Blue Cheese: How Long Does It Last Post-Expiry?

Blue cheese is a unique cheese with a strong scent and a sharp, pungent aroma. It is made from either cow's or goat's milk and ripened with moulds called Penicillium. While blue cheese is safe to eat, it can go bad and become unsafe to consume. So, how long does it last in the bottle after the expiration date?

Blue cheese can be stored in the freezer for up to six months

Blue cheese is a distinct type of cheese known for its pungent aroma and striking blue veins. It has a bold and tangy flavor that can vary from sharp and salty to slightly sweet with a pungent kick. The presence of blue mold, which is integral to the cheese's structure, gives it a depth of flavor often described as earthy or musty.

To freeze blue cheese, it is important to follow certain steps to ensure optimal quality. First, cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound each. Then, wrap the portions tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil, parchment paper, or plastic freezer wrap, or place them inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to label the bag with the freezing date. Finally, store the wrapped cheese in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

When thawing blue cheese, it is best to do so gradually in the refrigerator. It can take 7-8 hours per pound of cheese to thaw completely. Once thawed, blue cheese should be used within 3-4 days. It is important to note that frozen and thawed cheese should not be refrozen.

In summary, blue cheese can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, but it may experience changes in texture and quality. Proper wrapping and storage are essential to maintaining the best possible quality. Thawing should be done gradually, and the cheese is then suitable for use in cooked dishes.

Unopened blue cheese can be stored in the fridge for one to six months

Blue cheese is a distinct type of cheese known for its pungent aroma and striking blue veins. It has a bold and tangy flavour that can vary from sharp and salty to slightly sweet with a pungent kick. The edible blue-green or blue-grey mould in blue cheese is called Penicillium roquefortii or Penicillium glaucum. It is added during the cheese-making process and is safe to eat. However, blue cheese can go bad and become unsafe to consume.

Once a package of blue cheese is opened, it should be consumed within one to four weeks. The presence of air and moisture can encourage the growth of both the desired moulds specific to blue cheese and potentially harmful bacteria. To maintain freshness, it should be wrapped in parchment or wax paper and then encased in plastic wrap or a plastic bag before storing in the refrigerator. The key to extending the life of blue cheese lies in proper storage.

Opened blue cheese should be consumed within one to four weeks

Once opened, blue cheese should be consumed within one to four weeks. This timeframe can vary depending on the type of blue cheese and how it is stored. For example, crumbled blue cheese, which has a larger surface area exposed to air and bacteria, typically lasts only one to two weeks in the refrigerator. On the other hand, an unopened whole wheel of blue cheese can last for several weeks beyond its "sell by" date if stored properly—often up to three to four weeks.

To extend the lifespan of opened blue cheese, it is crucial to store it properly. Blue cheese should be kept in the refrigerator at a temperature between 35°F and 40°F (2°C to 7°C or 46°F – 55°F to be more precise), with moderate humidity. The refrigerator's crisper drawer is ideal as it offers a more consistent environment and helps maintain an appropriate level of moisture.

When storing blue cheese, it is essential to wrap it in a way that allows it to breathe while also retaining moisture. The recommended method is to first wrap the cheese in parchment or wax paper and then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. This combination protects the cheese from drying out while preventing the absorption of other flavours or odors from nearby food items.

It is important to regularly inspect blue cheese for any signs of spoilage. This includes an off smell, different from the naturally strong, tangy odour of blue cheese, as well as any visible signs of pink, green, or black mould that differ from the characteristic blue or green veins. Additionally, a significant change in texture, such as becoming excessively hard or slimy, indicates that the cheese should be discarded.

By following these storage guidelines and regularly checking for spoilage, consumers can safely enjoy their blue cheese within the recommended timeframe of one to four weeks after opening.

Signs of spoilage include a strong ammonia-like smell, discolouration, and a slimy texture

It's crucial to recognise when blue cheese has spoiled, as eating it can cause foodborne illness. One of the most telling signs of spoilage is a strong ammonia-like smell. This occurs when undesirable bacteria cause a natural breakdown of proteins in the cheese. While blue cheese is known for its pungent aroma, an overpowering ammonia scent indicates that it has gone bad and should be discarded.

Another sign of spoilage is discolouration. The creamy part of the cheese is typically white, beige, or yellow. If you notice any hints of pink, green, brown, yellow, or red spots, your cheese has likely been contaminated by harmful bacteria and should be thrown out.

A change in texture is also an indicator of spoilage. Blue cheese naturally has a firm, crumbly texture. If it becomes slimy, excessively soft, or significantly harder than its original state, it has likely spoiled.

To prevent spoilage, proper storage is essential. Blue cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in parchment or wax paper, and then placed in a plastic bag to retain moisture. It should be consumed within one to four weeks of opening, depending on the type of cheese and storage conditions.

Proper storage is key to extending the life of blue cheese

Temperature and Refrigeration

It is important to always keep blue cheese refrigerated. The ideal temperature range for storing blue cheese is between 35°F and 45°F (2°C to 7°C). This mimics the natural conditions of cheese caves, helping to maintain its texture and flavour. The refrigerator's crisper drawer is a good option as it offers a more consistent and stable temperature. Avoid keeping blue cheese at room temperature for extended periods, as it can deteriorate rapidly and become more susceptible to spoilage and bacterial growth.

Packaging and Wrapping

To maintain freshness, wrap blue cheese in parchment or wax paper, then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container before storing it in the refrigerator. This prevents moisture loss while allowing the cheese to breathe, which is crucial in preventing ammonia smells and off-flavours. For long-term storage, encase the cheese in heavy-duty aluminium foil before placing it in an airtight container to protect it from freezer burn if placed in the freezer.

Shelf Life

The shelf life of blue cheese depends on its form and packaging. Unopened blue cheese can last for 1 to 6 months when refrigerated properly. Once opened, it is best to consume it within 1 to 2 weeks. Crumbled blue cheese typically has a shorter lifespan, lasting around 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator due to its larger surface area exposed to air and bacteria.

Signs of Spoilage

It is important to recognise when blue cheese has gone bad to avoid foodborne illness. Signs of spoilage include an off smell, different from the naturally strong, tangy odour of blue cheese. Visible signs of pink, green, or black mould that differs from the characteristic blue or green veins are also an indication of spoilage. A significant change in texture, such as becoming excessively hard, slimy, or soft, is another sign that the cheese has gone bad. If any of these signs are present, discard the cheese.

Frequently asked questions