Shredded Cheese: How Long Does It Last?

How long does opened shredded cheese last in the fridge? The answer depends on the type of cheese. Hard cheeses like parmesan and Swiss should be eaten within a month of opening, while soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella will only be good for one to two weeks. If you're looking to extend the shelf life of your shredded cheese, you can always pop it in the freezer, where it will last for up to six months.

Hard shredded cheese should be eaten within a month

To ensure your hard shredded cheese lasts as long as possible, it's important to follow the proper storage steps. Firstly, remove the cheese from its plastic packaging. Then, wrap it loosely in cheese paper or wax paper. Finally, put the cheese in a container with an airtight lid. This will help to keep your hard shredded cheese fresh for up to four weeks.

It's worth noting that the shelf life of hard shredded cheese may vary depending on the specific type of cheese and the storage conditions. For example, if the cheese is not stored properly or the refrigerator temperature is too high, it may spoil faster. Additionally, some hard cheeses may last slightly longer than four weeks, especially if they are unopened.

To maximise the shelf life of hard shredded cheese, it is recommended to store it in a safe refrigerator temperature, below 40°F (4°C). This will help to prevent bacterial growth and keep the cheese fresh for a longer period.

Soft shredded cheese will last one to two weeks

To make soft shredded cheese last longer, it's important to store it properly. This type of cheese should be wrapped in a layer of parchment or wax paper, followed by a loose layer of foil. You can also use cheese paper, which is porous and allows the cheese to breathe. It's best to avoid using plastic wrap, as this can dry out the cheese and give it a plastic-like flavour.

When storing soft shredded cheese, it's also important to keep it in a container with an airtight lid and to maintain a safe fridge temperature of below 40°F (4°C). This will help to prevent spoilage and the growth of bacteria.

Additionally, when purchasing soft shredded cheese, it's recommended to only buy what you need for the week ahead. This is because soft shredded cheese has a shorter shelf life and is more susceptible to spoilage.

By following these storage guidelines and purchasing the right amount, you can ensure that your soft shredded cheese lasts for one to two weeks in the fridge.

An unopened bag can be kept in the fridge for a week or two

An unopened bag of shredded cheese can be kept in the fridge for a week or two. This is because shredded cheese is considered a "crumbled" or "sliced" variety of cheese, which falls under the soft cheese category. Soft cheeses tend to spoil more quickly than hard cheeses. This is because soft cheeses have a higher moisture content, which provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.

Therefore, it is important to inspect your cheese to make sure it is safe to eat, regardless of the best-by date. If you notice any mold on soft cheese, including shredded cheese, it is best to discard it. However, if you notice mold on hard cheese, you can simply cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below those spots.

To extend the shelf life of shredded cheese, proper storage is essential. It is recommended to wrap the cheese in wax, parchment, or cheese paper and store it in the top or middle shelf or in a drawer of the fridge. Additionally, keep shredded cheese away from raw meats, poultry, and fish to avoid contamination.

Freezing shredded cheese can extend its life by several months

Freezing shredded cheese is a great way to extend its shelf life and avoid waste. When stored in the fridge, opened shredded cheese can last for about a week. However, freezing it can increase its shelf life by several months.

To freeze shredded cheese, it is recommended to shred a block of cheese and then place it in an airtight, resealable plastic freezer bag. Removing as much air as possible from the bag before sealing and freezing helps to prevent freezer burn and extends the cheese's life. Spreading the shredded cheese on a tray or cookie sheet and freezing it first can also help to prevent clumping.

Once frozen, shredded cheese can be stored for up to three months. It is best to use the cheese within two to three months of freezing to ensure the best texture and quality. When ready to use, the cheese can be defrosted overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Using it straight from the freezer is also an option, as frozen shredded cheese melts easily and any changes in texture are unnoticeable once melted.

Freezing shredded cheese is a convenient way to make it last longer, but it's important to note that the texture may change slightly. Frozen shredded cheese is perfect for cooking, baking, and adding to dishes like pizza, casseroles, and mac and cheese.

Use your judgement: if it smells bad, don't eat it

When it comes to shredded cheese, it's important to use your judgement to determine if it's still safe to eat. While shredded cheese can generally last from one week to one month in the fridge after opening, this duration depends on various factors, and the cheese may spoil earlier. Here are some signs to look out for:

Trust Your Nose

As the saying goes, "if it smells bad, don't eat it." This is especially true for cheese. While some types of cheese are known for their pungent aroma, spoiled cheese often has an especially strong, unpleasant, and rancid odour. It may smell sour, putrid, or even like ammonia, urine, or cleaning products. If your shredded cheese has developed such an odour, it's best to discard it.

Check for Mould

Mould growth is another crucial indicator of cheese spoilage. If you notice any mould on your shredded cheese, it's important to discard it, especially if it's a soft cheese or if the mould is not the desirable kind intentionally added to certain cheeses. However, if you notice only a small amount of mould on a hard cheese, you can try cutting off the affected area plus about an inch around it and then use the rest of the cheese.

Observe Texture Changes

Changes in the texture of the cheese can also indicate spoilage. Hard cheeses may start to crack due to changes in moisture content and bacterial growth. Soft cheeses, such as Camembert, may become slimy due to the growth of unwanted bacteria. If you notice any significant changes in the texture of your shredded cheese, it's best to discard it.

Other Signs of Spoilage

Other signs that your shredded cheese has gone bad include discolouration, a bitter taste, or the presence of white specks or crystallised patches (although these could also be harmless calcium lactate crystals in aged hard cheeses).

To summarise, while shredded cheese can last for a limited time in the fridge, it's important to use your senses to judge its freshness. If it smells, looks, or feels off, it's best to discard it to avoid any potential health risks associated with consuming spoiled food.

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