Vegan Cheese: How Long Does It Last In The Fridge?

How long you can keep vegan cheese in the refrigerator depends on several factors. These include the type of cheese, the ingredients used, and the packaging. For example, dry vegan cheeses like parmesan alternatives in jars or nutritional yeast can last for months on a shelf or the kitchen side without any issues. On the other hand, spreadable cream vegan cheeses require refrigeration to keep them from going off, and their quality may drop within a few days if they are not stored in an airtight container.

Vegan cheese left out of the fridge

Leaving vegan cheese out of the fridge can be a tricky situation, and the best course of action depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, the ingredients used, the ambient temperature, and the packaging. Here's what you need to know about vegan cheese left out of the fridge:

The general rule of thumb is that vegan cheese should not be left out of the fridge for more than a few hours. However, this duration can vary depending on the type of vegan cheese and other factors. For example, supermarket vegan cheeses made with starches and coconut oil, such as Violife, can be left out for longer periods due to their oil content, which helps preserve the cheese and prevents mould. On the other hand, artisanal vegan cheeses made with wholefood ingredients are more susceptible to drying out, moulding, or other forms of degradation if left out of the fridge for extended periods.

The Role of Ingredients and Temperature

The ingredients used in vegan cheese play a crucial role in determining its susceptibility to spoilage when left out of the fridge. Cheeses made with coconut oil and starch tend to be more resistant to contamination and can typically be left out for longer. Additionally, the ambient temperature outside the fridge is a factor. In warmer environments, vegan cheese is more likely to sweat or spoil, so it should be consumed or refrigerated within a shorter timeframe.

Packaging and Storage

The packaging of vegan cheese also affects its shelf life, both inside and outside the fridge. Vegan cheeses packaged in paper or non-airtight wrappers tend to have shorter shelf lives, even when stored in the fridge, as they are more susceptible to the effects of ambient air. On the other hand, vegan cheeses packaged in airtight, sealed wrappers can last much longer, even after opening, if they are properly rewrapped.

Freezing Vegan Cheese

If you're concerned about the shelf life of your vegan cheese, freezing is a viable option. Freezing can extend the shelf life of vegan cheese indefinitely, making it an excellent choice if you want to stock up on your favourite variety or if you can't finish the cheese before its best-before date. However, remember that frozen vegan cheese requires planning and preparation, as it needs to be defrosted before use.

Checking for Spoilage

When in doubt, always use your senses to check for spoilage before consuming vegan cheese that has been left out of the fridge. Look for any signs of degradation, mould, or drying out. Additionally, perform a smell and taste test – if the cheese smells and tastes fine, it's likely safe to consume. However, if you have any doubts or concerns, it's always better to err on the side of caution and discard the cheese.

In summary, while it's generally recommended to keep vegan cheese refrigerated, it can be left out of the fridge for a few hours without immediate spoilage, depending on the type of cheese and other factors. Always check the packaging for storage instructions and use your best judgement to ensure food safety.

How long does opened vegan cheese last in the fridge?

The length of time that opened vegan cheese lasts in the fridge depends on several factors, including the brand, ingredients, style of cheese, and packaging.

Some sources suggest that opened vegan cheese can last for months in the fridge, especially if it is stored at a temperature between 2 and 4 degrees Celsius and is well-wrapped or sealed in an airtight container. However, if the vegan cheese is not stored properly, it may only last a few days before its quality drops.

It is important to note that different types of vegan cheese have varying degrees of longevity. For example, spreadable cream vegan cheeses require refrigeration to prevent them from going bad, while dry vegan cheeses like Parmesan alternatives in jars or nutritional yeast can last for months on a shelf or kitchen counter.

Additionally, the ambient temperature outside the fridge and the ingredients used in the cheese can impact its longevity. For instance, supermarket vegan cheeses made with starches and coconut oil can be left out for longer periods without spoiling due to their oil content, while artisanal vegan cheeses made with wholefood ingredients are more susceptible to drying out, moulding, or sweating if left out of the fridge.

To ensure the safety and quality of opened vegan cheese, it is recommended to follow the storage instructions provided by the manufacturer or maker. If there are no specific instructions, it is generally advisable to consume the cheese within a few days to weeks of opening, depending on the packaging and type of cheese.

How to store vegan cheese

Storing vegan cheese correctly is essential to prolonging its shelf life and maintaining its quality. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store vegan cheese:

Optimum Storage Temperature

The ideal temperature for storing vegan cheese in the refrigerator is between 2°C and 4°C. Maintaining this temperature range will help prevent the cheese from spoiling. At this temperature, vegan cheese can last for months, even beyond its best-before date, without any issues.

Packaging and Sealing

The packaging of vegan cheese plays a crucial role in determining its shelf life. If the cheese is packaged in paper or wax wrappers that are not airtight, its quality may deteriorate within a couple of weeks, even before the best-before date. To extend the shelf life, transfer the cheese to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. This will help prevent moisture loss and the absorption of odours from other foods in the refrigerator.

Freezer Storage

If you wish to store vegan cheese for an extended period, consider freezing it. Freezing can indefinitely prolong the shelf life of vegan cheese. This is especially useful if you have opened the cheese and cannot reseal it airtight. However, remember to defrost the cheese in the refrigerator before using it, which requires some planning ahead.

Different Types of Vegan Cheese

The storage method may vary depending on the type of vegan cheese. Dry vegan cheeses, such as Parmesan alternatives or nutritional yeast, can be stored at room temperature and will last for months. On the other hand, spreadable cream vegan cheeses require refrigeration to prevent spoilage. Artisanal vegan cheeses made from wholefood ingredients are more susceptible to drying out, moulding, or sweating, so they should be consumed promptly after opening.

Checking for Spoilage

When in doubt, always check the cheese for any signs of degradation, mould, or unusual odours before consuming it. If the cheese has been left unrefrigerated for an extended period, use your judgement and perform a \"sniff test\" to assess its freshness. If it passes the sight, smell, and taste test, it is likely still safe to consume.

In summary, storing vegan cheese at the proper temperature, using airtight packaging, and being mindful of the specific type of cheese will help ensure its longevity and freshness. Remember to check the manufacturer's website for storage instructions and always practise food safety by checking for any signs of spoilage before consumption.

Freezing vegan cheese

Firstly, it is important to prepare the cheese before freezing. If your vegan cheese comes in a block or wheel, it is recommended to slice or cut it into portions to minimise the need for thawing large quantities at once. This step is crucial as freezing can affect the texture, and you want to avoid repeatedly thawing and refreezing the cheese.

Next, use airtight, freezer-safe containers or wrap the cheese securely in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. Minimise air exposure to prevent freezer burn, which can negatively impact the cheese's quality. Always label your containers with the freezing date, as this will help you track how long the cheese has been frozen. Most vegan cheeses have a shelf life of around 4-6 months in the freezer.

When it's time to use your frozen vegan cheese, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw gradually. Slow thawing helps preserve the texture and flavour. Before using the cheese, let it come to room temperature for the best flavour and texture. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the size of the cheese portion.

It is important to note that while freezing vegan cheese is possible, it may still undergo some changes in texture and flavour. Freezing can sometimes make vegan cheese slightly crumbly or drier than its fresh form. However, the taste remains relatively consistent.

Remember that the success of freezing vegan cheese depends on the initial quality of the cheese, as well as how well it is prepared and stored. High-quality vegan cheeses with a creamy texture and robust flavour will likely freeze well.

Overall, freezing is a convenient and cost-effective way to extend the shelf life of vegan cheese. By following the proper freezing and thawing techniques, you can enjoy your favourite plant-based cheese at your convenience without compromising its quality.

How long does unopened vegan cheese last in the fridge?

The length of time that unopened vegan cheese lasts in the fridge depends on a few factors. These include the type of cheese, the ingredients used, and the packaging.

Firstly, the type of cheese is important. Dry vegan cheeses, such as Parmesan alternatives or nutritional yeast, can last for months on a shelf or in a kitchen without refrigeration. On the other hand, spreadable cream cheeses require refrigeration to stay fresh and even then, they may only last a few days once opened. Supermarket vegan cheeses made with starches and coconut oil can be left out for longer periods, thanks to the oil content preserving the product, but they should still be refrigerated to extend their shelf life.

Secondly, the ingredients used in the cheese will impact its longevity. Artisanal vegan cheeses made from wholefood ingredients, for example, are more susceptible to drying out, mould, and sweating if left unrefrigerated or not stored properly.

Lastly, the packaging of the cheese is crucial. If the packaging is not airtight, the cheese will not last as long, even if it is stored in the fridge. An airtight seal will help to extend the shelf life of the product by keeping out ambient air.

In general, if stored correctly, unopened vegan cheese can last for several months in the fridge and even beyond its best-before date. However, it's always a good idea to check the cheese for any signs of degradation and perform a smell and taste test before consuming it. Additionally, if you are still unsure about the storage of a particular vegan cheese, you can always check the manufacturer's website for specific storage instructions.

Frequently asked questions