Cheese Storage: How Long Is Too Long?

Cheese is a beloved staple in many households and a popular guest at parties. But how long can it be kept before it goes bad? The shelf life of cheese depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, how it is stored, and the environment. Soft cheeses, such as Brie and Camembert, have a shorter shelf life than hard cheeses like Cheddar and Parmesan. Proper storage is crucial, as it can dramatically extend the refrigerator life of cheese. In general, soft cheeses last about a week in the fridge, while hard cheeses can last up to several months, or even a year, when stored properly. Additionally, it is important to note that cheese can be left at room temperature for up to two hours, but the risk of bacterial growth increases the longer it is left out.

How long can cheese be left out of the fridge?

Leaving cheese out of the fridge can be risky business, with the US Department of Health recommending that perishable food is not left out of the fridge for more than two hours. However, the length of time cheese can be left out depends on the type of cheese and other factors.

Soft Cheeses

Soft cheeses, such as cottage cheese, cream cheese, brie, mozzarella, and ricotta, have a high moisture content, making them more perishable than harder cheeses. The higher moisture content creates more opportunities for bacteria to grow, so soft cheeses should be discarded after two hours of sitting out at room temperature.

Hard Cheeses

Hard cheeses, such as cheddar, parmesan, and gouda, have a lower moisture content, which means they are less prone to spoilage from bacteria. Harder cheeses can be left out of the fridge for up to four hours. However, it is important to note that leaving cheese out for longer than four hours may change its quality, flavour, and texture.

Other Factors

Other factors that can affect how long cheese can be left out of the fridge include the freshness of the cheese, how it is made, and the temperature of the room. For example, cheese will dry out more quickly in a warmer room. Additionally, leftover unrefrigerated cheese should be handled differently than fresh cheese. If you have leftover cheese that has been sitting out for two hours, soft, fresh cheeses should be discarded, while hard cheeses can be wrapped and refrigerated for later use.

How to store cheese in the fridge

Storing cheese in the fridge is a great way to extend its shelf life, but it needs to be done properly. Cheese is a living, breathing food, so it needs oxygen and humidity to stay fresh and tasty.

Firstly, it's best to avoid storing cheese in plastic wrap. Plastic suffocates the cheese, cutting off its air supply, and traps in moisture, which can cause the cheese to become slimy and mouldy. Plastic wrap also lets in a lot of light, which can oxidise aged cheeses, destroying their flavour and texture.

Instead, wrap cheese in wax, parchment, or specialty cheese paper, which provides airflow and the right amount of humidity. Then, place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container or a plastic zip bag, leaving some air in the bag. Make sure to store cheese in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the vegetable crisper, where the temperature is cold and stable.

For soft cheeses like feta or mozzarella, which are sold in brine, keep them in their original liquid and ensure the container's lid is secure. For blue cheese, wrap it in foil. Soft-ripened cheese, like brie, has a delicate rind, so it's best to wrap it in cheese paper and keep it in an airtight container.

Hard cheeses, such as aged cheddar, aged gouda, and Parmigiano Reggiano, can be stored in the fridge for up to four weeks. Unopened packages can last for up to six months. Semi-hard cheeses, such as Swiss cheese, will last for several weeks in the fridge. Soft cheeses like brie, goat's cheese, and feta are more perishable and will typically last for about a week in the refrigerator. Fresh cheeses like ricotta and cottage cheese should be consumed within a week or two of opening.

To determine if cheese has spoiled, look for an off odour, changes in texture, or taste. If the cheese has become slimy, wet, or soft, discard it immediately. If there is mould on the cheese, you may be able to remove it and eat the rest of the cheese, depending on the type of cheese. For soft cheeses, discard the entire product if there is mould. For semi-soft to hard cheeses, cut at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the mould and use the rest of the cheese.

How to identify if cheese has gone bad

Cheese is a dairy product with a long shelf life, but it can still go bad. Here are some ways to identify if your cheese has spoiled:

Appearance

If your cheese has changed colour, such as yellowing or browning, this can be a sign of spoilage. Additionally, if the cheese has a slimy texture or is overly dry and crumbly, it may be past its prime. Surface mould is also a common indicator of spoilage. For hard cheeses, it is recommended to cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the mouldy spots and consume the rest. However, if the entire piece is covered in thick mould, it may not be worth saving. For soft cheeses, any sign of mould means it should be discarded.

Smell

A spoiled cheese may emit an “off” smell, reminiscent of spoiled milk, ammonia, or even a refrigerator or freezer. A strong ammonia smell, similar to cat urine, is a sign of spoilage in pungent cheeses like blue cheese or Camembert. If a mild cheese, like Monterey Jack, smells strong like blue cheese, it is an indication to throw it away. It is advisable to familiarise yourself with the smell of your cheese when you first purchase it, so you can notice any deviations.

Taste

When in doubt, tasting a small piece of cheese can be a definitive way to determine if it has gone bad. Spoiled cheese will often taste sour or bitter, with an unpleasant aftertaste. However, it is important to note that consuming spoiled cheese may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, so taste with caution.

How long does hard cheese last?

Hard cheeses, such as Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda, have a lower moisture content, which helps extend their shelf life.

Hard cheeses that haven't been opened can last for several months and even up to a year when stored in the fridge. Unopened blocks of hard cheese can also be stored for six months without refrigeration, though they will last much longer if they are refrigerated. Once opened, hard cheese is safe to eat for about four weeks in the refrigerator.

To store hard cheese in the refrigerator, first remove the cheese from its plastic packaging. Then, wrap it loosely in cheese paper or wax paper, and put the cheese in a container with an airtight lid.

It's important to note that hard cheeses can develop mould, which can be cut off and the rest of the cheese consumed. However, if you have a compromised immune system, are pregnant, elderly, or have certain health conditions, it is generally advisable to avoid consuming mouldy cheese.

How long does soft cheese last?

Soft cheeses typically last about one to two weeks in the fridge after opening. However, their quality and taste will be at their best before that time is up. This is because soft cheeses have a high moisture content, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive and cause them to spoil more quickly than hard cheeses.

To extend the shelf life of soft cheeses, proper storage is key. For cheese sold in brine, like feta or fresh mozzarella, keep it in the liquid and ensure the container's lid is secure. Blue cheese can be wrapped in foil, and soft-ripened cheese like Brie should be wrapped in cheese paper, parchment paper, or kept in an airtight container.

It is important to note that soft cheese does not last as long as hard cheese, and the shelf life of soft cheese is influenced by factors such as the type of cheese, processing method, packaging date, exposure to heat, and storage method.

To determine if soft cheese has gone bad, you can use your senses. The most common trait of spoilage in soft cheese is the growth of blue or green mold. Once mold is visible, the entire product should be discarded, unlike hard cheeses where the moldy part can be cut off. In addition to mold, some semi-soft cheeses will darken or harden around their edges.

Frequently asked questions