Patrick Oconnell
Feta cheese is a popular ingredient in many dishes, but how long does it stay good in the fridge? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of feta cheese, how it is stored, and whether it has been opened. In general, feta cheese that is stored in a brine solution can last for several months if properly submerged, while dry or crumbled feta without brine will only last a few days to weeks. Indicators that feta cheese has gone bad include the presence of mold, a strong odour, discolouration, and a change in texture. Freezing feta cheese is not recommended as it can negatively affect its texture and flavour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Feta cheese shelf life | Feta cheese stored in brine can last for up to 6 months if stored correctly. Without brine, feta will go bad in a few weeks, even in a fridge. |
| Indicators of spoilage | - Mold: If there is any greenish mold on the cheese, throw it out. - Yeasty aroma: Feta has gone bad if it smells like proofed bread dough. |
| Ways to keep feta cheese fresh longer | - Always use a clean implement when removing cheese from the brine. - Ensure the block of cheese is completely submerged in brine. - Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. |
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What You'll Learn
Feta in brine can last up to six months
Feta cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient, but how long does it last in the fridge? Well, it depends on whether it's stored in brine or not. Feta in brine can last up to six months if stored correctly. This means keeping the cheese submerged in its original container of brine, ensuring no contamination has occurred.
Feta is a soft cheese, and soft cheeses do not have a long shelf life. However, the brine solution helps to preserve the cheese, and when stored correctly, feta in brine can last for several months in the refrigerator. It is important to note that once the feta is removed from the brine, it becomes perishable and should be consumed within a few days to a week.
To keep your feta in brine lasting as long as possible, it is important to follow some simple guidelines. Firstly, always use clean utensils when removing cheese from the brine to avoid introducing microbes that can cause spoilage. Secondly, ensure that the feta is completely submerged in the brine at all times. If you find that the brine level is getting low, you can make your own brine using milk and vinegar to top it off.
Even with proper storage, feta in brine will eventually go bad. Some signs that your feta has gone bad include the presence of mold, a yeasty aroma, harsh or unbalanced flavours, a change in colour, a strong odour, or a dry and hard texture. If you notice any of these indicators, it is best to discard the feta.
While freezing can be an option to extend the shelf life of some foods, it is generally not recommended for feta cheese. Freezing can negatively affect the texture and flavour of feta, and it is unlikely to be enjoyable even when thawed gently. So, if you're looking to keep your feta lasting as long as possible, stick to storing it in brine and enjoying it fresh!
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Non-brined feta lasts a few days to a week
Feta cheese is a popular dairy product with a complex flavour profile that is rich, creamy, tangy, and bright. It is a soft and crumbly cheese that is widely used in dishes like salads, omelettes, and snacks. While it is a delightful addition to various recipes, it is important to consume feta cheese before it spoils.
The shelf life of feta cheese depends on how it is stored. Feta cheese that is submerged in a brine solution or well-wrapped can last for several months in the refrigerator. The brine, typically made with salt and water, acts as a preservative, inhibiting bacterial growth and extending the cheese's freshness. However, it is crucial to ensure that the cheese remains completely submerged in the brine and that no contamination occurs during handling.
Non-brined feta, on the other hand, has a much shorter shelf life. Without the protective brine, non-brined feta is susceptible to spoilage within a few days to a week. This is because, when exposed to air, feta cheese can quickly dry out, develop mould, or undergo textural changes. It may also emit a strong, unpleasant odour, indicating that it has gone bad.
To maximise the shelf life of non-brined feta, it is essential to store it properly. Keep the cheese in an airtight container or well-sealed packaging in the refrigerator. Additionally, practice good hygiene when handling the cheese to prevent the introduction of microbes that can accelerate spoilage.
It is worth noting that, even when stored properly, non-brined feta will only maintain its optimal quality for a limited time. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase smaller quantities of non-brined feta or consider preparing your own brine solution to extend its freshness. By mixing whole milk, water, table salt, and distilled white vinegar, you can create a brine that replicates the preservative qualities of commercial brines.
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Feta can be frozen to extend its shelf life
Feta cheese is an aged cheese that is typically stored in brine. This brine solution helps to maintain the cheese's freshness, savoury flavour, and salty taste while keeping the acidity and structure of the curd for weeks to months. Feta stored in liquid salt brine can last for up to six months if stored correctly, ensuring that the block is completely submerged in brine and that no contamination has occurred.
However, if you have bought more feta than you can consume within its shelf life, or if you are back-stocking, freezing is a good option to extend its life. Freezing feta is a great way to avoid food waste and save money on groceries. While fresh feta is always the most delicious option, freezing can preserve the cheese for future use.
When freezing feta, it is important to note that the process can alter its texture and taste. Freezing can make the cheese drier, crumblier, and less creamy, and it may also affect its saltiness level. To minimise these changes, it is recommended to pat the feta dry before freezing, as water forms crystals that can affect the taste and texture. You can then cut the cheese into portions or crumble it, ensuring that it is tightly wrapped with minimal air exposure. Vacuum sealing is an effective method to prevent air and water from affecting the cheese.
Feta can be frozen for up to three months. When you are ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to reduce the risk of bacterial growth. You can also thaw it quickly by placing the cheese in a ziplock bag and submerging it in a bowl of cold water for a couple of hours. While the texture changes may be more noticeable with block feta, the thawed cheese can still be used in cooked dishes like casseroles or stews, where the texture is less important.
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Signs of bad feta include mould, harsh flavours and a yeasty smell
Feta cheese is a beloved component of many dishes, but it can be tricky to determine if it has gone bad. Proper storage is essential to prevent feta cheese from spoiling. Feta packed in brine or oil can last up to six months if stored correctly. To ensure the longevity of your feta, it is important to follow a few key guidelines. Firstly, always make sure the cheese is completely submerged in the brine. This helps to preserve the cheese and prevent bacterial growth. Additionally, when removing cheese from the brine, use clean utensils to avoid introducing microbes that can accelerate spoilage.
Despite our best efforts, sometimes feta cheese can still go bad. How can you tell if your feta has turned? One of the most telltale signs is the presence of mould. If you spot any greenish or dark mould spots on the surface of the cheese, it's time to discard it. Don't risk scraping off the mould and eating the rest, as the entire block is now contaminated.
Another indicator of spoiled feta is a harsh or unbalanced flavour. Fresh feta should have a mildly tangy, savoury, and milky taste. If your feta tastes overly bitter, rancid, or sour, it has likely gone past its prime. This harsh flavour can be attributed to the growth of certain bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, which produces stinky volatile sulphur compounds commonly found in sweaty feet.
A spoiled feta cheese will also exhibit a distinct yeasty aroma. This unpleasant odour might remind you of spoiled milk, vomit, or even beer. The yeasty smell is due to the presence of acid-tolerant yeasts that thrive in the salty environment of feta cheese. If your feta has taken on this yeasty, off-putting smell, it's best to discard it.
In summary, when it comes to determining if your feta cheese has gone bad, always trust your senses. Look for visible signs of mould, taste for harsh or unbalanced flavours, and smell for any yeasty or spoiled milk aromas. By following these indicators, you can ensure that your feta is safe to enjoy in your favourite recipes.
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Homemade brine can be made with milk, water, salt and vinegar
Feta cheese can last for quite a while in the fridge, but it's important to inspect it for any signs of spoilage before consuming it. If stored correctly, feta cheese packed in liquid salt brine can last for up to 6 months. However, once it is removed from the brine, it should be treated as perishable food and consumed within a few days to weeks. Crumbled feta, which is often sold without brine, can last for about 10 days in the refrigerator if unopened.
To maximize the shelf life of feta cheese, it is crucial to follow proper storage practices. Always keep the cheese completely submerged in brine to prevent contamination. When removing a portion of the cheese from the brine, use clean utensils like tongs or a fork to avoid introducing microbes that can lead to spoilage. Additionally, regularly inspect the cheese for any signs of mold or unusual odours beyond the typical pungency of feta.
Now, let's talk about homemade brine. While store-bought feta often comes in a brine solution, you can also create your own brine at home using milk, water, salt, and vinegar. This combination replicates the calcium and acetic acid found in commercial brines, helping to preserve the feta cheese. Here's a simple recipe for a homemade brine:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup water
- 1½ teaspoons table salt
- ½ teaspoon distilled white vinegar
Instructions:
- Combine the milk, water, salt, and vinegar in a container. Stir until the salt is dissolved and the ingredients are well-mixed.
- Place the feta cheese in an airtight container and pour the brine over it until the cheese is completely covered.
- Refrigerate the container. The brine will help keep your feta cheese fresh for an extended period.
By making your own brine with milk, water, salt, and vinegar, you can ensure your feta cheese stays submerged and fresh for longer. Remember to always inspect your cheese for any signs of spoilage and enjoy it while it's at its best!
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Frequently asked questions
Feta cheese stored in a brine solution can last for up to six months if stored correctly. Feta without brine will only last a few days to a few weeks before going bad.
The number one indicator that your feta has gone bad is the presence of mold. Other signs include a strong, unpleasant odour, a change in colour, and a dry or oozing texture. Feta should also taste like fresh, mildly tangy dairy; if it tastes overly bitter or rancid, it has likely gone bad.
Yes, feta can be frozen to extend its shelf life, but this will likely affect its texture and flavour. To freeze feta, remove it from its packaging, pat it dry, wrap it in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer bag. Frozen feta will keep for up to three months.
Always store feta in a brine solution, ensuring that the cheese is completely submerged. When removing cheese from the brine, use a clean utensil to avoid introducing microbes that could encourage spoilage.
