Vegan Cheese: How Long Does It Last?

Vegan cheese is a popular alternative to dairy cheese, but how long does it last in the fridge? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, the ingredients used, and how it is stored. Soft vegan cheeses generally last 1-4 weeks in the refrigerator, while hard vegan cheeses can last several months if stored properly. The higher the fat content and lower the water content, the longer the cheese will last. Proper storage methods, such as using airtight containers or resealable bags, can also extend the shelf life of vegan cheese by preventing spoilage and maintaining freshness. Additionally, freezing vegan cheese can be an option to extend its shelf life, although it may slightly affect its texture and flavour.

Opened vs unopened

The duration for which unopened vegan cheese lasts in the fridge varies depending on the type of cheese, ingredients used, and packaging. Some sources suggest that unopened vegan cheese can last for up to 3 months, while others state that it depends on the brand and type of cheese, with some lasting for a month and others showing signs of mould after a few days.

The packaging plays a crucial role in preserving freshness. If the cheese is not packaged in an airtight or sealed wrapper, its quality may drop within a couple of weeks, even before the best-before date. On the other hand, vegan cheese in airtight packaging can potentially last for months, even beyond its best-before date.

Once opened, vegan cheese should be consumed within a week or two for optimal taste and texture. This applies to most shredded cheese, soft cheese, vegan cream cheese, and plant-based cheese. However, an opened pack of plant-based cheddar or parmesan can last up to four weeks, and cashew-based cheese can be expected to last around a week when opened. Hard vegan cheeses, like cheddar or gouda, can last longer, generally up to 3 to 4 weeks when stored properly.

To extend the shelf life of opened vegan cheese, it is recommended to store it in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent premature spoilage.

Soft vs hard

The shelf life of vegan cheese depends on several factors, including whether it is soft or hard, the ingredients used, and how it is stored. Soft vegan cheeses, such as vegan cream cheese or ricotta, typically last between 1 and 4 weeks in the refrigerator. Their higher moisture content means they often have a shorter shelf life.

Hard vegan cheeses, on the other hand, like cheddar or gouda, can last much longer, generally up to 3 to 4 weeks, and even several months if stored properly. The aging process and lower moisture content of hard cheeses contribute to their extended shelf life.

It is worth noting that the shelf life of vegan cheese also depends on the brand and specific ingredients used. For example, supermarket vegan cheeses made with starches and coconut oil can be left out for longer periods without spoiling due to their oil content, whereas artisanal vegan cheeses made from wholefood ingredients are more prone to drying out, moulding, or sweating when removed from the fridge.

To extend the shelf life of any vegan cheese, it is important to store it properly. This means keeping it in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator, maintaining an optimal temperature between 2 and 5 degrees Celsius. With proper storage, some vegan cheeses can even be frozen to extend their shelf life indefinitely, although this may affect their texture and flavour.

Packaging

Some vegan cheeses come packaged in paper or wax wrappers, which are not airtight. This means that ambient air can come into contact with the cheese, leading to faster quality degradation and a higher chance of spoilage. As a result, these cheeses may only last a couple of weeks before their best-before date, even when stored in the fridge.

On the other hand, vegan cheeses packaged in airtight and sealed wrappers tend to have a much longer shelf life. These cheeses can potentially last for several months, even after opening, as long as they are rewrapped properly.

To maximise the shelf life of vegan cheese, it is recommended to opt for brands that offer airtight, sealed packaging. This helps prevent air and moisture from causing deterioration. Additionally, storing the cheese in the refrigerator, at a temperature between 2°C and 4°C, can further extend its freshness.

When storing vegan cheese, it is also important to use airtight containers or resealable bags. This helps to maintain freshness and prevent premature spoilage by minimising air exposure and protecting the cheese from absorbing other odours in the fridge.

If you plan to freeze your vegan cheese to extend its shelf life, it is crucial to use airtight containers or sealed bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.

Freezing

Before freezing your vegan cheese, it is recommended to grate or shred it, rather than freezing the entire block. This will make it easier to use once defrosted. Portion the cheese into airtight containers or sealed bags, ensuring that they are airtight. Don't forget to label the containers with the date.

When it comes to defrosting, it's important to plan ahead. You can defrost the cheese in the fridge, on the counter, or in the microwave, depending on how much time you have. The microwave is the fastest option—place the cheese on a microwavable plate and use a low setting for around 40 seconds.

Some types of vegan cheese freeze better than others. Hard cheeses, such as cheddar and halloumi, tend to freeze well. On the other hand, freezing soft cheese or cream cheese is not recommended as it can negatively impact their texture.

Overall, freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of your vegan cheese, especially if you have a large quantity that you won't be able to consume within its recommended period. Just remember to prepare ahead when it comes to defrosting, and be mindful of the potential impact on the texture and flavour of the cheese.

Signs of spoilage

When it comes to vegan cheese, it's important to be vigilant about signs of spoilage to ensure food safety. Regularly checking for spoilage is crucial, especially for opened packages. Here are some indicators that your vegan cheese has gone bad:

Mould and spoilage

Unlike some traditional dairy cheeses, where a small amount of mould can be safely cut off, it is generally unsafe to consume mouldy vegan cheese. The presence of mould on vegan cheese indicates a risk of harmful microorganisms, so it's best to discard it entirely.

Texture and colour changes

Pay attention to any alterations in texture or colour. If the cheese becomes slimy or excessively soft, or shows signs of discolouration, it's a signal that it may have spoiled and should be discarded.

Unusual odour

An off-putting or foul smell is an indicator of spoilage. If the cheese emits any unusual or unpleasant odours, it's best to err on the side of caution and not consume it. Trust your senses and judgement when assessing the cheese.

Expiration date

Be mindful of the cheese's expiration dates. "Use by" dates indicate a safety threshold, whereas "best before" dates suggest optimal quality. Consuming the cheese within these time frames is important to ensure its safety and quality. Even if the cheese looks and smells fine, it's generally not recommended to consume it past its "use by" date.

Consumption post-expiration

While some vegan cheeses may remain edible past their expiration dates, always exercise caution. Inspect the cheese for any spoilage signs and use your best judgement. If in doubt, it's safer to discard the cheese.

Storage after opening

Once opened, most vegan cheeses are best consumed within a week to ten days for optimal freshness and to avoid spoilage. Properly storing the cheese in airtight containers or resealable bags can help extend its shelf life.

Frequently asked questions