The Lifespan Of Swiss Cheese: Deli Edition

Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient, adding a mild, nutty flavour to sandwiches, burgers, salads, casseroles, soups, and more. But how long does it last in the fridge? The answer depends on several factors, including whether the cheese is opened or unopened, and how it is stored.

How to store Swiss cheese in the fridge

Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient that can add flavour to any dish. However, it is important to store it properly to prolong its freshness and maximize its flavour. Here are some tips on how to store Swiss cheese in the fridge:

Keep it Cool

Maintain a cool temperature in your fridge to slow down bacteria and prevent the cheese from going bad. The ideal temperature for storing Swiss cheese is between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C).

Wrap it Up

First, wrap the Swiss cheese in wax or parchment paper. Then, place it in a plastic bag or an airtight container to keep moisture out while allowing the cheese to breathe. Alternatively, you can wrap it in a plastic wrap specifically designed for cheese.

Find the Right Spot

Store Swiss cheese in the cheese drawer of your fridge, if you have one. This drawer is designed to maintain the optimal humidity for cheese. If your fridge does not have a cheese drawer, opt for the middle shelves as they provide a more stable temperature. Avoid placing Swiss cheese in the fridge door, as the temperature fluctuates wildly each time the door is opened or closed.

Separate the Cheese

Keep different types of cheese separate to avoid mixing flavours and potential cross-contamination.

Check Regularly

Inspect your Swiss cheese regularly for any signs of spoilage. If you notice mould, an off smell, or a strange texture, discard the cheese.

Additional Tips

• Get the Swiss cheese into the fridge as soon as possible after purchasing or slicing it.
• Always use clean hands and utensils when handling the cheese to avoid the transfer of bacteria.
• If you intend to freeze your Swiss cheese, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

How to wrap Swiss cheese

To make Swiss cheese last longer, it is important to wrap it properly. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Choose the Right Material:

Start by selecting the appropriate wrapping material. The best options are wax paper, parchment paper, or cheese paper. These materials allow the cheese to breathe while preventing excess moisture. Avoid using plastic wrap as it can trap moisture and cause mould.

Wrap the Cheese:

Take a sheet of wax or parchment paper and wrap the Swiss cheese tightly. Make sure to cover all surfaces of the cheese. You can also use cheese paper, but it tends to be more expensive.

Add a Protective Layer:

After wrapping the cheese in paper, add an extra layer of protection. You can use plastic wrap or place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container or a plastic bag. This helps keep out unwanted air and moisture, extending the shelf life of the Swiss cheese.

Label and Date:

It is a good idea to label the wrapped cheese, especially if you are storing multiple types of cheese. Write the name of the cheese on a piece of cardstock or directly on the wrapping. Include the date of purchase so you can keep track of how long you've had it.

Store in the Fridge:

Once wrapped, store the Swiss cheese in the refrigerator. The best place is the cheese drawer or the middle shelves, which maintain a stable temperature. Avoid placing it on the fridge door, as the temperature fluctuates there. Keep the fridge temperature below 40°F (4°C) to slow down bacteria growth and prevent spoilage.

Check Regularly:

Even with proper wrapping and storage, Swiss cheese has a limited shelf life. Check it regularly for any signs of spoilage, such as mould, an off smell, or a weird texture. If you see any green, blue, or black spots, or if the cheese feels slimy, rock-hard, or crumbly, it's time to discard it.

Remember, proper wrapping and storage can help extend the life of Swiss cheese, but it will eventually spoil. Enjoy your cheese at its peak freshness, and don't hesitate to discard it if you have any doubts about its quality.

How to tell if Swiss cheese has gone bad

Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient that can add a creamy texture and a delicious flavour to your dishes. However, it is important to ensure that the cheese is still good to eat. Here are some ways to tell if Swiss cheese has gone bad:

Appearance

Swiss cheese should be a pale yellow colour. If you notice any green, blue, or black spots, it is time to discard the cheese. Swiss cheese should not have any mould on it.

Texture

Fresh Swiss cheese has a firm and slightly springy texture. If it feels slimy, rock-hard, or crumbly, it has probably gone bad.

Smell

Swiss cheese should have a mild and nutty aroma. If it has developed a strong, sour, or ammonia-like smell, it is an indication that the cheese has spoiled.

Taste

If the cheese tastes bitter or off, it is not safe to eat.

Other factors

• Best-before date: Although not a definitive indicator, it is best to inspect your cheese for any signs of spoilage, especially if it is past its best-before date.
• Storage conditions: Swiss cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at all times. The ideal temperature is between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C).
• Handling: Minimise handling the cheese with your hands to prevent the transfer of bacteria. Always use clean utensils when cutting or serving the cheese.

How to freeze Swiss cheese

Swiss cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life, but it may become crumbly and lose some of its flavour. Frozen Swiss cheese is best suited for cooked dishes where changes to its texture are less noticeable.

To freeze Swiss cheese, start by wrapping it in parchment or wax paper. Then, wrap it loosely in plastic wrap. Finally, add a layer of heavy-duty aluminium foil. Place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring no moisture has made its way in, as this can cause ice crystals that affect the cheese. Alternatively, use a vacuum sealer to remove air and prevent freezer burn.

When properly wrapped, Swiss cheese can last up to six months in the freezer. Frozen cheese should be defrosted in the refrigerator and used quickly.

How long does deli cheese last?

Deli cheese is a processed version of real cheese, with preservatives and chemicals added to extend its shelf life. It is designed to last longer than regular soft cheeses.

The shelf life of deli cheese depends on a few factors, including whether it has been opened, how it is packaged, and the temperature at which it is stored.

If stored properly, unopened deli cheese can last for up to four weeks beyond its printed sell-by date. Once opened, it is best to consume deli cheese within one to two weeks to ensure optimal flavour and safety.

To maximise the shelf life of unopened deli cheese, keep it sealed and store it in the refrigerator. Do not store deli cheese anywhere else, as high temperatures are the main cause of spoilage. If the package has been opened, use plastic wrap to cover the cheese tightly.

Deli cheese can last up to four weeks past its expiration date if stored properly. However, the sell-by date is only a suggestion, and cheese can go bad before this date, depending on storage conditions.

When determining if deli cheese has spoiled, look for signs of spoilage such as an odd or funky smell, a change in colour, or the presence of fungus or mould. If any of these signs are present, the cheese should be discarded.

To extend the shelf life of deli cheese even further, it can be frozen. Frozen deli cheese can last for up to 10 months, although it is recommended to consume it within eight to 10 months. To freeze deli cheese, wrap each slice individually in parchment paper and then place the whole block in a freezer bag. Alternatively, wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and place it in a freezer bag or airtight container.

Frequently asked questions