Extra Cheese Melt: How Long Does It Really Last?

Land O'Lakes® Extra Melt® American Cheese is a versatile, premium, process cheese that can be sliced, diced, shredded, or melted. It is a popular choice for chefs due to its consistent performance, superior hot-hold capabilities, and rich, creamy taste. While the product does not need to be frozen, it is important to note that it has a maximum shelf life. In this article, we will explore the shelf life of Land O'Lakes Extra Cheese Melt and provide tips on storage to ensure its longevity.

The shelf life of Land O'Lakes Extra Cheese Melt is 60 days guaranteed, with a maximum of 270 days

The Land O'Lakes Extra Cheese Melt has a guaranteed shelf life of 60 days and a maximum shelf life of 270 days. This means that the product is guaranteed to last 60 days, but it may last up to 270 days. It is important to note that the shelf life of this product is dependent on proper storage conditions.

Land O'Lakes recommends that all cheese products, including the Extra Cheese Melt, be stored under refrigeration at temperatures between 35°F to 40°F (1.6 to 4.4°C). Proper storage is crucial to ensure the quality and longevity of the cheese. Once the package is opened, it is best to use the cheese within 5 to 7 days.

To maintain freshness and prevent spoilage, the cheese should be re-wrapped securely after opening to keep air out and moisture in. It is also recommended to store the cheese in the center part of the refrigerator, rather than on the door, as temperature fluctuations can affect the quality. Additionally, it is important to use clean cutting utensils and work surfaces when handling the cheese to prevent contamination and maintain its shelf life.

While the cheese can be frozen, it is not recommended as it can change the texture, making it crumbly. If freezing is necessary, it should be thawed in the refrigerator, and even then, it is best used in cooked dishes rather than as a standalone ingredient. Overall, proper storage and handling are key to maximizing the shelf life of Land O'Lakes Extra Cheese Melt.

It is not recommended to freeze cheese

Land O'Lakes Extra Melt® American Cheese Loaf has a guaranteed shelf life of 60 days and a maximum shelf life of 270 days. It is not recommended to freeze cheese, as it changes the texture, usually resulting in crumbly cheese.

Why You Shouldn't Freeze Cheese

Cheese can be frozen, but it is not recommended, as it can negatively affect the texture and quality. When cheese is frozen, small ice crystals form inside, disrupting its internal structure. When it is thawed, water is released, causing the cheese to dry out and become crumbly, and potentially developing a mealy texture. This change in texture can affect how the cheese performs under heat, making it less meltable.

Freezing cheese is especially detrimental to soft, ripened cheeses, such as brie, Camembert, fontina, or Muenster, as well as fresh curd cheeses like cottage cheese, ricotta, and quark, due to their high moisture content. For these varieties, it is best to buy and serve them fresh.

Freezing cheese can also halt the ripening process of cheeses with beneficial, active mold populations, such as blue cheese. The low temperatures can damage the molds that are essential to the ripening process, potentially decreasing their overall sensory quality.

While harder, industrial cheeses like cheddar are better suited for freezing, they will still become drier, more crumbly, and harder to slice.

Best Practices for Freezing Cheese

If you do decide to freeze your cheese, there are several steps you can take to ensure the least loss of quality. Portion the cheese into quantities that you are likely to use at one time, as cheese that has been frozen and thawed should not be refrozen. Wrap the cheese in foil or cheese paper, or place it in an airtight ziplock bag or container to prevent dry air from getting in and causing freezer burn.

Freeze the cheese as rapidly as possible to at least -9 °F (-23 °C) to prevent the formation of large, disruptive ice crystals. Use the cheese within 6-9 months for the best quality.

Using Frozen Cheese

Frozen cheese is best suited for cooked dishes where changes to texture are less noticeable, such as sauces, pizza, or grilled cheese sandwiches.

The best temperature to store cheese is between 35°F to 40°F

Land O'Lakes Extra Melt American Cheese is a premium, process cheese that can be sliced, diced, shredded, or melted. It has a guaranteed shelf life of 60 days and a maximum shelf life of 270 days.

Once the package is opened, it is best to use the cheese within 5 to 7 days. It is important to rewrap the cheese securely in airtight plastic wrap, aluminium foil, or a resealable plastic bag. The best temperature to store cheese is between 35°F to 40°F (1.6 to 4.4° C). This temperature range helps to keep the cheese fresh and prevents mold growth. Warmer temperatures can accelerate the growth of mold, so it is important to maintain the recommended temperature range.

Storing cheese at the correct temperature is crucial for maintaining its quality and prolonging its shelf life. At 35°F to 40°F, the cheese will remain in optimal condition, retaining its flavour, texture, and nutritional value. This temperature range also inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause spoilage.

Additionally, it is recommended to store cheese in the centre of the refrigerator, rather than in the door, as the temperature fluctuations near the door can affect the cheese's quality. By following these storage guidelines, individuals can ensure that their Land O'Lakes Extra Melt American Cheese remains fresh, tasty, and safe to consume throughout its shelf life.

The best way to prevent mould is to use clean utensils and wrap the cheese tightly in plastic film

The Land O'Lakes Extra Cheese Melt has a guaranteed shelf life of 60 days and a maximum shelf life of 270 days. However, once the package is opened, it is best to use the cheese within 5 to 7 days. To make the cheese last as long as possible, it is important to prevent mould.

Another important factor in preventing mould is 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 will accelerate mould growth, so it is important to avoid storing the cheese in the refrigerator door, where temperatures may be higher.

By following these steps and using clean utensils and tight plastic wrapping, you can effectively prevent mould and make the most of the shelf life of your Land O'Lakes Extra Cheese Melt.

Land O'Lakes Extra Cheese Melt is versatile and can be sliced, diced, shredded, or melted

Land O'Lakes Extra Cheese Melt is a versatile product with a long shelf life. It can be sliced, diced, shredded, or melted and used in a variety of dishes. The cheese has a guaranteed shelf life of 60 days and a maximum shelf life of 270 days. This means that you can always have some on hand to add to your meals.

The ability to slice the cheese means it can be used in sandwiches or on burgers, adding a creamy, cheesy flavor. It can also be diced, which is perfect for sprinkling on top of salads or soups for a tasty, rich topping. If you're looking to make a dish with a cheesy sauce, the Extra Cheese Melt can be shredded and added to pasta bakes, mac and cheese, or soups. It blends well with natural cheese and has superior melting capabilities, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.

The versatility of this product doesn't stop there—it can also be melted and used as a base for sauces or dips. Create a delicious queso dip or add some milk, water, or stock for a cheesy soup. You can even get creative and add your own ingredients, such as chilies, onion, or meat, to make it your own signature dish. The consistent performance of the Extra Cheese Melt means it can withstand temperature changes and hold its taste and texture.

With its long shelf life, ease of use, and versatility, Land O'Lakes Extra Cheese Melt is a great option for kitchens and food businesses. It saves time and increases the ability to create amazing dishes with a consistent, great taste and creamy texture. The cheese can be used across a wide range of menu items, from appetizers to mains, adding a craveable dairy flavor to any meal.

Frequently asked questions