Fridge-Stored, Hand-Grated Cheese: How Long Does It Last?

Whether it's freshly grated or store-bought, hand-grated cheese will last in the fridge for around 3 to 5 days. This is because, once grated, the cheese has a larger surface area, which means it will spoil more quickly than a block of cheese. The shelf life of hand-grated cheese also depends on the type of cheese—soft cheeses tend to spoil faster than hard varieties.

Hand-grated cheese should be stored in an airtight container or bag in the fridge

Storing hand-grated cheese in an airtight container or bag will help to keep it fresh for longer by reducing its exposure to the air and the low humidity of the fridge. It will also protect the cheese from absorbing flavours or odours from other foods in the fridge.

In addition to using an airtight container or bag, there are several other steps you can take to ensure your hand-grated cheese stays fresh for as long as possible. Firstly, only grate as much cheese as you need, so you don't have to store it for longer than necessary. Secondly, if you have a large amount of grated cheese, consider dividing it into smaller containers or bags, so you can keep opening one container or bag while the others remain sealed. Finally, make sure your fridge is set to a temperature of below 40°F (4°C), as higher temperatures increase the rate at which bacteria multiply.

By following these steps, you can expect your hand-grated cheese to last for around 3-5 days in the fridge.

It will last 3-5 days in the fridge

Grated cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used to add flavour and texture to a variety of dishes. However, it's important to note that grated cheese has a shorter shelf life than cheese blocks.

Hand-grated cheese will last for 3-5 days in the fridge. This is true for any type of cheese that you grate yourself. If you need it to last longer, you can freeze it.

To ensure your grated cheese lasts for 3-5 days in the fridge, it's important to store it properly. Make sure to seal the container or bag tightly, and handle the cheese with clean hands or utensils to prevent the introduction of moisture, which can lead to clumping.

It's also important to note that the shelf life of grated cheese may vary depending on the type of cheese. For example, soft cheeses like mozzarella, feta, and goat cheese are more perishable and typically last for about a week to a few weeks in the refrigerator. On the other hand, hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and parmesan can last for a few weeks to a couple of months when stored properly in the fridge.

Additionally, it's important to inspect your cheese for any signs of spoilage before consuming it. Grated cheese can go bad if not stored properly, and it can be difficult to notice the first signs of spoilage. If you see any mould, smell a strong odour, or notice a change in texture or taste, it's best to discard the cheese.

It can be frozen if you want it to last longer

Grated cheese can be frozen to make it last longer. However, it is important to note that not all cheeses freeze well. Hard and semi-hard cheeses are the best options for freezing, while soft cheeses like cream cheese, cottage cheese, and blue cheese should be avoided due to their high water content and potential change in texture.

When freezing grated cheese, it is recommended to use a freezer bag, expel as much air as possible, and label the bag. Grated cheese can be frozen for up to two months and can be added directly to dishes and cooked from frozen.

Freezing cheese can cause changes in texture and consistency, so it is best used for cooking rather than eating raw. Frozen cheese is perfect for melting into casseroles, sauces, or gratins.

Additionally, it is important to thaw frozen cheese slowly in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. Overall, freezing grated cheese is a great way to extend its shelf life and ensure it lasts longer.

Soft hand-grated cheeses like mozzarella and feta will only last a week to a few weeks

To ensure you get the most out of your soft hand-grated cheese, proper storage is key. For cheese sold in brine, like feta or fresh mozzarella, keep it in the liquid and make sure the container's lid is secure. Wrapping soft-ripened cheese like Brie in cheese paper, or parchment paper kept in an airtight container, is also a good way to make it last longer.

You can also freeze soft hand-grated cheese if you need it to keep for longer. Freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much excess air as possible.

It's important to note that the shelf life of soft hand-grated cheese is only a guideline for quality, not safety. Even if your soft hand-grated cheese is past its best-by date, it may still be safe to eat if it shows no signs of spoilage. However, it's always best to inspect your cheese before consuming it.

Hard hand-grated cheeses like parmesan and gouda can last a few weeks to a couple of months

Hard, hand-grated cheeses like parmesan and gouda can last a few weeks to a couple of months in the fridge. This is because they have a lower moisture content, which prevents bacteria from flourishing and spoiling the cheese.

To ensure your hard, hand-grated cheese lasts as long as possible, it is important to store it correctly. Firstly, remove the cheese from its plastic packaging. Then, wrap it loosely in a breathable material such as wax paper or cheese paper. Finally, put the cheese in an airtight container and store it in the coldest part of the fridge.

It is also important to note that hard, hand-grated cheese can be frozen if you need it to last longer. To do this, spread the cheese on a baking sheet to freeze it, then transfer it to a freezer bag and keep it in the freezer.

Even with proper storage, hard, hand-grated cheese will eventually go bad. Be sure to inspect your cheese for any signs of spoilage before consuming it. Some signs that your cheese has gone bad include:

• A sour, rancid, or ammonia-like smell
• Visible mould (except for blue cheese, where the presence of blue mould is normal and safe to eat)
• Changes in texture, such as becoming overly dry, crumbly, or slimy
• Significant changes in colour, such as yellowing or browning
• An off or sour flavour

Frequently asked questions