Maximizing Mozzarella: Deli Cheese Storage And Lifespan

Mozzarella cheese is a versatile and tasty ingredient, but it's important to know how long it lasts to avoid food waste and health risks. The shelf life of mozzarella cheese depends on several factors, including the type of mozzarella, packaging, and storage conditions. Fresh, high-moisture mozzarella typically lasts 3-6 months unopened and 1-2 weeks after opening when stored in a refrigerator. On the other hand, low-moisture, sliced mozzarella from the deli can last 6-8 months unopened and 2-3 weeks after opening when refrigerated.

How long does sliced mozzarella deli cheese last in the fridge?

The shelf life of sliced mozzarella deli cheese depends on several factors, including the type of mozzarella, storage conditions, and packaging.

Fresh, high-moisture mozzarella has a shorter shelf life than low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella. Properly stored in its original packaging in the refrigerator, unopened sliced mozzarella deli cheese can last for 6-8 months, while opened sliced mozzarella deli cheese can last for 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

To maximize the shelf life of sliced mozzarella deli cheese, it is recommended to keep it refrigerated at all times and unopened until ready to use. The cheese should be stored in its original deli packaging in the refrigerator, ideally in the cheese or dairy compartment, to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level.

After opening, follow best practices for storage by transferring the cheese to an airtight container or covering it with plastic wrap. For optimal freshness, consume the cheese within 5 to 7 days.

To further extend the shelf life, freezing is an option. However, freezing may alter the texture and flavour of the cheese. When freezing, wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, sliced mozzarella deli cheese will maintain its best quality for about 8 months in the freezer but will remain safe beyond that time.

How to store mozzarella cheese

Mozzarella cheese is a staple in most Italian dishes, like pasta, pizza, and salad. If you're wondering how to store your leftover mozzarella, here are some tips to keep it fresh and tasty:

Storing Fresh Mozzarella

• Keep fresh mozzarella in its container of liquid if it has one. If it came in an airtight container with liquid (whey) at the bottom, ensure you keep the mozzarella in this liquid to maintain moisture. You can top up the liquid with water if it gets low.
• If your mozzarella was vacuum-packed, transfer it to a bowl of cold water. Change the water daily to mimic the whey and prevent the cheese from drying out.
• Place fresh mozzarella on the middle shelf of your fridge. Consume it as soon as possible for the best taste and freshness. Fresh mozzarella typically lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.
• If your mozzarella is unopened, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
• For optimal flavour, remove the mozzarella from the fridge about an hour before serving to bring it to room temperature.

Storing Loaf and Shredded Mozzarella

• Wrap your loaf mozzarella in plastic wrap after opening. This will prevent it from coming into contact with air and stop it from hardening.
• For wedges and rounds, use cheese, parchment, or wax paper to wrap them like presents, then store them in a plastic bag.
• Store your cheese in the warmest spot in your fridge, such as a large Tupperware or bin to keep all your cheeses together. Always label and date the packages.
• Seal shredded mozzarella in its original packaging or an airtight bag or container if it didn't come in resealable packaging.
• Keep shredded mozzarella in the crisper drawer of your fridge to maintain optimal humidity and prevent drying out.
• Eat loaf and shredded mozzarella within 21-28 days of opening for the best quality.
• Unopened packages of mozzarella can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge for a day before use.
• Avoid freezing opened mozzarella, as it can alter the taste and texture.

How to tell if mozzarella cheese has gone bad

Mozzarella cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient, but it's important to know how to store it properly and check for any signs of spoilage to avoid foodborne illnesses. Here are some detailed instructions on how to tell if your mozzarella cheese has gone bad:

Check the Expiry Date

The "best by" or "use by" date on the packaging is a guideline for freshness. Even if the date hasn't passed, always check the cheese for any signs of spoilage.

Inspect the Packaging

Look for any signs of damage or bloating in the packaging, which could indicate that your cheese has gone bad.

Smell the Cheese

Fresh mozzarella should have a mild, milky aroma. If it smells sour, rancid, or sweaty, it's a sign that your cheese has gone bad.

Observe the Texture

Mozzarella should be soft and slightly springy. If it feels slimy, sticky, or overly hard, it's likely that your cheese has spoiled.

Look for Mold Growth

If there is any visible mold on the mozzarella cheese, it should be discarded. This includes the presence of blue, green, or black mold.

Discoloration

Keep an eye out for any yellowing or dark spots on the cheese, as this could be a sign that it has spoiled.

Texture Changes

In addition to changes in texture mentioned earlier, also watch out for excessive hardness or brittleness, which could indicate that your mozzarella has gone bad.

By following these instructions and staying vigilant, you can ensure that your mozzarella cheese is safe to consume and maintain its quality and taste.

How to freeze mozzarella cheese

Mozzarella cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life. However, it is important to note that freezing cheese can affect its texture and taste. Frozen mozzarella may become crumbly and lose some of its flavour. Therefore, it is best suited for cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups, casseroles, and grilled cheese.

Step 1: Prepare the cheese

If you have purchased the cheese in its original packaging and it is unopened, you can leave it as is. However, if you want to slice or shred the cheese, it is recommended to do so before freezing. Slicing or shredding the cheese will make it easier to use in recipes and prevent it from becoming crumbly after freezing.

For block cheese, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between each slice to prevent them from freezing together.

For shredded cheese, you can freeze it in its original package if it is unopened. If you have shredded the cheese yourself, place it in a resealable plastic bag.

Step 2: Label the cheese

Label the cheese with the type of cheese and a "use by" date. The "use by" date should be approximately 3 months from the freezing date.

Step 3: Remove air from the bag

Partially seal the bag and use a straw to suck out as much air as possible before fully sealing the bag. Removing the air will help to prevent freezer burn and extend the shelf life of the cheese.

Step 4: Freeze the cheese

Place the bag of cheese flat in the freezer and allow it to freeze for at least 8 hours or until solid. Once the cheese is frozen, you can reorganise your freezer as needed.

Step 5: Defrosting and storage

To defrost mozzarella cheese, place it in the refrigerator for approximately 12 hours until it is soft. It is important to note that you should not refreeze cheese after it has been thawed. Use the thawed cheese within 3 to 4 days.

Shredded mozzarella cheese does not need to be thawed if it will be used in a cooked recipe. It can be placed directly onto a pizza, grilled cheese sandwich, or any other dish that requires melting.

Tips for freezing fresh mozzarella:

Fresh mozzarella has a high water content, which can affect its texture during freezing. To prevent this, remove the cheese from its original packaging and slice it into individual portions. Use a paper towel to remove any excess moisture before wrapping the slices tightly in plastic wrap or cling film.

Place the wrapped slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for at least 8 hours. Then, transfer the frozen slices to a resealable freezer bag and store them in the freezer.

By freezing mozzarella cheese, you can extend its shelf life and reduce food waste. Remember to follow the proper steps for preparing and storing the cheese to maintain its quality and freshness.

How long does mozzarella cheese last after being frozen and thawed?

The shelf life of mozzarella cheese is influenced by several factors, including the type of mozzarella, storage conditions, and handling. Fresh, shredded, and block mozzarella have different shelf lives, with fresh mozzarella typically lasting for 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

To extend the shelf life of mozzarella cheese, freezing is an option. Frozen mozzarella cheese can last for over six months in the freezer, but experts recommend using it within the first three months to maintain its texture and flavor. When freezing, it is important to wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent air exposure.

Once defrosted, fresh mozzarella cheese that has been thawed in the refrigerator can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days. However, if the cheese was thawed in the microwave or in cold water, it should be used immediately. Frozen cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavor, so it is best suited for cooked dishes such as sauces, soups, and casseroles.

Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the freshness and quality of mozzarella cheese. When storing in the refrigerator, keep the temperature between 34°F and 40°F. For unopened mozzarella, keep it in its original packaging, while for opened cheese, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.

Frequently asked questions