Dried Parmesan Cheese: How Long Does It Stay Fresh?

Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a lengthy aging process and low water content, which means it can be stored for long periods. An unopened block of Parmesan can last seven to nine months in the refrigerator, while an opened block will last one to two months. Grated Parmesan will last about a week in the refrigerator. But how long does dried Parmesan cheese last out of the fridge?

Unopened, it can last months beyond its expiration date

Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a lengthy aging process of a minimum of two years, and sometimes more than four. Its long shelf life is due to its low water content, which also means it doesn't require strict refrigeration. However, storing it in the refrigerator will significantly extend its lifespan.

An unopened package of Parmesan cheese can last for several months beyond its expiration date, as long as it has been stored properly. In the refrigerator, an unopened package can last seven to nine months, and even longer if vacuum-sealed. The key to maximising shelf life is to ensure the cheese is well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.

If you've bought grated Parmesan, make sure to check the "best before" date on the packaging. After opening the canister, keep it in the fridge, where it will last about a week. Opened Parmesan, whether grated or in a block, will last one to two months in the fridge.

Opened, it lasts 4-8 weeks

Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a long shelf life, especially when stored properly. When unopened and stored in the refrigerator, it can last for several months beyond the expiration date. However, once opened, its shelf life reduces to 4-8 weeks.

To maximise the shelf life of opened Parmesan cheese, it is important to store it properly. The best way to store it is in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. The refrigerator temperature should be kept below 40°F (4°C). Ensure the cheese is well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.

For grated or shredded Parmesan, consider using a vacuum-sealed bag or a container with a tight lid. This will help to extend its shelf life. Additionally, always check for any signs of spoilage, such as mould growth, off odours, or changes in texture. If you notice mould on the surface, cut off the affected portion, and the rest of the cheese should still be usable.

While these guidelines provide a general idea, it's important to use your judgment and consider the specific storage conditions. If there are any noticeable changes in colour, texture, or smell, inspect the cheese closely to determine if it is still suitable for consumption.

Store in an airtight container or bag

To store dried Parmesan cheese in an airtight container or bag, it is important to first wrap the cheese in a breathable material such as parchment paper, cheesecloth, cheese paper, or wax paper. This will allow the cheese to breathe and prevent condensation from building up, which can cause spoilage.

Once the cheese is properly wrapped, it can be placed in an airtight container or resealable bag and stored in the refrigerator. This will help to extend the shelf life of the cheese. It is important to note that grated or shredded Parmesan may have a shorter shelf life compared to a block or wheel of Parmesan.

When storing dried Parmesan cheese in an airtight container or bag, it is crucial to ensure that the cheese is well-sealed. This will prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator. Additionally, it is recommended to store the cheese in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator, as this will help to maintain optimal temperatures and humidity levels.

The shelf life of dried Parmesan cheese stored in an airtight container or bag will depend on various factors, including the original packaging, temperature, and humidity. Under optimal conditions, unopened Parmesan cheese can last for several months beyond the expiration date, while opened Parmesan cheese can last for up to two months.

It is important to regularly check for any signs of spoilage, such as mould growth, off odours, or changes in texture. If mould is present, it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion, and the rest of the cheese should still be usable. However, if there are noticeable changes in colour, texture, or smell, it is advisable to inspect the cheese closely and determine if it is still suitable for consumption.

Wrap in parchment, cheesecloth, wax or aluminium

Wrapping your Parmesan cheese in parchment, cheesecloth, wax or aluminium is an effective way to store this hard cheese and prolong its shelf life.

Firstly, wrapping Parmesan in parchment paper, cheesecloth, or wax paper is a good way to allow the cheese to breathe and prevent condensation. This is important because moisture will cause spoilage. You can then further wrap the cheese in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent it from absorbing other odours in the refrigerator.

If you are storing a small piece of Parmesan, you can simply place it in a Ziploc bag, ensuring you have removed excess air before sealing.

It is also worth noting that hard cheeses like Parmesan have a long shelf life because of their low moisture content. They do not require strict refrigeration but doing so will slow the growth of bacteria.

If you are storing grated Parmesan, it is best to use an airtight container.

Check for mould, off odours or changes in texture

When it comes to checking for mould, off odours, or changes in texture in dried Parmesan cheese, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, mould growth is a common issue with cheeses, and it's important to identify and address it promptly. Mould can appear as a fuzzy or polka-dot coating on the surface of the cheese, and it indicates the presence of microorganisms feasting on the proteins and sugars in the cheese. While some types of mould, like the white rind on Brie, are safe and even desirable in certain cheeses, other types of mould can compromise the taste and texture of the cheese.

To check for mould on dried Parmesan cheese, visually inspect the surface for any signs of fuzziness, discolouration, or spots. If you notice any mould, it's generally safe to cut off the affected portion, as Parmesan is a hard cheese, and the rest of the cheese should still be usable. However, always use your judgment and consider the amount of mould present. If the cheese is extensively covered in mould, it's best to discard it entirely.

In addition to mould, off odours or unpleasant smells can also indicate spoilage in dried Parmesan cheese. A sharp or sour odour, different from the cheese's typical nutty aroma, could suggest that the cheese has gone bad. It's important to trust your sense of smell and avoid consuming the cheese if it emits an off-putting or rancid odour.

Lastly, changes in texture can also be a sign of spoilage in dried Parmesan cheese. Parmesan is known for its hard, brittle texture that easily snaps or breaks apart. If you notice that the cheese has become softer, stickier, or crumbly in a way that deviates from its typical texture, it may be an indication of spoilage. Additionally, the presence of moisture or clumping in the cheese can also signify that it has gone bad.

In summary, when checking dried Parmesan cheese for mould, off odours, or changes in texture, carefully examine the surface for any visual signs of mould growth, trust your sense of smell for unpleasant odours, and be aware of any deviations from the cheese's characteristic hard, brittle texture. Taking these precautions will help ensure that you consume dried Parmesan cheese that is safe and of good quality.

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