Sliced American Cheese: How Long Does It Really Last?

Sliced American cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in sandwiches, burgers, sauces, soups, casseroles, and more. It is a popular choice due to its creamy texture and meltability. When it comes to how long sliced American cheese lasts in the fridge, it depends on various factors such as the form it is sold in, whether it is processed or real cheese, and storage conditions. In general, unopened American cheese can last in the refrigerator for up to four months, while individual slices should be consumed within two to three weeks of opening to maintain the best taste and quality.

Storage conditions

The longevity of sliced American cheese depends on several storage conditions. Firstly, it is crucial to store the cheese at the correct temperature. The ideal temperature range for refrigeration is between 35°F and 40°F (approximately 1.7°C to 4.4°C). Maintaining a constant temperature within this range will help prevent spoilage and slow down bacterial and mould growth.

To achieve this, it is recommended to store the cheese in the centre of the refrigerator, avoiding the door, as this area may be more susceptible to temperature fluctuations. Additionally, the cheese should be kept away from raw meats, poultry, and fish to avoid contamination.

Proper wrapping and sealing are also essential. Sliced American cheese should be securely wrapped in airtight packaging, such as plastic wrap, aluminium foil, or placed in a resealable plastic food bag. This helps to prevent excess exposure to air and moisture, which can accelerate spoilage and affect the cheese's texture and taste.

For long-term storage, freezing is an option. However, it is important to note that freezing may alter the texture and taste of the cheese. Before freezing, wrap each slice individually with plastic freezer wrap or aluminium foil, followed by a layer of freezer paper or wax paper, and then place them inside heavy-duty freezer bags. This process helps prevent freezer burn and the absorption of other odours.

When thawing frozen cheese, it is best to do so slowly and gradually in the refrigerator to preserve the cheese's texture and taste. Rapid thawing methods, such as room temperature thawing or using a microwave, are not recommended.

In summary, maintaining a consistent temperature, proper wrapping and sealing, and utilising freezing as a long-term storage option are key storage conditions to maximise the shelf life of sliced American cheese.

Refrigeration

The length of time that sliced American cheese lasts in the fridge depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, the storage conditions, and the sell-by date.

Type of Cheese

Soft cheeses tend to spoil more quickly than hard cheeses. Sliced American cheese is a semi-soft variety, so it falls somewhere in the middle of the spectrum.

Storage Conditions

To maximise the shelf life of sliced American cheese, it should be kept in its original deli packaging and refrigerated at all times before opening. The ideal temperature for storing cheese is between 35° to 40°F (1.7-4.4°C). It is best stored in the centre of the fridge, rather than in the door, to maintain a consistent temperature.

Once the package is opened, the cheese should be consumed within 5-7 days for the best quality. To maintain freshness, it should be stored in an airtight container or securely wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. It is beneficial to label the cheese with the opening date to accurately track its freshness.

Sell-by Date

Even if the sell-by date on the package expires during the storage period, the cheese will remain safe to use after this date if it has been properly stored.

Freezing

To further extend the shelf life of sliced American cheese, it can be frozen. When freezing, place the cheese in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed. To maximise its shelf life in the freezer, wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil, plastic freezer wrap, or place it in heavy-duty freezer bags.

Properly stored, sliced American cheese will maintain its best quality for about 6-8 months in the freezer, but it will remain safe to eat beyond that time. Frozen cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavour, so it is best suited for cooked dishes such as sauces, soups, and casseroles.

Freezing

To freeze sliced American deli cheese, start by wrapping the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap. Alternatively, you can place the cheese in heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to expel as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it tightly. This process helps to prevent freezer burn and the cheese from absorbing other odours.

Once the cheese is properly wrapped or sealed, place it in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed. When stored at a constant temperature of 0°F, sliced American deli cheese can be safely frozen indefinitely. However, for the best quality, it is recommended to consume the cheese within 6-8 months.

To thaw the cheese, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and leave it overnight to allow for gradual thawing. Rapid thawing at room temperature or using a microwave is not recommended as it can affect the texture and taste of the cheese. Once thawed, it is best to use the cheese within a couple of days.

Signs of spoilage

Sliced American cheese is a versatile and tasty ingredient. However, it is a dairy product and can spoil. To avoid this, it is important to follow storage guidelines and also be aware of the signs of spoilage.

Visual and Textural Changes

The presence of mould is a clear indication that cheese has spoiled. This could be green, black, or white spots. Discolouration, yellowing, or darkening beyond the normal colour of the cheese might also signal spoilage. Dried-out edges, slimy or tacky surfaces, and signs of dryness or crumbling are also signs of spoilage.

Off Smells and Altered Tastes

A sour or unpleasant odour that differs from its typically mild, creamy scent is a sign of spoilage. An ammonia-like smell is also a cause for concern. While tasting is not recommended, a sour or unusual flavour will confirm that the cheese is not fit for consumption.

Shelf life

Sliced American cheese purchased from the deli has a varied shelf life depending on several factors. Firstly, the type of cheese is important: soft cheeses tend to spoil more quickly than hard cheeses. American cheese is considered a soft cheese, so it will not last as long as harder varieties.

Another factor is the storage conditions. Sliced American cheese should be kept in the refrigerator at all times, at a temperature between 35-40°F (1.7-4.4°C). It should be consumed within 2-3 weeks of purchasing to maintain the best taste and quality. However, if it has been properly stored, it may be safe to consume after its sell-by date.

To extend the shelf life of sliced American cheese, it can be frozen. When freezing, wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic freezer wrap, or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen cheese can be kept indefinitely at a constant temperature of 0°F, but it will maintain its best quality for about 8 months. After being frozen and thawed, sliced American cheese can be kept for an additional 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

It is important to note that freezing may alter the texture and taste of the cheese, making it crumbly and less flavorful. Therefore, it is recommended to use frozen and thawed cheese in cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups, and casseroles.

To determine if sliced American cheese has gone bad, check for any changes in odor, flavor, appearance, or texture. If the cheese develops an off odor, flavor, or appearance, or if mold appears, it should be discarded.

Frequently asked questions