Vegetating Cheese: The Ideal Duration For Optimal Flavor

The length of the vegetative stage for a plant depends on various factors, including the number of harvests per year, the size of the plant, and the available space. The veg stage can be as long or as short as the grower wants. A longer veg period, such as 12 weeks, results in a larger plant, while a shorter veg period, such as 3 to 4 weeks, is suitable for growers who want to harvest more frequently throughout the year. Most indoor growers veg plants for around 4 to 8 weeks, which includes the period after planting a seed or cutting a clone.

When it comes to vegan cheese, the duration it lasts depends on factors such as brand, type, fat content, water content, and storage methods. Plant-based cheese typically lasts for about a week in the fridge before showing signs of spoilage, but this can vary, with some cheese lasting for a month and others spoiling within a few days. Proper storage methods, such as using airtight containers, can extend the shelf life of vegan cheese by a few days.

How long to veg cheese

How long does vegan cheese last in the fridge?

The length of time vegan cheese lasts in the fridge depends on several factors, including the type of cheese, the ingredients used, and how it is packaged and stored.

Type of Cheese

Vegan cheese typically lasts around a week in the fridge before it starts to go mouldy, but this can vary depending on the brand and type of cheese. Some cheese lasts for a month, while others show signs of mould after a few days. Soft vegan cheeses generally last 1-4 weeks in the refrigerator, while hard vegan cheeses can last several months if stored properly.

Ingredients

The higher the fat content and lower the water content in the vegan cheese, the longer it will last in the fridge.

Packaging and Storage

To maximise the lifespan of vegan cheese, it should be stored in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature for storing vegan cheese is between 2°C and 5°C. At this temperature, some vegan cheeses can last for months, even beyond their best-before date. However, if the packaging is not airtight, the cheese may only last a few days or weeks.

Freezing

Freezing is an option to extend the shelf life of vegan cheese, although it may affect the texture and flavour. When defrosting frozen vegan cheese, it is important to plan ahead and allow enough time for it to thaw properly.

How long does soft and hard cheese last?

The shelf life of soft and hard cheese depends on several factors, including moisture content, storage method, and temperature.

Soft cheeses, such as ricotta, feta, mozzarella, and Camembert, have a high moisture content, making them more perishable than harder cheeses. In general, unopened soft cheeses will last for a few weeks to a couple of months past their "best by" date when refrigerated. Once opened, soft cheeses will typically last for about a week in the fridge. However, it's important to note that the quality and taste of soft cheese will start to decline before the end of this timeframe.

Hard cheeses, on the other hand, have a lower moisture content, which helps extend their shelf life. Unopened hard cheeses like Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda can last for several months, and even up to a year, when stored in the fridge. Once opened, hard cheeses can last for about three to four weeks in the refrigerator.

To extend the shelf life of both soft and hard cheeses, proper storage is crucial. Soft cheeses sold in brine, like feta or fresh mozzarella, should be kept in the liquid with a secure lid. Blue cheese can be wrapped in foil. Soft-ripened cheese, like Brie, has a delicate rind and is best wrapped in cheese paper or parchment paper and stored in an airtight container. For semi-hard and hard cheeses, it is recommended to remove the cheese from its plastic packaging and wrap it loosely in cheese paper or wax paper before placing it in an airtight container.

Additionally, maintaining a safe refrigerator temperature of below 40°F (4°C) is essential to prevent spoilage. At higher temperatures, the rate of bacterial growth increases, leading to a higher risk of cheese going bad.

Can you freeze vegan cheese?

Vegan cheese can be frozen, and it will last for up to five months in the freezer. However, it is worth noting that freezing vegan cheese will affect its texture and taste. Once defrosted, the cheese may become crumbly and harder to grate. Therefore, it is recommended to freeze shredded or grated cheese rather than a block of cheese. The cheese should be stored in an airtight container or a sealed bag to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other smells.

Some types of vegan cheese are more suitable for freezing than others. Hard cheeses, such as cheddar and parmesan, freeze well and can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. Semi-soft cheeses, like mozzarella, can also be frozen but may become softer after defrosting. Unexpectedly, vegan ricotta, which is typically made with tofu, coconut, and nuts, can be frozen as well. On the other hand, freezing soft cheeses like cream cheese is not recommended as it significantly impacts their creamy texture.

When it comes to defrosting vegan cheese, there are a few options. The best method is to thaw the cheese in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours, as this helps retain its original flavor and texture. Defrosting on the counter at room temperature will take less time, about 2 to 3 hours, but may not produce the same results. For a quicker option, the microwave can be used for around 40 seconds on low power, but this will alter the texture of the cheese.

It is important to note that freezing and defrosting vegan cheese may cause changes in its texture and taste. Once defrosted, the cheese may taste less rich, and its texture may become crumbly and more granular. Therefore, it is recommended to use frozen and defrosted vegan cheese for cooking or melting purposes rather than eating it as is. Additionally, refreezing defrosted vegan cheese is not advisable as it will further deteriorate the texture and taste.

How long does vegan cream cheese last?

The shelf life of vegan cream cheese depends on several factors, including the ingredients, packaging, and storage conditions.

Vegan cream cheese, such as Violife, is typically made with coconut cream or oil, potato starch, and salt, and needs to be refrigerated to stay fresh. When left at room temperature for two hours or more, it can spoil. Most store-bought vegan cream cheese products advise that they should be consumed within seven days of opening, but they can last between 7–10 days, depending on the brand. To extend its shelf life, keep it in an airtight container within its original packaging in the fridge, which can add a few extra days to its freshness.

Unopened vegan cream cheese can last beyond its expiration date. The containers are often heat-processed, helping the contents stay fresh for months in the fridge. Some brands, like Violife, claim a refrigerated shelf life of 180 days for unopened packages.

Homemade vegan cream cheese, such as the cashew-based variety, has a shorter shelf life of up to 4–5 days in the refrigerator. Freezing is an option to extend the shelf life of both store-bought and homemade vegan cream cheese, but it may affect the texture.

It's important to inspect vegan cream cheese for signs of spoilage before consumption. A good indicator is the presence of mould. Small spots of green or white mould can be cut off, but if black mould is spotted, the entire block should be discarded as it is a dangerous variant, although rare. Another way to check is by smelling the cheese. If it smells fine, it is likely safe to consume.

How long does vegan parmesan last?

Vegan parmesan, like regular cheese, can go mouldy and spoil over time. The shelf life of vegan parmesan depends on several factors, including the brand, type, and how it is stored.

Vegan parmesan that is store-bought and unopened can last up to three months. However, once opened, it is recommended to be consumed within seven days. To extend its freshness by a few days, it should be stored in an airtight container within its original packaging in the fridge. If you buy it in a block, only take it out when you are ready to grate it, as it won't grate well at room temperature.

Vegan parmesan can also be frozen to extend its shelf life, although it may not defrost as well. It can be frozen for up to three months when stored in an airtight container or sealed bag.

It's important to note that different brands may have specific guidelines for their products, so always check the label. Additionally, the higher the fat content and the lower the water content in the vegan cheese, the longer it will last in the fridge.

Frequently asked questions