Dehydrated Cheese: How Long Can You Store It?

Dehydrated cheese is a great way to preserve this dairy product for future use and can be a tasty addition to homemade trail mix, granola, and fruit and nut mixes. Dehydrated cheese can be stored without refrigeration if certain steps are taken.

To dehydrate cheese, it must first be allowed to age for 5-7 days in a refrigerator. After ageing, the cheese is cubed and placed in a dehydrator. Once dehydrated, the cheese can be stored in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.

The shelf life of dehydrated cheese depends on how it is stored. If stored at a stable temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, dehydrated cheese can last up to 15 years. Storing at cooler temperatures can further extend the shelf life. However, if not stored properly, dehydrated cheese can be susceptible to mould, bad odours, and changes in texture and taste.

Dehydrated cheese can last up to 15 years if stored at 70°F

Dehydrated cheese should be stored in a cool, dry place to extend its shelf life. It should be placed in an airtight container, in a cool, dark location, and out of direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for storing dehydrated cheese is 60°F (65°F or lower is even better), and the cooler the temperature, the longer it will last.

Dehydrated cheese can be stored in vacuum-sealed Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers, which may prolong its shelf life to 30 years. Alternatively, it can be stored in glass canning jars with gasket lids, or heavy-duty freezer bags.

However, it's important to note that dehydrated cheese has a high-fat content, which can cause it to go rancid more quickly. Therefore, it may be preferable to purchase commercially dried cheese to ensure safety. Additionally, the National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) has not tested the safety of dehydrating cheese, and does not recommend it for long-term storage due to bacterial issues and the various factors involved in cheese production.

Dehydrated cheese is best stored in a cool, dry place

The best way to store dehydrated cheese is to keep it in a cool, dry place. Dehydrated foods are best stored in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for storing dehydrated cheese is below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit being even better. Storing dehydrated cheese at cooler temperatures will help to extend its shelf life.

In addition to temperature, it is important to control the level of moisture in the storage environment. Moisture can cause dehydrated cheese to spoil, so it is recommended to store it in airtight containers such as glass canning jars or vacuum-sealed bags. Oxygen absorbers can also be used to remove oxygen from the containers, further extending the shelf life of the dehydrated cheese.

By storing dehydrated cheese in a cool, dry place and using airtight containers with oxygen absorbers, you can maximize its shelf life and maintain its quality and nutritional value.

It is worth noting that dehydrated cheese has a shorter shelf life than some other dehydrated foods. Due to its high fat content, dehydrated cheese is more susceptible to rancidity and bacterial growth. Therefore, it is recommended to consume dehydrated cheese within a few months of preparation or purchase. Storing dehydrated cheese in the freezer can also help extend its shelf life.

Dehydrated cheese can be stored in glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags

Another option for storing dehydrated cheese is to use Mylar bags. Mylar bags are rugged, dark, and can be vacuum-sealed. They are a great option if you want to avoid using a sealer, as you can simply put your cheese inside, insert some oxygen absorbers, and seal the bag. The oxygen absorbers will help to suck up any remaining oxygen, creating an airtight environment that will prolong the shelf life of your cheese.

When storing dehydrated cheese, it is important to keep it in a cool, dry, and dark place. Temperature, moisture, oxygen, and light are all factors that can affect the shelf life of your cheese. By storing it in a cool, dry, and dark place, you can help prevent mould and decomposition, and maintain the quality and taste of your cheese.

Additionally, it is important to note that the type of cheese you dehydrate can impact its storage life. Hard cheeses like Parmesan tend to have a longer shelf life than softer cheeses like cheddar or American cheese. This is because softer cheeses have a higher fat content, which can cause them to go rancid more quickly. If you are using a softer cheese, be sure to blot away any excess fat that forms on the surface during and after the dehydration process.

Overall, by using glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags and following proper storage practices, you can extend the shelf life of your dehydrated cheese and enjoy it for months or even years to come.

Dehydrated cheese can be added to trail mix, granola, or salads

Dehydrated cheese is a versatile snack with a long shelf life. It can be added to trail mix, granola, or salads, providing a crunchy texture and a burst of flavour. Here are some tips and ideas for incorporating dehydrated cheese into your snacks and meals:

Trail Mix

Dehydrated cheese is an excellent addition to trail mix, providing protein, minerals, and vitamins to keep you energised during hikes or outdoor activities. Combine it with dried fruits, nuts, and seeds for a nutritious and delicious snack. You can dehydrate cheese at home by grating it and placing it in a dehydrator for 6-12 hours, or until crispy.

Granola

Dehydrated cheese can also be added to granola for a savoury twist. Simply mix it into your favourite granola recipe after it has cooled, or sprinkle it on top of yogurt or oatmeal for a cheesy crunch. Dehydrated cheese adds texture and flavour to your breakfast or snack, making it a satisfying option.

Salads

Instead of croutons, dehydrated cheese cubes can be added to tossed salads or Greek salads. They provide a similar crunch but with a cheesy flavour. You can also crumble dehydrated cheese over pasta dishes or casseroles to add texture and flavour. For a more subtle cheesy touch, try using a cheese grater to create thin, crispy cheese wafers that can be crumbled over salads or soups.

Other Uses

Dehydrated cheese has a variety of other uses as well. It can be ground into a powder and used as a seasoning for popcorn, or added to biscuit or pizza dough for an extra cheesy kick. It can also be rehydrated and used in sauces or casseroles, providing a melted cheese texture and flavour.

Storage

To extend the shelf life of dehydrated cheese, store it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag in a cool, dry place. It can also be refrigerated or frozen for even longer shelf life. With proper storage, dehydrated cheese can last for several months, or even longer if vacuum-sealed.

Dehydrated cheese can be ground into a powder and used as a seasoning

Dehydrating Cheese:

To dehydrate cheese, cut your cheese into 1/2-inch cubes after it has aged for 5 to 7 days in the fridge. Place the cubes in a single layer on a dehydrator tray. Rotate the trays every 12 hours and test for doneness. The cheese is ready when it is hard and crunchy and may be lightly browned.

Storing Dehydrated Cheese:

Dehydrated cheese can be stored in a cool, dry place and will last for several months. For longer storage, you can vacuum seal the cheese or store it in airtight containers. The shelf life of dehydrated cheese is proportional to the storage temperature; it will last longer if stored at cooler temperatures.

Grinding Dehydrated Cheese into Powder:

Once your dehydrated cheese is ready, you can grind it into a fine powder using a spice grinder or food processor. Make sure to let the cheese cool completely before grinding to ensure the best results.

Using Dehydrated Cheese Powder:

The cheese powder has a variety of uses. You can use it as a seasoning on popcorn, add it to dough for cheese biscuits or pizza, or mix it with herbs and spices to create a cheesy spice mix. You can also use the powder to make a cheese sauce by adding it to a white sauce or sprinkle it on top of casseroles.

Shelf Life of Dehydrated Cheese Powder:

The shelf life of dehydrated cheese powder will depend on how well it is stored and the temperature it is maintained at. When stored in airtight containers and kept in a cool, dry place, the cheese powder can last for several months. If vacuum-sealed, the shelf life can be extended further. However, it is important to note that the high-fat content of cheese makes it susceptible to rancidity, so it is not recommended for long-term storage.

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