Cheese Shreds: Best Before Dates And Beyond

How long is shredded cheese safe to eat after its best-before date? This is a tricky question, as it depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, how it's been stored, and whether it shows any signs of spoilage. Hard cheeses like parmesan and cheddar tend to have a longer shelf life than soft cheeses like mozzarella and brie due to their lower moisture content. Shredded cheese, in particular, has an increased surface area, making it more susceptible to spoilage and mould growth. While hard cheeses may still be safe to consume even with a bit of mould, it's crucial to approach shredded cheese with caution. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mould, an off smell, or a change in texture, it's best to discard the cheese. To extend the shelf life of shredded cheese, proper storage techniques are critical, such as refrigeration and freezing.

Opened shredded cheese should be consumed within 3-5 days

It's important to note that the shelf life of shredded cheese is shorter than that of block cheese. Block cheese typically lasts for about 3-4 weeks in the fridge after opening, whereas shredded cheese should be consumed within 2 weeks if stored in the fridge.

To extend the shelf life of shredded cheese, you can store it in an airtight container or resealable bag to prevent air or moisture from spoiling the cheese. If you need to keep it for longer than 5 days, it's better to freeze it.

When it comes to determining if your shredded cheese is still safe to eat, use your senses of sight, smell, and taste. If you notice any mold, a strong odour, or a sour taste, it's best to discard the cheese.

Additionally, always follow proper food safety guidelines and use your best judgement before consuming any food product, including shredded cheese, past its best-by date.

Unopened shredded cheese can last 6-8 months in the fridge

However, it is important to note that the shelf life of unopened shredded cheese may vary depending on the specific type of cheese. For example, the shelf life of shredded mozzarella cheese may differ from that of shredded cheddar cheese. Additionally, the storage conditions can also impact the shelf life of unopened shredded cheese.

To ensure the longest possible shelf life, it is recommended to store unopened shredded cheese in the fridge at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). At higher temperatures, the rate of bacterial growth increases, which can lead to faster spoilage.

Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the "best-by" date on the shredded cheese package is not an expiration date but rather an estimate of when the cheese will be of optimal quality in terms of flavour and texture. The cheese may still be safe to consume past this date as long as it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage, such as mould, an off odour, or discolouration.

In summary, unopened shredded cheese can last for 6-8 months in the fridge, depending on the specific type of cheese and storage conditions. To maximise its shelf life, it is recommended to store it in the fridge at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). Even past the "best-by" date, the cheese may still be safe to consume if properly stored and free from any signs of spoilage.

Signs of spoilage: mould, bad smell, texture change, discolouration

It's important to note that shredded cheese is more susceptible to spoilage than cheese blocks. This is because shredded cheese has a larger surface area, which means there is more room for bacteria to grow. Therefore, it's best to consume shredded cheese within 3 to 5 days of opening the package.

Signs of Spoilage

Mould

Unlike cheese blocks, shredded cheese should be discarded if there are any signs of mould. This is because it is difficult to salvage small shreds of cheese with mould growing on them. If you notice mould on shredded cheese, throw out the entire package.

Bad Smell

If your shredded cheese smells like spoiled milk, ammonia, a refrigerator, freezer, or anything other than cheese, it has likely gone bad. A strong smell, especially in mild cheeses, is a sign of spoilage.

Texture Change

Although texture change is not common in shredded cheese, if your shredded cheese feels wet or spongy, it has probably spoiled.

Discolouration

If your shredded cheese has changed colour, such as fading or darkening, it may be a sign of spoilage.

Proper storage: airtight containers, resealable bags, freezing

Proper storage is key to extending the shelf life of shredded cheese. When stored properly, shredded cheese can last for a week or two in the fridge after opening and up to three months in the freezer.

Airtight Containers

Airtight containers are a great option for storing shredded cheese. While some sources suggest avoiding airtight plastic containers as they can trap moisture, leading to faster moulding, others recommend this method. If using a plastic airtight container, it is best to also wrap the cheese in paper first. Baking paper or parchment paper secured with a rubber band and placed in an airtight container is ideal.

Resealable Bags

Resealable bags are a convenient way to store shredded cheese. Keep shredded cheese in the bag it came in or transfer it to a resealable bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. This method will keep shredded cheese fresh in the fridge for a week or two and can also be used for freezing.

Freezing

Freezing is an excellent way to extend the shelf life of shredded cheese. It can be frozen in its original packaging or a resealable bag, or grated and frozen in freezer bags for easy distribution and melting. When freezing in bags, ensure a relatively airtight seal to prevent freezer burn. Frozen shredded cheese will last for up to three months. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight or use straight from frozen for melting.

Soft cheeses last 1-2 weeks, hard cheeses 3-4 weeks in the fridge

Soft cheeses, such as ricotta, feta, mozzarella, cheddar, and mozzarella, are more perishable than hard cheeses because they have a higher moisture content, which is needed for bacterial growth. Therefore, soft cheeses will last for 1-2 weeks in the fridge.

Hard cheeses, on the other hand, have a lower moisture content, making it more difficult for bacteria to flourish. Examples of hard cheeses include aged cheddar, aged gouda, and parmesan. An unopened package of hard cheese can last for several months, and even up to a year, when stored in the fridge. Once opened, hard cheeses will typically last for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator.

It's important to note that the shelf life of cheese depends on various factors, such as the quality of the cheese, how it is stored, and the type of cheese. Additionally, always inspect your cheese before consuming it, regardless of the best-by date, as cheese can go bad before this date due to quality control issues or improper storage.

Frequently asked questions