Kamil Perry
Goat cheese is a name for all cheeses made using goat's milk. It can be fresh (unripened) or ripened, and its texture can vary from soft to semi-soft to semi-hard to hard. The shelf life of goat cheese depends on its type and how it is stored. Soft and fresh goat cheeses keep for a couple of weeks past their date and about a week after opening. Soft-ripened goat cheeses last for only a week or so past their date, but their package being opened does not make a difference. Goat cheese that is unopened and vacuum-sealed can keep for at least two months. Goat cheese that is properly wrapped and refrigerated can last for weeks, if not a couple of months.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How long does goat cheese spread last? | A few weeks to a few months, depending on the type of goat cheese and storage conditions |
| Storage conditions | Refrigerate at all times; wrap in wax or parchment paper, then cover with plastic wrap or aluminium foil |
| Vacuum-sealed goat cheese | Can last for at least two months unopened; once opened, remove from packaging and store in a lidded plastic or glass container in the refrigerator |
| Freezing goat cheese | Can be frozen to extend shelf life; wrap tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place in a heavy-duty freezer bag |
| Frozen goat cheese uses | Best suited for cooked dishes such as sauces, soups, and casseroles |
| How to tell if goat cheese is bad | Strong or sour smell, bitter or unpleasant taste, mould (except for hard or semi-hard cheese, where non-native mould can be cut off) |
What You'll Learn
Fresh goat cheese lasts 1-2 weeks in the fridge
Fresh goat cheese will last about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. To maximise its shelf life, wrap the original packaging tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. For even better results, wrap the cheese first in wax or parchment paper and then cover with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
If you want to further extend the shelf life of goat cheese, you can freeze it. Wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavour, so it's best suited for cooked dishes such as sauces, soups and casseroles.
Goat cheese that has been kept in the refrigerator for several months may develop a bitter taste, which is a sign that it has gone bad. A strong or sour smell or any unpleasant taste is a giveaway that the cheese is past its prime. If you see mould on the cheese, discard it entirely.
Soft and fresh goat cheeses can keep for a couple of weeks past their date and about a week after opening. They are similar to cream cheese in terms of storage. If your goat cheese says spreadable or looks like cream cheese, it falls into this category.
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Vacuum-sealed goat cheese can be kept unopened for 2 months
Vacuum-sealed goat cheese can be kept unopened for up to two months if stored correctly. This type of packaging helps to extend the shelf life of the cheese, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your cheese stays fresh for as long as possible.
Firstly, it is important to note that goat cheese should always be stored in the refrigerator. Room temperature is above the ideal aging temperature for cheese, which ranges from 50º to 60º F (10º to 15.5º C). Storing your vacuum-sealed goat cheese in the refrigerator will help to slow down the aging process and keep it fresh for longer.
When purchasing vacuum-sealed goat cheese, it is important to inspect the packaging for any signs of damage or leakage. Excess liquid or any off-colors on the packaging may indicate that the cheese is no longer fresh. For varieties with a rind, look for any separation between the rind and the cheese, as this could be a sign that the cheese is dried out.
Once you have purchased your vacuum-sealed goat cheese, it is important to store it properly to ensure it lasts for the full two months. Avoid storing the cheese in plastic wrap, as this can invite unwanted mold and cause the cheese to spoil prematurely. Instead, opt for wax paper or parchment paper, which allows the cheese to breathe while remaining sealed. You can then wrap the cheese in foil or plastic wrap to provide an additional layer of protection.
It is also important to regularly check on your vacuum-sealed goat cheese to ensure it remains fresh. While a spot of gray or brown mold may not be cause for concern, bright yellow or pink mold indicates that the cheese should be discarded. Additionally, if the cheese develops a strong or sour smell or an unpleasant bitter taste, it should be thrown away.
By following these storage and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your vacuum-sealed goat cheese lasts for the full two months. However, it is always important to use your best judgment and inspect the cheese before consuming it, as individual results may vary.
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Goat cheese is best stored in the vegetable crisper
Goat cheese should always be stored in the fridge, and it is best when stored in a sealed container. Soft or semi-soft goat cheese should be stored in a resealable plastic container. For semi-hard cheeses, it is best to wrap them in parchment or wax paper and then in foil or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Goat cheese will last in the refrigerator for a couple of weeks past its date and about a week after opening. Soft and fresh goat cheeses will keep for a couple of weeks past their date and about a week after opening. Soft-ripened goat cheeses will keep for only a week or so past their date, but it doesn't matter when you open the package. They continue to ripen over time, whether opened or not.
To further extend the shelf life of goat cheese, you can freeze it. Wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavor.
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Goat cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life
Goat cheese is a versatile dairy product with a soft texture and tangy taste, used across various culinary applications. The shelf life of goat cheese depends on multiple factors, such as its type, packaging, storage conditions, and whether it has been opened.
Freezing goat cheese is an effective way to prolong its shelf life and preserve its quality for several months. This method is particularly useful for those who wish to store goat cheese for extended periods. However, it is important to note that freezing may alter the texture and flavour of the cheese. The following paragraphs will provide detailed instructions on how to freeze goat cheese and maintain its quality.
To freeze goat cheese, start by wrapping it tightly in wax paper or parchment paper. This allows the cheese to breathe while maintaining its humidity level. Then, place the wrapped cheese in a zip-top bag or an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and the absorption of other flavours from the freezer. Label the container with the current date before placing it in the freezer.
When you are ready to use the frozen goat cheese, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight to preserve its texture and flavour. It is important to note that frozen goat cheese is best suited for cooked dishes, as the freezing process can alter its creamy texture. For optimal quality, consume the thawed goat cheese within a few days.
By following these steps, you can effectively extend the shelf life of goat cheese and enjoy its unique flavour and texture for a longer period. However, it is important to note that freezing may not be suitable for all types of goat cheese, and the texture and flavour changes may vary depending on the specific variety.
In addition to freezing, proper storage practices such as maintaining the ideal temperature and humidity level in the refrigerator are crucial for preserving the quality and freshness of goat cheese.
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Goat cheese is past its prime if it has a strong or sour smell or bitter taste
Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient, perfect for salads, dips, pasta, and even desserts. But how do you know when it's past its prime?
Goat cheese is past its best when it has a strong or sour smell or a bitter taste. These are tell-tale signs that your cheese is no longer good to eat. Goat cheese can last for a few weeks to a couple of months if stored correctly, but eventually, it will spoil. The low moisture content of hard goat cheeses helps to extend their shelf life, but even these will not last indefinitely.
If your goat cheese has an unpleasant smell or taste, it's time to discard it. The same goes for any mould that appears on soft goat cheese or any separation between the rind and the cheese. However, if your hard or semi-hard cheese has developed mould, you can cut off the affected area, plus a little extra, and the rest of the cheese should be safe to eat.
To prolong the life of your goat cheese, proper storage is essential. Soft, spreadable goat cheeses should be kept in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For semi-hard and hard cheeses, wrap first in wax or parchment paper, then in foil or plastic wrap, and store in the fridge.
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Frequently asked questions
Unopened goat cheese spread will last 3-6 months, but is best enjoyed within 2-3 weeks of opening.
Store unopened goat cheese in the refrigerator at all times. If it is vacuum-sealed, it can be kept unopened for at least two months.
Once opened, remove the goat cheese from its original packaging and store it in a lidded plastic or glass container in the refrigerator.
Goat cheese that has gone bad will typically have an off smell and appearance. If there is any mold on the cheese, discard it entirely.
Yes, you can freeze goat cheese to extend its shelf life. Wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen cheese may become crumbly and is best suited for cooked dishes.
