Goat Cheese: How Long Does It Really Last?

Goat cheese is a versatile dairy product with a soft texture and tangy taste. Its shelf life depends on multiple factors, including its type, packaging, storage conditions, and whether it has been opened. Generally, unopened goat cheese can retain its peak quality for a few weeks past the printed date when stored correctly in the fridge. However, once opened, it is best consumed within one to three weeks to maintain freshness. Proper storage methods, such as wrapping the cheese in wax paper and placing it in an airtight container, can help extend the shelf life of goat cheese. Freezing is also an option for longer storage, although it may alter the texture and flavour. Understanding the signs of spoilage, such as changes in colour, texture, smell, and taste, is crucial to ensure food safety and optimal freshness.

Goat cheese storage: refrigeration and wrapping

Goat cheese is a versatile dairy product with a soft texture and tangy taste. Its shelf life is influenced by several factors, including its type, packaging, storage conditions, and whether it has been opened. To extend the shelf life of goat cheese and maintain its freshness, effective storage, proper packaging, and temperature control are essential.

Refrigeration

Refrigeration is crucial for preserving the quality and safety of goat cheese. Unopened goat cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally between 34°F and 40°F, to maintain peak quality and prevent bacterial growth. It can generally retain its quality for a few weeks past the printed date when stored correctly. Once opened, the exposure to air accelerates spoilage, and the cheese should be consumed within one to two weeks.

Wrapping

Proper wrapping is essential to maintain the quality of goat cheese. When wrapping goat cheese, it is recommended to use wax paper or parchment paper. These materials allow the cheese to breathe while maintaining optimal humidity levels. The cheese should then be placed in an airtight container or a ziplock bag to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other flavours from the refrigerator. For semi-hard to semi-soft cheeses, plastic wrap or aluminium foil can also be used, although they may not preserve the cheese's quality as effectively.

Freezing

Freezing is an option for those seeking longer storage durations. Goat cheese can be frozen by wrapping it tightly in wax paper and placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can extend the cheese's palatability for several months, but texture and flavour changes may occur upon thawing, making it more suitable for cooked dishes.

Storage Tips

• Always store goat cheese in the refrigerator, maintaining a consistent temperature between 35°F and 45°F.
• Use the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator to maintain optimal humidity for cheese storage.
• For unopened goat cheese, check the expiration or "Best By" date provided by the manufacturer.
• Once opened, immediately label the package with the current date to track freshness.
• If transferring to an airtight container, ensure the label migrates with the cheese.
• Regularly check the cheese for any signs of spoilage, such as mould, off-odours, or unusual texture.

How to tell if goat cheese is bad

Goat cheese is a versatile dairy product with a soft texture and tangy taste. It is used in various culinary applications. While goat cheese is generally safe to consume for a few weeks after its printed date, it is essential to know how to identify spoiled cheese to prevent foodborne illnesses. Here are some detailed indicators to determine if your goat cheese has gone bad:

Visual Inspection:

• Colour Changes: Fresh goat cheese is typically white, and as it ages, it gradually turns slightly yellow. If your goat cheese has noticeably yellowed or acquired an off-white tint, it is likely past its prime. In rare cases, goat cheese that has been stored for too long may exhibit vivid yellow, orange, or pink hues, which are signs of spoilage.
• Mold: The presence of mold is a clear indication that goat cheese has gone bad. Mold can appear in various colours, including white, green, black, or pink. Inspect the cheese thoroughly, as mold may not always be immediately obvious. Some molds can be beneficial and safe, such as the white mold found on Brie cheese. However, random dark-coloured molds or less common colours like yellow and pink indicate spoilage.
• Discolouration and Slimy Texture: Discolouration or a slimy texture can indicate spoilage. Look for patches or a surface that has lost its typical dryness or firmness. Goat cheese should be discarded if it appears slimy or has been left out for an extended period.

Olfactory and Taste Markers:

• Smell: Goat cheese naturally has a distinctive "goaty" aroma, which should be mild and musky without being sharp or pungent. If the cheese has developed a sharp, acrid, or unpleasant smell, it is likely spoiled. An off-putting or strange smell is also an indicator of spoilage.
• Taste: If there is any doubt about the cheese's freshness, tasting a small amount can be the ultimate test. However, this should be done sparingly and only if the cheese appears and smells fine. If the cheese tastes sour, unpleasant, or has an odd aftertaste, it has likely gone bad.

Storage and Spoilage:

• Storage Conditions: Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the quality and safety of goat cheese. It should be stored in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil to limit air exposure, which can lead to spoilage. The ideal storage temperature is between 34°F and 40°F (approximately 4°C) in the refrigerator.
• Spoilage Bacteria: While spoilage bacteria may not make you sick, pathogens like E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes can cause severe illness. Therefore, it is essential to adhere to proper storage practices and consume goat cheese within the recommended timeframe.

In summary, to determine if your goat cheese is bad, inspect its appearance for colour changes, mold, and discolouration. Additionally, use your sense of smell to detect any unpleasant or strange odours. Finally, if the cheese appears and smells fine, you may taste a small amount to determine if it has soured or developed an unpleasant flavour. Remember to follow safe food handling practices to minimise the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Goat cheese shelf life

Goat cheese is a versatile dairy product with a soft texture and tangy taste. Its shelf life depends on multiple factors, including its type, packaging, storage conditions, and whether it has been opened.

Unopened Goat Cheese

Unopened goat cheese can generally retain peak quality for a few weeks past its printed date when stored correctly in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature for storing goat cheese is between 34°F and 40°F (4°C and 5°C). At room temperature, goat cheese should not be left for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Opened Goat Cheese

Once opened, goat cheese is exposed to air, which can influence its rate of spoilage. Soft goat cheeses are highly perishable and best consumed within one to two weeks of opening. Proper storage involves wrapping the cheese in wax or parchment paper and placing it in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator.

Freezing Goat Cheese

Freezing is an option for those seeking longer storage durations. Freezing goat cheese can extend its palatability for several months, but it may alter the texture and flavour. To freeze goat cheese, wrap it tightly in wax paper, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and label it with the date. Thaw frozen goat cheese in the refrigerator overnight before use, and consume within a few days.

Signs of Spoilage

To determine if goat cheese has spoiled, look for changes in colour, texture, smell, and taste. Spoiled goat cheese may develop a sticky slime or mould, especially blue or green mould, indicating the presence of harmful bacteria. Additionally, a sharp or acrid smell or an unpleasant taste may indicate spoilage.

Freezing goat cheese

• Portion the goat cheese: Divide large quantities into smaller portions. Cut solid goat cheese into individual serving sizes. For soft goat cheese, portion out the amount you'll likely need when thawing.
• Wrap the cheese: Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper. For soft spreadable goat cheese, you can leave it in its original container, but still wrap it tightly.
• Place in a freezer bag or container: Put the wrapped cheese into a freezer bag or airtight container. For soft spreadable goat cheese, you can use a freezer bag, plastic bag, or cover it in plastic wrap for double protection.
• Label and date: Attach labels with the date to each bag or container. For soft spreadable goat cheese, fill containers to the top to avoid leaving air in them. You can also top off any remaining space with olive oil.
• Store in the freezer: Place the labelled and dated bags or containers in the freezer. Goat cheese should be kept in the freezer for no longer than two to three months.
• Thaw: When you're ready to use the cheese, remove it from the freezer and thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours. For the best results, thaw the cheese slowly overnight in the fridge.
• Serve: Bring the goat cheese to room temperature before serving, whether it's fresh or frozen, for the best flavour. When cooking with goat cheese, heat it just until melted as it can become grainy and will separate if overheated.

Tips for Freezing Goat Cheese

• Hard goat cheese, which is a little crumbly, will fare better when frozen than softer varieties. Goat cheese crumbles are ideal for freezing.
• Freeze goat cheese within a few months of purchasing for peak flavour.
• Freezing goat cheese may alter its texture and taste. It can become slightly more crumbly, but it will still retain its fine flavour.
• Frozen goat cheese is best reserved for cooked dishes, as freezing can alter its creamy texture.

Goat cheese types and their differences

Goat cheese, or chèvre, is a name for all cheeses made using goat's milk. There are many different types of goat's milk cheeses produced around the world. Here are some of the most popular types and their differences:

Fresh Goat Cheese

This variety is often soft and spreadable with a tangy flavor. It does not undergo an aging process and typically has a shelf life of up to two weeks after opening. Fresh goat cheese is similar in texture to cream cheese, but the fat is different, resulting in a less viscous mouthfeel than fresh cow's milk cheese.

Firm Goat Cheese

Aged longer, these cheeses have a firmer texture and may be crumbly. They can last a bit longer than fresh varieties, typically retaining their quality for a few weeks past their printed expiration dates.

Semi-Soft to Semi-Hard Goat Cheese

These cheeses are aged to varying degrees and can be versatile in recipes, ranging from crumbly textures to firm slices. They typically last a few weeks past their printed expiration dates and can be stored for 1-3 weeks after opening. Examples include Bucheron and Crottin.

Aged Goat Cheese

The aging process for goat cheese can last from a few weeks to several months. Aged varieties have a reduced moisture content, which contributes to a longer shelf life and enhanced flavor profile. Examples include Gouda, cheddar, and manchego, which can all be made from goat's milk.

Blue Goat Cheese

Blue goat cheese is made by mixing blue mold into the curds. As it ages, the flavor becomes sharper, earthier, and more pungent than cow's milk cheese.

Brie Goat Cheese

Goat's milk Brie is more subtle and refreshing than cow's milk Brie. It is even milder than its cow milk inspiration, with a thin rind and a creamy paste inside.

Goat Gouda

Goat Gouda, produced exclusively in Holland, is sweet and delicious, with caramel overtones.

Tomme Goat Cheese

Tomme goat cheese is a variety made only in France, though U.S. cheesemakers are creating tomme-style goat cheese. It is spreadable, washed, rinsed, aged, and made with raw milk.

Frequently asked questions