The Longevity Of Land O Lakes American Cheese

Land O'Lakes is a dairy company that has been in the cheese business for decades. They offer a wide range of cheese products, including the popular Land O'Lakes American Cheese. With its ideal melting characteristics, this cheese is perfect for shredding, slicing, and melting, making it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. But how long does Land O' Lakes American cheese last? When it comes to shelf life, the company provides a guaranteed shelf life of 60-90 days and a maximum shelf life of 270 days for their American cheese loaves. However, once the package is opened, it is recommended to use the cheese within 5-7 days for the best quality. To ensure the cheese stays fresh, it should be stored properly in the refrigerator, wrapped securely to keep air out and moisture in.

Storage and shelf life

Land O Lakes recommends storing their cheese products in the centre of a refrigerator, at temperatures between 35° to 40°F (1.6 to 4.4° C). The door of the refrigerator is not a suitable place to store cheese.

Once the package is opened, the cheese should be re-wrapped securely in airtight plastic wrap, aluminium foil, or a resealable plastic food bag. It is also important to use clean cutting utensils and work surfaces to prevent the cheese from becoming mouldy.

Land O Lakes recommends that their pre-sliced cheese products be used by the date on the package if unopened. Once the package is opened, pre-sliced cheeses should be used within 5-7 days. Freshly sliced deli cheese should be used within 5-7 days of purchase for the best quality.

The shelf life of Land O Lakes cheese products varies depending on the specific product. For example, the Land O Lakes® Extra Melt® American Cheese Loaf, Yellow has a guaranteed shelf life of 60 days and a maximum shelf life of 270 days. On the other hand, the Land O Lakes® American Cheese Loaf, Yellow has a guaranteed shelf life of 90 days and the same maximum shelf life of 270 days.

Freezing cheese is not recommended by Land O Lakes as it changes the texture of the cheese, usually resulting in crumbly cheese. However, if the cheese has been frozen, it can be thawed in the refrigerator and used in cooking and baking applications. Frozen cheese should still be used before the expiration date indicated on the packaging.

Freezing

Land O'Lakes does not recommend freezing their cheese. Freezing cheese can change its texture, making it crumbly. However, if you have already frozen your Land O' Lakes American cheese, you can thaw it in the refrigerator and use it in cooked dishes, such as omelets, casseroles, or sandwich melts. It is important to note that even if the cheese has been frozen, it should still be consumed before the expiration date indicated on the packaging.

To ensure the best quality and texture of your Land O' Lakes American cheese, it is recommended to store it in the refrigerator at a temperature between 35°F to 40°F (1.6 to 4.4° C). Additionally, proper storage practices, such as using clean utensils and surfaces, and sealing the cheese tightly to keep air out, can help prevent mold growth and extend the shelf life of the cheese.

While freezing is not recommended for Land O' Lakes American cheese, it can still be a viable option if you need to extend the shelf life of the product. Just keep in mind that the texture may change, and it is important to thaw and use the cheese within the recommended timeframe.

When it comes to storing and preserving Land O' Lakes American cheese, maintaining optimal temperature and hygiene conditions is crucial. By following the recommended storage guidelines, you can ensure that your cheese remains fresh, flavorful, and safe for consumption.

Preventing mould

Mould is the last thing anyone wants to see on their cheese. To prevent mould from growing on your Land O Lakes cheese, you should always use clean cutting utensils and work surfaces. You should also seal the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or store it in a resealable plastic food storage bag, ensuring that all the air has been removed.

It is also important to store the cheese at the correct temperature. Land O Lakes cheese should be stored in the centre of your refrigerator at a temperature between 35° to 40°F (1.6 to 4.4° C). Warmer temperatures encourage the growth of mould, so it is important to keep your cheese cool.

If you have purchased pre-sliced cheese, it should be used within 5-7 days. Freshly sliced cheese should be consumed within 5-7 days of purchase.

Best uses

Land O Lakes® American Cheese is a versatile product with a guaranteed shelf life of 90 days and a maximum shelf life of 270 days. It is ideal for shredding, slicing, and melting, making it a great option for a variety of dishes. Here are some of the best uses for Land O Lakes® American Cheese:

Queso Dips, Sauces, and Soups

The melting characteristics of Land O Lakes® American Cheese make it perfect for creating delicious and creamy queso dips. It can also be used as a base for sauces and soups, adding a cheesy flavour to your favourite recipes.

Macaroni and Cheese

Whether you're making it from scratch or using a boxed mix, Land O Lakes® American Cheese can take your macaroni and cheese to the next level. Shred or cube the cheese and mix it into your macaroni for a creamy and indulgent dish.

Sandwiches

Land O Lakes® American Cheese is a classic choice for sandwiches, both hot and cold. Its melting properties make it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches, paninis, and melting onto burgers. It can also be sliced and added to cold sandwiches for a creamy and savoury touch.

Salads

For a hearty and flavourful salad, try adding some shredded Land O Lakes® American Cheese to your salad bar. It will pair well with a variety of salad ingredients, such as greens, vegetables, and proteins like chicken or tofu.

Entrees and Side Dishes

Land O Lakes® American Cheese can be used as a topping or filling for a variety of entrees and side dishes. It can add a creamy and cheesy element to dishes like casseroles, omelettes, and sandwich melts. Its versatility allows you to get creative and elevate your favourite recipes.

Nutritional information

Land O Lakes® American Cheese is a processed cheese product made from natural cheeses like cheddar, Colby, and Monterey Jack, which are blended and heated with added emulsifiers to give a smooth and quick melt.

The nutritional value of Land O Lakes® American Cheese will vary depending on the type of cheese, be it the Extra Melt® Cheese Loaf, the Cheese Sauce, or Shredded Cheese. However, the following information can be used as a general guide:

A 1-ounce (28g) serving of Land O Lakes® American Cheese typically provides 1 M/MA. The product contains cultured pasteurized milk and skim milk, cream, milkfat, salt, and less than 2% of sodium phosphate, annatto extract and apo-carotenal (colors), and enzymes. It also contains 9 grams of fat per 1-ounce portion, with the reduced-fat version containing 6 grams of fat, and the light mozzarella string cheese containing 3 grams of fat per 1-ounce portion.

The shelf life of the cheese is 90 days guaranteed, with a maximum shelf life of 270 days. Once opened, the cheese should be re-wrapped securely to keep air out and moisture in, and it should be consumed within 7 days, and before the expiration date. It is not recommended to freeze the cheese as it changes the texture, making it crumbly.

Frequently asked questions