Mozzarella Cheese Balls: How Long Do They Last?

Fresh mozzarella is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can elevate many dishes, from pizzas to salads and sandwiches. However, its high moisture content means it has a shorter shelf life than harder cheeses like cheddar. So, how long does unopened mozzarella last in the fridge?

Vacuum-sealed mozzarella can last up to 4-6 weeks

Vacuum-sealed mozzarella can last up to four to six weeks in the fridge. This is assuming that it's salted and stored at the correct temperature. It's important to always check the use-by date on the package, too.

Mozzarella is a soft cheese with a high moisture content, which means it can spoil faster than harder cheeses like cheddar or Parmigiano Reggiano if it's not stored properly. To maximise the shelf life of an unopened ball of mozzarella, it should be kept in the fridge at all times and stored in an airtight container.

Once the vacuum seal is broken, the cheese will only last three to five days in the fridge. After this, it may begin to show signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell, slimy texture, or mould growth. If mould appears on the cheese, it should be discarded.

To extend the shelf life of mozzarella, it can be frozen. Fresh mozzarella can be cut into portions and wrapped tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or placed inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen mozzarella will maintain its best quality for about six months but will remain safe to eat beyond this time.

Unopened, it can be frozen for 4-6 months

Properly storing mozzarella is crucial to maintaining its quality and extending its shelf life. Unopened mozzarella cheese in its vacuum-sealed package can be kept in the fridge until you're ready to use it. It will typically last up to a week past its expiration date if stored correctly.

If you're looking for an even longer storage option, you can consider freezing your unopened mozzarella. Freezing can extend the shelf life of mozzarella by several months. When properly stored, it will maintain its best quality for about 4-6 months but will remain safe beyond that time.

To freeze your unopened mozzarella, wrap the cheese tightly in plastic freezer wrap or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to label the package with the date so you can keep track of how long it has been frozen.

Once you're ready to use the frozen mozzarella, thaw it in the refrigerator and use it within 7 to 28 days. It's important to note that freezing can affect the texture and flavour of the cheese, making it crumbly and less flavourful. Therefore, it is best suited for cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups, and casseroles.

Opened mozzarella should be consumed within a week

Fresh mozzarella cheese is a soft cheese with a high moisture content, which means it has a shorter shelf life than harder cheeses. To keep it fresh for as long as possible, it's important to follow some simple storage guidelines.

Firstly, always keep mozzarella refrigerated. It should be stored in its original packaging and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. For even better protection, wrap the cheese first in wax or parchment paper and then cover it with plastic wrap before placing it in the fridge. This will help to extend the shelf life of the cheese.

Once opened, fresh mozzarella cheese will typically last for about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. However, it's important to consume it within a week to ensure optimal freshness and flavour. After this time, it may start to show signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell, a slimy texture, or mould growth.

If you want to extend the shelf life of fresh mozzarella cheese even further, you can freeze it. Cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound each and wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place them inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen mozzarella cheese will maintain its best quality for about 6 months, but it may become crumbly and lose some of its flavour.

In summary, to ensure you get the most out of your mozzarella cheese, it's important to store it properly and consume it within a week of opening. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the delicious, mild flavour and creamy texture of fresh mozzarella for longer.

Low-moisture mozzarella lasts longer

Low-moisture mozzarella has a longer shelf life than its fresh counterpart. This is because it has been dried further, which gives it excellent melting qualities and makes it a popular choice for pizza toppings.

When stored unopened in the fridge, low-moisture mozzarella can last anywhere from three to seven weeks, depending on the packaging and storage conditions. To ensure maximum freshness, it should be wrapped tightly in parchment paper and stored in an airtight container. This will help prevent mold growth and keep the cheese tasting its best.

If you're looking to extend the shelf life of low-moisture mozzarella even further, freezing is a great option. When frozen, this type of cheese can last between four and six months past the use-by date. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator and use it within seven to 28 days after opening.

It's important to note that freezing any type of cheese can affect its texture, so while it may be safe to eat, it might not have the same creamy mouthfeel as fresh cheese. However, this won't impact its ability to melt, so it's still perfect for cooking!

Additionally, always remember to follow best practices for food safety. Check the cheese for any signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell, slimy texture, or mold growth, and consume it within the recommended time frames for the best quality and taste.

Signs of spoilage include a sour smell, slimy texture, and mould

It is important to check for signs of spoilage to avoid foodborne illnesses. Here are the most common signs to look out for:

Sour Smell

Mozzarella should have a mild, pleasant smell. If it smells sour or off, it has gone bad. This is caused by the production of acetic and propionic acids by spoilage bacteria.

Slimy Texture

Fresh mozzarella that has gone bad may become slimy or sticky to the touch. This is due to the presence of certain bacteria, such as Alcaligenes viscolactis, which produces ropiness and sliminess.

Mould Growth

Any visible mould on fresh mozzarella is a clear indicator that it should be discarded. Mould growth can make the cheese unpleasant in appearance, give it a musty odour, and cause liquefaction. Moulds responsible for spoilage include Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Mucor, Fusarium, Monilia, and Alternaria.

Discolouration

White mozzarella that develops black mould or blue spots is no longer safe to eat. This discolouration is caused by the production of pigments by certain bacteria and moulds.

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