Cheese Lifespan: Unopened In Fridge, How Long?

How long does unopened cheese last in the fridge? This is a question many cheese lovers may ask themselves. The answer depends on the type of cheese. Hard cheeses, such as Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyere, can last for several months and even up to a year when stored in the fridge. On the other hand, soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert have a shorter shelf life, typically lasting for a few weeks to a couple of months. Unopened blocks of hard cheese can last for about 6 months in the refrigerator.

Hard cheeses can last up to a year in the fridge

Hard cheeses, such as Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda, can last for several months to a year in the fridge if they remain unopened. This is because they have a lower moisture content, which inhibits bacterial growth and extends their shelf life. Hard cheeses can even be stored without refrigeration, although they will last much longer if they are kept in a refrigerator.

The shelf life of hard cheeses can be maximized by proper storage methods. This involves removing the cheese from its plastic packaging and wrapping it loosely in a breathable material, such as wax or cheese paper, before placing it in an airtight container. This allows the cheese to breathe and release moisture while protecting it from low humidity in the fridge.

It is important to note that hard cheeses can still spoil, and it is always advisable to inspect the cheese for any signs of spoilage, such as mould, discolouration, or changes in texture, before consuming it. If mould is present, cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the affected areas. Additionally, hard cheeses can develop white specks or crystallized patches, which are typically safe to consume and are a result of calcium lactate crystals forming from the combination of lactic acid and calcium in the cheese.

While hard cheeses have a longer shelf life than soft cheeses, they should still be consumed within a reasonable timeframe. After opening, hard cheeses can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks.

Soft cheeses last a few weeks to a couple of months

Soft cheeses, such as Brie, Camembert, ricotta, feta, mozzarella, goat's cheese, and cream cheese, have a shorter shelf life than hard cheeses. This is because they have a higher moisture content, which makes them more perishable. Unopened soft cheeses typically last a few weeks to a couple of months past their 'best by' date when stored in the refrigerator. Once opened, soft cheeses are best consumed within a week or two.

To extend the shelf life of unopened soft cheeses, proper storage is key. For cheese sold in brine, like feta or fresh mozzarella, keep it in the liquid and make sure the container's lid is secure. For blue cheese, you can wrap them in foil. Soft-ripened cheese, like Brie, has a delicate rind, so it's best to wrap it in cheese paper, or parchment paper, and keep it in an airtight container.

It's important to note that even if the 'best by' date has passed, cheese often remains safe to eat if it's stored properly. However, it's always a good idea to inspect your cheese for any signs of spoilage, such as mould, discolouration, or changes in texture or taste. If you're unsure, it's better to be safe and throw it out.

Fresh cheeses like ricotta and cottage cheese last a few weeks

Fresh cheeses like ricotta and cottage cheese are versatile ingredients that can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. However, due to their high moisture content, they are more susceptible to bacterial growth and spoilage than harder cheeses. Therefore, it is important to monitor their shelf life and consume them within a few weeks of purchase to ensure optimal quality and safety.

For ricotta cheese, an unopened container will typically last for about two weeks in the fridge. This duration may vary depending on the storage conditions and the "sell by" or "best before" date on the package. It is recommended to continuously refrigerate ricotta and maintain a cold temperature of around 35-40°F to slow bacterial growth.

Similarly, unopened cottage cheese will generally keep for about one week after the date on the container, assuming continuous refrigeration. Like ricotta, the exact duration may depend on storage conditions, and it should be kept refrigerated at all times.

To further extend the shelf life of these fresh cheeses, you can freeze them. To do so, place them in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. However, it is important to note that thawed cottage cheese and ricotta may become crumbly and lose some of their flavour. Therefore, they are best suited for cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups, and casseroles.

When it comes to determining if your fresh cheese has gone bad, trust your senses. If the cheese turns yellow or develops an off odour or flavour, it's best to discard it. Additionally, if there are any signs of mould, discard the entire package.

Cheddar cheese can last a year or more past its 'best by' date

Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese with a lower moisture content, which helps extend its shelf life. While soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert have a shorter shelf life, hard cheeses like Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda can last for several months to a year or more when stored in the fridge, even if unopened.

The "best by" or "sell by" dates on cheese are guidelines for quality, not safety. Cheddar cheese can last a year or more past its best-by date if stored properly in the fridge. However, once opened, exposure to air and potential bacterial contamination cause the shelf life to decline considerably. When stored in the refrigerator in a wrapper or airtight container, opened Cheddar cheese can last for a few weeks to a couple of months.

To maximize the shelf life of Cheddar cheese, it is important to store it properly. This includes keeping it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in the coldest part of the fridge. Additionally, maintaining a safe fridge temperature of below 40°F (4°C) is crucial. Higher temperatures increase the rate at which bacteria multiply, raising the risk of spoilage.

It is also worth noting that hard cheeses like Cheddar are less prone to spoilage from bacteria. If you notice any mold on hard cheese, simply cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below those spots. However, for soft cheeses, it is recommended to discard them if mold is present.

Signs of spoilage: sour smell, mould, discolouration, unusual texture

When it comes to cheese, spoilage can be identified through several tell-tale signs, including sour smell, mould, discolouration, and unusual texture. Here's a detailed breakdown of each of these indicators:

Sour Smell:

A sour, rancid, or ammonia-like odour is a clear sign of cheese spoilage. This smell is often described as pungent and acrid, resembling cleaning products or urine. It is caused by the breakdown of proteins and fats in the cheese by bacteria. While some cheeses have a naturally pungent aroma, a strong deviation from their typical scent indicates spoilage. For example, a mild cheese smelling strong, akin to blue cheese or Limburger, has likely gone bad.

Mould:

Mould growth is another crucial indicator of cheese spoilage. While some types of mould are intentionally added to cheeses like Stilton or Brie to achieve specific flavours and textures, uncontrolled or unintended mould growth can render the cheese unsafe. Different types of mould can manifest in various colours and patterns, such as blue, red, or white spots. It is essential to discard cheese with unusual or excessive mould growth, as consuming it may lead to health risks.

Discolouration:

Any significant change in the colour of cheese can be a warning sign of spoilage. This can be due to oxidation, where the beta-carotene in cow's milk breaks down, causing the cheese to lose its yellow hue and appear whiter. Additionally, browning can occur in cheeses like Gouda and Parmesan due to a complex reaction between reducing sugars and amino acids from protein breakdown. While discolouration may not always indicate safety concerns, it will negatively impact the flavour and texture of the cheese.

Unusual Texture:

Changes in the texture of cheese can also signify spoilage. Hard cheeses like Cheddar may start to crack due to alterations in moisture content and bacterial growth. On the other hand, soft cheeses like Camembert can become slimy due to the growth of unwanted bacteria, resulting in an unappealing odour. Excessive softness or stickiness in fresh cheese often indicates the presence of unusual liquids or crystals, which are signs of spoilage.

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