Feta Cheese's Lifespan: Water Storage Explored

Feta cheese is a versatile ingredient, adding a burst of flavour to a wide array of dishes. But how long does it last in water? Well, it depends on the type of water. Feta cheese that is packaged in brine, a solution of water and salt, can last for up to 6 months if stored correctly. However, if you're storing feta cheese in plain water, it's a different story. Feta cheese submerged in plain water will only last for a few hours before it needs to be cooked or consumed.

Feta cheese in water vs brine

Feta cheese is a Greek staple, widely considered to be the country's national cheese. It is a unique cheese with a strong cultural heritage and a dedicated fan base around the world.

Feta is traditionally made from sheep's milk, or a combination of sheep and goat's milk. It is a white, aged cheese with a salty, tangy taste and a crumbly texture.

The best way to store feta cheese and extend its shelf life is to submerge it in brine. This is simply a solution of salt and water. Feta dries out quickly when exposed to air, and submerging it in brine protects it from the air, keeping it moist and preserving its flavour.

Feta cheese stored in an unopened package in brine will last for several months in the refrigerator. Once the package is opened, feta stored in brine will last for about a month. In comparison, dry feta or crumbled feta stored in the refrigerator without brine will only last for about a week.

You can make your own brine by combining one teaspoon of kosher salt with one cup of water. You can also add a splash of vinegar to replicate the acetic acid in commercial brines. Make sure the water is at room temperature, as storing feta in warm water is not recommended.

If you don't want to use brine, there are a few other storage options. You can wrap the feta in a damp paper towel and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also store feta in olive oil in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

How long does dry feta last?

Feta cheese is a popular dairy product with a distinct taste and texture. Its shelf life depends on its packaging and storage conditions.

Dry feta cheese, or feta that is not stored in liquid, will last a maximum of one week. After a few days, dry feta will develop a bitter taste, and after seven days, it will be inedible.

To extend the shelf life of feta cheese, it is best to store it in liquid. Feta is often sold in brine, a saturated mixture of water and salt, which acts as a flavour enhancer and helps maintain the cheese's moisture, firmness, and longevity. The salt in the brine also inhibits bacterial growth, ensuring the cheese remains safe to consume over time. Feta stored in its original brine or vacuum-sealed packaging can last for up to six months when refrigerated.

Once the package of feta cheese is opened, it is recommended to consume it within five to seven days to maintain its taste and texture. If the feta cheese is submerged in brine, its freshness can extend to about one month.

For those looking to keep feta cheese beyond the usual refrigerated period, freezing is an option. Freezing can significantly extend the life of the cheese, although it may slightly alter the texture. Frozen feta is best used within one month and is suitable for cooked dishes such as sauces, soups, and casseroles.

Freezing feta cheese

Feta cheese is a popular soft cheese, often sold in large blocks or pre-crumbled, and can be expensive. Freezing feta cheese is a great way to avoid wasting it, and it can be safely frozen for up to 3 months.

How to Freeze Feta Cheese:

Firstly, it is important to note that feta cheese should be as fresh as possible before freezing. If you are freezing a block of feta, it is recommended to cut it into meal-sized portions. If you are freezing crumbled feta, there is no need to cut it, but you can choose to freeze it in portions.

The next step is to remove any excess moisture from the cheese with a paper towel. Then, wrap each portion of feta twice in plastic wrap. This will help to prevent freezer burn and contamination. Place the wrapped feta into a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. If you are freezing crumbled feta, it can be placed directly into a heavy-duty freezer bag and vacuum-sealed.

Finally, seal and freeze the feta. It is best to store feta at a temperature of 0°F or lower, and it will maintain its best quality for about 6 months.

How to Thaw Frozen Feta Cheese:

When you are ready to use your frozen feta, it is important to thaw it slowly in the refrigerator. Do not remove the plastic wrap, as this will dry out the cheese. Allow the cheese to defrost for a few hours, or overnight.

It is best to use thawed feta within 1 to 3 days. Freezing and thawing feta will make it crumblier, drier, and less salty, so it may need to be soaked in a saline solution or olive oil to enhance its flavour. It is best used in cooked dishes, such as pasta, sauces, soups, or casseroles.

How to Store Feta Cheese in the Fridge:

If you are not planning to freeze your feta cheese, it can be stored in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days if sealed tightly. However, if the feta is submerged in brine, it can last for about a month.

How to spot spoiled feta cheese

Feta cheese is a soft, moist cheese that is highly perishable. Therefore, it is important to know how to spot spoiled feta cheese to avoid consuming it. Here are some detailed signs to look out for:

Appearance

The presence of mold is a clear indication that your feta cheese has spoiled. Feta is a soft cheese, and mold can easily spread throughout the cheese. Do not scrape off the mold, as you would with harder cheeses like Parmesan. Instead, discard the entire block. Look for any greenish spots or dark discolourations on the surface of the cheese.

Smell

A slightly acidic odour is typical of feta cheese. However, if the smell becomes significantly stronger and sour, or develops a yeasty aroma, it is an indication that your feta has gone bad. A yeasty smell indicates the growth of yeast, which can thrive in the salty and acidic environment of feta cheese.

Texture

Changes in the texture of feta cheese can also indicate spoilage. If your feta block becomes slimy or starts to crumble excessively, it has passed its prime. Feta cheese that has been stored improperly or for too long may become dry, firm, or grainy. While this may not always indicate spoilage, it is recommended to discard the cheese as it may not be safe for consumption.

Taste

While taste is a less reliable indicator, you can use your judgement if there are no other noticeable signs of spoilage. Feta cheese that has gone bad may exhibit harsh, unbalanced flavours such as bitterness or rancidity. If the flavour is no longer to your liking, it is best to discard the cheese.

Storage Time

Finally, consider the storage time of your feta cheese. Feta has a shelf life of a few months to a year when stored in brine. If stored in the refrigerator without brine, feta blocks and crumbles typically last 3 to 7 days. If you notice that your feta has been stored for longer than recommended, it is best to discard it.

How to store feta cheese without water/brine

Feta cheese is a fresh, unripened cheese that can be made from sheep, goat, or cow's milk. It is best stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days of purchase. However, if you don't have access to brine or water, there are several alternative ways to store feta cheese:

Storing Feta Cheese in Olive Oil

Covering feta cheese with olive oil can extend its shelf life by creating a barrier against air, sealing in moisture, and inhibiting the growth of oxygen-dependent bacteria that can cause off-flavours. To store feta using a minimal amount of oil, place the cheese in the corner of a small zipper-lock bag and pour in just enough oil to cover the sides. Then, place the bag in a cup and press down on the cheese to force the excess oil over the top. Stored this way, feta can last for up to four weeks.

Storing Feta Cheese in Plastic Wrap or Airtight Container

If you don't have access to olive oil, another option is to tightly wrap the feta cheese in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. However, this method may not preserve the flavour and texture of the cheese as effectively as using olive oil or brine.

Freezing Feta Cheese

While freezing is not recommended for feta cheese due to its negative impact on texture, it can be done if necessary. Drain the feta, wrap it tightly in plastic freezer wrap, or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen feta cheese may lose some of its texture and flavour, so it is best suited for cooked dishes such as sauces, soups, and casseroles.

Making Your Own Brine

If you want to try storing your feta cheese in brine, you can make your own by combining one pound of salt (preferably kosher) with one gallon of water. However, this method may not be ideal if you are looking for alternative storage methods without water or brine.

Frequently asked questions