathe, and storing it in the refrigerator at 40°F or lower.

How Long Does Cubed Cheese Last?

Cubed cheese storage

Cubed cheese is a convenient way to store and snack on cheese. However, it's important to know how to store it properly to maintain its freshness and quality. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store cubed cheese:

Refrigerator Storage:

It is essential to keep cubed cheese refrigerated at all times. Store the cheese in the original packaging or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, aluminium foil, or wax/parchment paper before placing it in the fridge. Aim for a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or lower. The shelf life of cubed cheese in the refrigerator depends on the type of cheese:

• Hard Cheeses (e.g., Parmesan, Asiago, Cheddar): Lasts for 2 to 4 months unopened and about 6 weeks once opened.
• Semi-Hard Cheeses (e.g., Gouda, Cheddar): Unopened, it can last for 2 to 4 months. Once opened, consume within 2 to 4 weeks.
• Soft Cheeses (e.g., Cream Cheese, Mozzarella): Consume within 1 to 2 weeks of opening.

Freezer Storage:

If you want to extend the shelf life of cubed cheese, freezing is an option. Cut the cheese into small portions, wrap them tightly, and place them in heavy-duty freezer bags. Frozen cheese will maintain its best quality for about 6 to 8 months but will remain safe beyond that. However, freezing may alter the texture and taste of the cheese, making it more suitable for cooked dishes.

Signs of Spoilage:

It's important to regularly check your cubed cheese for any signs of spoilage:

• Hard Texture: Cheese that is going bad will often develop a very hard texture.
• Discolouration: A darker colour can indicate that the cheese is spoiling.
• Strong Smell: A sharp, unpleasant odour can signify spoilage.
• Mould: The presence of mould, especially red or black mould, indicates that the cheese should be discarded. For firmer cheeses, you can cut away the mouldy part and an inch around it and still use the rest.

In summary, proper storage of cubed cheese involves keeping it refrigerated, wrapped, or sealed, and being mindful of its shelf life based on the type of cheese. Freezing is an option for long-term storage, but it may affect the cheese's texture and taste. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

How long does cubed cheddar cheese last?

Cheddar cheese is considered a semi-hard cheese, and when stored properly in the fridge, an unopened package can last between two and four months. However, once the package is opened, the cheese will only last for about six weeks in the refrigerator. To maximise the shelf life of a chunk of cheddar cheese after opening, wrap the original packaging tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. For even better results, wrap the cheese first in wax or parchment paper and then cover with plastic wrap before refrigerating.

If you want to extend the shelf life of cheddar cheese, you can freeze it. When freezing, cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound each and wrap tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen in this way, cheddar cheese will maintain its best quality for about six to eight months, but it will remain safe to consume beyond that time.

How can you tell if cheddar cheese has gone bad? Cheddar cheese that is going bad will typically develop a very hard texture, will darken in colour, will develop a strong smell and mould may appear. If mould appears, cut away at least one inch around and below the mouldy area (do not touch the mould with the knife) and recover the cheese in fresh wrap.

Cubed cheese shelf life

The shelf life of cubed cheese depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, how it's stored, and its processing method.

Harder, aged cheeses like Parmesan, Asiago, Romano, and Beaufort generally last the longest when stored correctly in the fridge, with an unopened package lasting between two and six months. These cheeses have a longer shelf life because they have less internal moisture, which makes them less perishable. Cheddar, a semi-hard cheese, also falls into this category and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months unopened and six weeks once opened.

On the other hand, soft cheeses like cream cheese, Brie, mozzarella, feta, Gorgonzola, and Camembert contain more moisture, making them more perishable. These cheeses should be consumed within one to two weeks of being opened and stored in the fridge.

To maximize the shelf life of cubed cheese, it's important to store it properly. Cheese should be wrapped gently in parchment paper, cheese cloth, or butcher paper, and placed in the refrigerator at 40°F or lower. It should be stored in its original wrapper or a tightly closed container to keep out moisture and other contaminants. Freezing cheese is not usually recommended, but if done properly, it can extend the shelf life of harder cheeses like cheddar for up to eight months.

It's important to note that cheese will not magically go bad overnight. Your senses will be the best indicator when cheese has gone bad. Signs of spoilage include mold, dryness, a strong smell, drastic changes in texture, and a yeasty or ammonia smell. Harder cheeses can be salvaged by cutting away at least one inch around and below the moldy area, while softer cheeses should be discarded entirely if mold is present.

Signs of spoiled cubed cheese

It's important to know the signs of spoiled cheese to avoid food poisoning and other adverse health effects. Here are some detailed indicators to help you identify when cubed cheese has gone bad:

Appearance

Spoiled cheese may exhibit changes in its physical appearance. Look for any signs of fuzzy or furry growths on the surface of the cheese, typically in green, blue, or white colours. These are moulds, and they indicate that your cheese has gone bad.

Colour

A change in colour is another visual clue. For example, if your cheddar cheese is turning yellowish or greyish, rather than its original creamy white, it's time to discard it.

Texture

Spoiled cheese often has a different texture compared to fresh cheese. A formerly firm block of cheese may become slimy, sticky, or wet to the touch. On the other hand, hard cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino may develop a tough, dry texture or start crumbling apart easily.

Taste

When cheese goes bad, bacteria and mould break down proteins and fats, causing off-flavours. Hard cheeses become overly sharp and crumbly, soft cheeses develop an ammonia-like taste, and blue cheeses turn excessively bitter.

Smell

Trust your nose! If the cheese smells sour, ammonia-like, or just plain funky, it’s likely past its prime. A strong, off-putting odour indicates that harmful bacteria have taken over.

Type of cheese

Consider the type of cheese you're dealing with. Some cheeses, like Brie or Camembert, naturally have a soft, runny texture. Use your best judgment and look for multiple signs of spoilage before making a decision.

Storage

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining cheese quality. If your cheese has been left out at room temperature or stored in airtight containers, it may have gone bad. Cross-contamination can also cause cheese to spoil, so store cheese away from strong-smelling foods or spoiled items.

In summary, spoiled cheese will exhibit multiple signs, including changes in appearance, colour, texture, taste, and smell. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and discard the cheese to avoid potential health risks.

Extending cubed cheese shelf life

Cubed cheese is a semi-hard cheese, which means that it will not last as long as hard cheeses but will still have a longer shelf life than soft cheeses. When stored properly in the fridge, an unopened package of cubed cheese can last between two and four months. However, once the package is opened, the cheese will only be good for about three to four weeks in the refrigerator.

• Store the cheese in the refrigerator at all times: Cubed cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F. Make sure to use the cheese within two hours of taking it out of the fridge, as it will quickly degrade as its temperature increases.
• Maximize the shelf life of the cheese by wrapping it: To maximize the shelf life of cubed cheese, wrap the original packaging tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For even better results, wrap the cheese first in wax or parchment paper and then cover it with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
• Keep the cheese in its original wrapper or a tightly closed container: Store the cheese either in its original wrapper or a tightly closed container to keep out moisture and other contaminants.
• Freeze the cheese: To further extend the shelf life of cubed cheese, you can freeze it. Cut the cheese into portions no larger than 1/2 pound each and wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place them inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, cubed cheese will maintain its best quality for about six to eight months in the freezer but will remain safe beyond that time.
• Be mindful of the signs of spoilage: Keep an eye out for common signs of spoilage in cheese, such as mold, dryness, a strong smell, or a darker color. If you see any of these signs, it's best to discard the cheese.

Frequently asked questions