Cheese Storage: How Long Does Wrapped Cheese Last?

The shelf life of wrapped cheese in the fridge depends on the type of cheese and its moisture content. Soft cheeses like mozzarella, feta, and cream cheese have a shorter shelf life of about one to two weeks in the fridge. On the other hand, hard cheeses like cheddar and parmesan can last for several months or even up to a year when stored in the fridge. The storage method also matters; cheese should be wrapped in a breathable material like wax paper or cheese paper and stored in an airtight container to prolong its freshness.

Hard cheeses, such as Cheddar, can be kept in the fridge for up to a year

Hard cheeses are also aged for longer periods of time, which contributes to their longer-lasting freshness. The aging process removes moisture from the cheese, creating a hard texture that is ideal for crumbling or grating. This low moisture content also means that hard cheeses can be frozen with minimal changes to their taste or texture.

To ensure hard cheeses last as long as possible, it is important to store them correctly. This involves removing the cheese from its plastic packaging and wrapping it loosely in a breathable material, such as wax paper or cheese paper, before placing it in an airtight container.

Even with proper storage, hard cheeses will eventually spoil. Signs of spoilage include an unpleasant smell, a slimy surface, dark spots, dryness, cracks, and mould. If any of these signs are present, the cheese should be discarded.

Soft cheeses, like Brie, are only good for a few weeks in the fridge

To make the most of the product, proper storage is key. Soft-ripened cheese, like Brie, has a delicate rind, so it needs more care than other soft cheeses. Wrapping it in cheese paper is best, but you can also use parchment paper and keep it in an airtight container.

A wedge of cheese starts to decline the moment it's cut off the wheel, and no cheese will get better in the fridge. So, try to only buy cheese for the week ahead.

Once opened, soft cheeses like Brie, goat's cheese, mozzarella and feta are more perishable and typically last for a week to a few weeks in the refrigerator. However, it's important to watch for any signs of spoilage before eating soft cheeses. If you see mould, smell something off, or feel a change in texture, such as excessive softness or graininess, it's best to discard the cheese.

To keep soft cheeses fresh, wrap them tightly in wax paper or cheese paper and store them in the fridge at a steady temperature of between 35°F and 45°F (1.7°C and 7.2°C). This will help extend their shelf life.

Semi-hard cheeses, such as Swiss cheese, can be stored for several months

Semi-hard cheeses, such as Swiss cheese, can be stored in the refrigerator for several months past their 'best by' date. This is because they have a lower moisture content, which inhibits bacterial growth and therefore extends their shelf life.

To ensure your semi-hard cheese lasts as long as possible, it is important to store it correctly. Firstly, remove the cheese from its plastic packaging. Then, wrap it loosely in a pliable yet breathable material, such as wax paper or cheese paper. Finally, place the cheese in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

It is worth noting that once the cheese has been opened, its shelf life will decline. Opened semi-hard cheeses will typically last for several weeks in the refrigerator.

When it comes to spotting signs of spoilage, look out for an unpleasant smell, a slimy surface, dark spots, dryness, cracks, or mould. If you spot any of these signs of spoilage, discard the cheese.

Fresh cheeses, like ricotta, are highly perishable and last a few weeks at most

Fresh cheeses, like ricotta, cream cheese, and cottage cheese, are highly perishable and typically last only a few weeks in the refrigerator. This is because they have a high moisture content, which provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Therefore, they have a shorter shelf life than harder cheeses.

To maximise the shelf life of fresh cheeses, they should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally in their original packaging. If the original packaging is not available, fresh cheeses can be wrapped in wax, parchment, or cheese paper and stored in the middle or top shelf of the fridge, or in a drawer. Fresh cheeses should be kept above raw meats, poultry, and fish to avoid contamination.

It is important to note that the fridge temperature should be kept below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacteria growth. At higher temperatures, the rate of bacteria growth increases significantly, leading to a higher risk of food spoilage.

Additionally, fresh cheeses should not be wrapped in tight, non-porous materials like plastic wrap. Instead, porous materials such as cheese or wax paper are recommended to prevent the cheese from drying out and hardening.

Proper storage is crucial for fresh cheeses as they have a short shelf life. For cheese sold in brine, such as feta or fresh mozzarella, it is essential to keep it in the liquid and ensure the container's lid is secure. For blue cheese, wrapping it in foil is recommended.

Freezing cheese: some types of cheese can be frozen, but it may affect their taste and texture

Freezing cheese is a great way to extend its shelf life and reduce waste. However, it's important to note that not all cheeses freeze well, and the freezing process may affect the taste and texture of the cheese.

Cheese is a complex mixture of proteins, fats, water, minerals and other compounds. When cheese is frozen, small ice crystals form on the inside, disrupting its internal structure. This can cause the cheese to become drier, crumbly and less creamy when thawed. The melting properties of the cheese may also be affected, making it less suitable for dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches.

Hard and semi-hard cheeses, such as cheddar, Swiss, brick cheese and blue cheese, can be frozen but will become crumbly and mealy. They will also be harder to slice. Mozzarella and pizza cheese can also be frozen, but their texture and melting abilities may suffer. Some semi-soft cheeses like Stilton or soft goat cheese are well-suited to freezing, too.

On the other hand, soft and creamy cheeses like Brie, Camembert and ricotta have a high moisture content and delicate textures, making them less suitable for freezing. Freezing can cause them to become grainy and watery upon thawing, and they may lose their creaminess. Fresh cheeses like cottage cheese, ricotta and quark are also not ideal for freezing due to their high moisture content.

Processed cheeses, such as cheese slices, and soft cheeses like ricotta, cottage cheese and cream cheese, do not freeze well.

If you do decide to freeze your cheese, it's important to prepare it properly for storage. Portion the cheese into quantities that you're likely to use at one time, as freezing affects the texture and quality of the cheese. Wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil, or place it in an airtight, moisture-proof container. You can also use a vacuum sealer to remove air from the packaging and reduce the risk of freezer burn. Freeze the cheese as quickly as possible to prevent the formation of large ice crystals, which can further affect the texture.

While freezing cheese can be a convenient way to extend its shelf life, it's important to note that the taste and texture may be affected. Frozen cheese is best suited for cooked dishes where changes in texture are less noticeable, such as sauces, pizzas, grilled cheese sandwiches and casseroles.

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