Shredded Cheese: How Long Does It Really Last?

Shredded cheese is a convenient way to add flavour to a variety of dishes, from nachos to chilli. But how long does it last in the fridge after the best before date? According to food scientist Janilyn Hutchings, the dates on shredded cheese are merely the manufacturer's estimate of when food will taste its best. She adds that all foods, including shredded cheese, can usually still be used or eaten after their expiration dates—as long as they've been stored properly.

Hard and soft shredded cheese: how long they last

Shredded cheese is a convenient way to add flavour to a variety of dishes. But how long does it last in the fridge?

Firstly, it's important to note that there are no laws requiring food manufacturers to put date labels on foods. Therefore, the dates on shredded cheese are usually the manufacturer's estimate of when the product will taste its best. This means that shredded cheese can be consumed after its expiration date, as long as it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage.

Soft Shredded Cheese

Soft cheeses, such as cheddar and mozzarella, have a shorter shelf life than hard cheeses due to their higher moisture content, which provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Once opened, soft shredded cheese will typically last for about one to two weeks in the refrigerator. However, it's important to use your best judgement and discard the cheese if you notice any off odours, discolouration, or mould.

Hard Shredded Cheese

Hard cheeses, such as parmesan and Swiss cheese, have a longer shelf life than soft cheeses due to their lower moisture content, which makes it difficult for bacteria to grow. Once opened, hard shredded cheese can be safely consumed for about a month if stored properly. As with soft cheese, it's important to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming hard shredded cheese that is past its expiration date.

Freezing Shredded Cheese

If you want to extend the shelf life of shredded cheese, you can freeze it. Frozen shredded cheese can be safely consumed within six months from the date it was purchased. However, freezing may affect the texture and flavour of the cheese, making it better suited for cooked dishes like sauces, soups, and casseroles.

Freezing shredded cheese

When freezing shredded cheese, it's best to use an airtight, resealable plastic freezer bag and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn and odours. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch per pound of cheese to prevent the shreds from sticking together. Label the bag with the date and type of cheese before placing it in the freezer.

Shredded cheese can be frozen for up to two to three months without losing quality. It is best to use frozen cheese for cooking, as the change in texture will be less noticeable when the cheese is melted. You can use frozen shredded cheese in casseroles, soups, pasta, or directly on pizza—it'll melt in the oven.

To thaw frozen shredded cheese, you can either defrost it overnight in the refrigerator or leave it at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can use it straight from the freezer by breaking off or shaking out the amount you need.

How to identify spoiled cheese

Shredded cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used on pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and salads. However, it is important to know how to identify spoiled cheese to avoid consuming it. Here are some ways to determine if shredded cheese has gone bad:

Check the Expiration Date

The first thing to consider is the expiration or "best by" date on the shredded cheese packaging. While cheese can be consumed past this date, it is generally recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for food safety.

Inspect the Appearance

Visual cues can be a good indicator of whether shredded cheese has spoiled. Look for changes in color, such as dark spots or a blue/green mold developing on the surface. If you notice any discoloration or mold, it is best to discard the cheese.

Smell the Cheese

Give the shredded cheese a whiff. Spoiled cheese may emit an unpleasant, rancid odor, resembling sour milk or an ammonia-like smell. If the cheese has developed an off-putting or sour smell, it is best to avoid consuming it.

Examine the Texture

Spoiled cheese may also exhibit changes in texture. If the cheese feels crumbly, mushy, or very dry compared to how it usually feels, it has likely gone bad.

Trust Your Taste Buds

If you accidentally consume a small amount of spoiled cheese, you may notice a highly acidic or excessively sour taste. This is due to the overgrowth of bacteria in the cheese, leading to excessive fermentation.

It is important to note that soft cheeses tend to spoil faster than hard cheeses, and shredded cheese has a shorter shelf life than blocks of cheese due to increased surface area exposure. Always store shredded cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and slow down bacterial growth.

Proper storage of shredded cheese

Choosing the Right Storage Container

Use a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container to store your shredded cheese. If you're using a plastic bag, ensure it's the resealable type, and for containers, make sure they are airtight. These storage options help maintain the cheese's moisture and keep out excess air, which can cause the cheese to dry out or spoil prematurely.

Storage Location in the Fridge

Once packaged, store the shredded cheese in the refrigerator. Specifically, place it in the produce drawer or the coldest spot at the back of the fridge. This area is ideal because it's colder and has better airflow, helping to regulate the temperature and humidity levels. Additionally, keeping shredded cheese away from strongly scented foods is advisable, as cheese can absorb odours.

Storage Temperature

Maintain a safe refrigerator temperature of below 40°F (4°C). Higher temperatures increase the rate at which bacteria multiply, elevating the risk of spoilage. If your refrigerator doesn't have a built-in thermometer, consider purchasing one to monitor the temperature. Place the thermometer near the door, as it is usually the warmest spot.

Storage Duration

Shredded cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for one to two weeks after opening. However, freezing shredded cheese can extend its shelf life to up to three months. When frozen, use shredded cheese within six months for the best quality and taste.

Wrapping and Packaging

When storing shredded cheese, avoid using tight, non-porous materials like plastic wrap. Instead, opt for porous wrapping materials such as cheese paper, butcher paper, wax paper, or parchment paper. These materials allow the cheese to breathe and prevent it from drying out or developing an unpleasant plastic-like flavour.

Handling Mould

If you notice mould on your shredded cheese, it is essential to discard it entirely, even if only a small portion is mouldy. Unlike hard cheeses, soft cheeses, shredded cheeses, and crumbled cheeses should not be partially cut to remove the mouldy section. Consuming mouldy cheese can lead to food poisoning, so it's best to practise caution.

Other Considerations

Always use your best judgement before consuming shredded cheese. If you notice any off odours, discolouration, or spots of mould, discard the cheese. Additionally, inspect the cheese for changes in texture, such as sliminess or wetness, as these can also indicate spoilage.

By following these storage guidelines, you can maximise the freshness and prolong the shelf life of your shredded cheese.

How long does unopened shredded cheese last?

The shelf life of unopened shredded cheese depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, storage conditions, and the "Best Before" date on the package.

Firstly, it is important to note that there are no laws requiring food manufacturers to put date labels on foods. Therefore, the dates on your shredded cheese package are the manufacturer's estimate of when the product will taste its best. According to Janilyn Hutchings, a food scientist at State Food Safety, "All foods, including shredded cheese, can usually still be used or eaten after their expiration dates—as long as they've been stored properly."

With that in mind, unopened shredded cheese can generally last for about 1 week after the "Sell By" or "Best By" date on the package. To maximize its shelf life, it is important to keep the package sealed and refrigerated at all times before use. Additionally, freezing unopened shredded cheese can further extend its shelf life. When stored in the freezer, shredded cheese will maintain its best quality for about 6-8 months but will remain safe beyond that time.

It is worth noting that different types of shredded cheese have varying shelf lives. For example, hard cheeses like Parmesan and Swiss have a longer shelf life and can be consumed within a month of purchase, even after opening. On the other hand, soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella have a shorter shelf life and should be consumed within one to two weeks after opening.

When determining whether your unopened shredded cheese is still safe to consume, it is important to use your best judgment. If you notice any unusual odors, discoloration, or spots of mold on the cheese, it is best to discard it. Additionally, cheese that has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be discarded, as bacteria grow rapidly at room temperature.

Frequently asked questions