Swiss Cheese Cold Cuts: How Long Do They Last?

Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient, adding a creamy texture and a nutty flavor to sandwiches, paninis, omelets, casseroles, and burgers. When storing Swiss cheese, it is important to maintain a temperature between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C) to slow down bacterial growth and prevent spoilage. Properly stored, an unopened chunk of Swiss cheese will last for about six months in the refrigerator, while sliced Swiss cheese from the deli can last for six to eight months. To maximize shelf life, it is recommended to wrap Swiss cheese in parchment or wax paper, followed by a layer of plastic wrap or an airtight container to maintain humidity and prevent moisture buildup.

Swiss cheese storage

Swiss cheese is a versatile and tasty ingredient, but it requires proper storage to maintain its freshness and flavour. Here are some tips to ensure your Swiss cheese stays in optimal condition:

Wrapping and Packaging

When storing Swiss cheese, it is best to avoid wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Swiss cheese is made from fresh milk and a specific blend of bacteria, and its composition can easily change based on temperature, air, and its ability to "breathe." Instead of plastic wrap, opt for parchment or wax paper, which allows the cheese to breathe while keeping it fresh. You can then loosely wrap it with plastic wrap on the outside for added protection. This method will keep the cheese fresh in the fridge for three to four weeks.

Refrigeration

It is crucial to keep Swiss cheese refrigerated at all times to maximise its shelf life. The ideal refrigerator temperature for cheese is between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C). This temperature range slows down bacterial growth and prevents the cheese from spoiling. Place the wrapped cheese in a plastic bag or airtight container to maintain freshness while keeping moisture out.

The cheese should be stored in the cheese drawer or on a stable, cool shelf in the refrigerator. Avoid placing it on the door, as temperatures can fluctuate, affecting the cheese's quality. Additionally, keep different types of cheese separately to avoid mixing flavours and potential cross-contamination.

Freezing

If you wish to extend the shelf life of Swiss cheese, freezing is an option. Wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, Swiss cheese will maintain its best quality for about six to eight months in the freezer.

Thawing and Usage

After freezing, Swiss cheese can be thawed in the refrigerator and kept for an additional three to four days before use. If you thaw the cheese in the microwave or cold water, it should be consumed immediately. It is important to note that frozen and thawed cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavour, making it more suitable for cooked dishes like sauces, soups, and casseroles.

Spoilage Indicators

To determine if your Swiss cheese has spoiled, look for certain signs. Fresh Swiss cheese should be firm and slightly springy. If it feels slimy, rock-hard, or crumbly, it has gone bad. Additionally, Swiss cheese should have a mild and nutty aroma. A strong, sour, or ammonia-like smell indicates spoilage. If you notice any mould, discard the cheese entirely, as it is not safe to consume.

By following these storage guidelines, you can maximise the freshness and flavour of your Swiss cheese, ensuring it remains a tasty addition to your meals and snacks.

How to serve Swiss cheese

Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some tips on how to serve Swiss cheese to maximize its flavour and prolong its freshness:

Storing Swiss Cheese

The way you store Swiss cheese can impact its flavour and freshness. Unlike plastic wrap, which can alter the composition and flavour of the cheese, the best way to store Swiss cheese is by wrapping it in parchment or wax paper. This allows the cheese to breathe and prevents it from drying out. To extend its shelf life, you can also wrap the cheese in plastic wrap after the initial wrapping in paper. Properly stored, Swiss cheese can last three to four weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze the cheese by following the same wrapping method and adding a layer of heavy-duty aluminium foil. Frozen Swiss cheese can last up to six months.

Serving Swiss Cheese

To enjoy Swiss cheese at its best, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. This can take up to an hour, but it's worth the wait to experience the distinct, delicate flavour and slight nuttiness of the cheese. Swiss cheese can be served in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, dips, and melted on top of dishes like casseroles and soups. It pairs well with meats such as roast beef, ham, and chicken, and can be used in recipes like chicken cordon bleu, Swiss burgers, and Swiss cheese dip.

Re-Storing Swiss Cheese

If you have leftover Swiss cheese, proper re-storing is essential to maintain its quality. Once the cheese has been cut, grated, or sliced, it can lose moisture and absorb flavours from other foods if not properly wrapped. Follow the same storage instructions as above, ensuring the cheese is wrapped first in parchment or wax paper and then in plastic wrap.

Freezing Swiss cheese

Swiss cheese can be frozen and still taste good. It is a semi-hard cheese, like cheddar, and so holds up better in the freezer than softer cheeses like Brie.

To freeze Swiss cheese, cut the cheese into portions no larger than 1/2 pound (or 1 pound) each. Wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. You can also use a vacuum sealer to remove air and prevent freezer burn. If you don't have a vacuum sealer, cover the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe, plastic zipper-top bag, squeezing out all the air. Ensure no moisture gets in, as this can cause ice crystals that affect the cheese.

Add a final layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil if you are freezing the cheese for a long time. Your cheese should last up to six months in the freezer using this method, although it can be kept frozen indefinitely. It is best to use the cheese within six to nine months, and it should be defrosted in the refrigerator. Once thawed, it should be used quickly.

Frozen Swiss cheese is typically better when melted or incorporated into dishes, as it may become crumbly and lose some of its flavor. It is ideal for cooked dishes such as sauces, soups, casseroles, chicken cordon bleu, or three-cheese penne pasta.

How to spot spoiled Swiss cheese

Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient, adding its distinctive flavour to sandwiches, casseroles, omelettes, and more. But how can you tell if your Swiss cheese has gone bad? Here are some tips on how to spot spoiled Swiss cheese:

Appearance

Swiss cheese should have a consistent pale yellow colour. If you notice any discolouration, such as darkening, or the presence of green, blue, or black spots, it is likely that your cheese has spoiled.

Texture

Fresh Swiss cheese has a firm, slightly springy texture. If your Swiss cheese feels slimy, rock-hard, or crumbly, it is best to discard it.

Smell

Swiss cheese should have a mild, nutty aroma. If your cheese has developed a strong, sour, or ammonia-like smell, it has likely gone bad.

Taste

If your Swiss cheese tastes bitter or otherwise "off", it is best to throw it out.

Mould

Swiss cheese should not have any mould on it. If you see any mould, it is important to discard the cheese. While some mouldy cheeses are safe to consume after cutting off the mouldy part, Swiss cheese is not one of them. Mould can penetrate deep into Swiss cheese, so cutting off the visible mould will not make it safe to eat.

Storage Tips

To prevent your Swiss cheese from spoiling, it is important to store it properly. Keep it refrigerated at a temperature between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C). Wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper, then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. This allows the cheese to breathe while keeping moisture out. Store it in the cheese drawer or on a stable, cool shelf in your fridge, avoiding the door, where temperatures can fluctuate.

How long does Swiss cheese last in the fridge?

Swiss cheese is a versatile and tasty ingredient that can be used in sandwiches, casseroles, omelettes, and more. But how long does Swiss cheese last in the fridge?

The shelf life of Swiss cheese in the fridge depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, packaging, temperature, and moisture levels.

Firstly, let's differentiate between unopened and opened Swiss cheese. Unopened Swiss cheese, either in chunk or block form, can be stored in its original packaging and will last for about 6 months in the refrigerator. On the other hand, opened Swiss cheese, or sliced Swiss cheese purchased from a deli, will have a shorter shelf life.

When it comes to storing Swiss cheese in the fridge, it's important to maintain a temperature between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C). This range slows down bacterial growth and keeps the cheese from spoiling. Additionally, the cheese should be wrapped properly. Instead of using plastic wrap, which can alter the composition and flavour of the cheese, it's recommended to use parchment or wax paper, followed by a layer of plastic wrap or an airtight container to keep moisture out.

With proper storage, sliced Swiss cheese can last for about 3 to 4 weeks in the fridge. However, it's important to regularly check the cheese for any signs of spoilage, such as mould, unusual texture, or an off smell. If you notice mould on hard Swiss cheese, cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the affected area. For soft Swiss cheese, or shredded/sliced cheese with mould, the entire package should be discarded.

To extend the shelf life of Swiss cheese, you can freeze it. When freezing, wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen Swiss cheese will maintain its best quality for about 6 to 8 months but can be safely stored indefinitely at a constant temperature of 0°F (-18°C).

Frequently asked questions