Frederic Melton
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese that originated in Italy and has a relatively long shelf life. Proper storage is essential to keeping the flavour and texture of Parmesan cheese at its peak. But how long is that shelf life, and how do you know when Parmesan has gone bad?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Unopened Parmesan shelf life | Several months beyond the expiration date |
| Opened Parmesan shelf life | 4-8 weeks |
| Grated Parmesan shelf life | Up to a week |
| Grated Parmesan freezer life | 12-18 months |
| Parmesan temperature | Below 40°F (4°C) |
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What You'll Learn
How long does Parmesan cheese last in the fridge?
Parmesan cheese has a relatively long shelf life, especially when stored properly. When unopened and stored in the refrigerator, parmesan cheese can last up to 9 months. Once opened, it will typically last for 4 to 8 weeks. To maximise its shelf life, wrap the original packaging tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. For even better results, wrap the cheese first in wax or parchment paper and then cover it with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
If you've bought grated parmesan, make sure to check the "best before" date on the packaging. After opening the canister, keep it in the fridge. Opened grated parmesan cheese lasts up to a week in the fridge, but you should always check for signs of spoilage, such as a spongy texture and off-putting smell.
To extend the shelf life of parmesan cheese, keep it in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. Store it at temperatures below 40°F (4°C). Ensure the cheese is well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.
Check for signs of spoilage, such as mould growth, off odours, or changes in texture. If you notice mould on the surface, it's generally safe to cut off the affected portion, and the rest of the cheese should still be usable. However, if mould appears in a package of shredded, sliced, or crumbled parmesan cheese, the entire package should be discarded.
While these guidelines provide a general idea, it's important to use your judgment and consider the specific storage conditions. If there are any noticeable changes in colour, texture, or smell, inspect the cheese closely to determine if it is still suitable for consumption.
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What is the shelf life of grated Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan cheese has a relatively long shelf life, especially when stored properly. When left unopened and stored in the fridge, it can last up to 9 months. Once opened, it can last 4-8 weeks.
Grated Parmesan cheese, however, may have a shorter shelf life compared to a block or wheel of Parmesan. Some sources claim that opened grated Parmesan cheese can last up to a week in the refrigerator, while others say it can last for about two weeks. To extend its shelf life, it is recommended to keep it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag in the refrigerator, at temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
It is important to note that grated Parmesan cheese is more prone to clumping and absorbing moisture, which can affect its flavour and texture. To prevent this, you can add a little cornstarch, flour, or arrowroot powder to the grated cheese, as these ingredients absorb moisture.
Additionally, freezing grated Parmesan cheese is an effective way to extend its shelf life. When stored in an airtight container in the freezer, it can stay fresh and clump-free for up to six months.
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Can you freeze Parmesan cheese?
Yes, you can freeze Parmesan cheese. It's a hard cheese with a long shelf life, and freezing is a good way to prolong it. However, it's important to note that freezing will affect the texture and taste of the cheese.
To freeze Parmesan cheese, wrap a wedge in parchment paper, cheesecloth, wax paper, or a food-grade plastic film to prevent condensation. Then, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. Frozen Parmesan cheese can last for up to a year, and shredded Parmesan can last for three to six months.
When it comes to defrosting, place the wedge on a countertop for about ten minutes to bring it to room temperature. If you're using shredded frozen Parmesan, simply shake it to break up any clumps before use.
While freezing is an option, it's recommended to store Parmesan cheese in the refrigerator, where it can last for several months. To store it in the fridge, wrap the cheese in parchment paper, cheesecloth, wax paper, or a food-grade plastic film, and then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent it from absorbing other smells. Place the wrapped cheese in a crisper drawer. An unopened block of Parmesan cheese can last for up to nine months in the fridge, while an opened block will stay fresh for one to two months.
Some people also suggest storing Parmesan cheese in vacuum-sealed bags or glass or plastic containers to extend its shelf life. Additionally, keeping the cheese dry and preventing moisture buildup is crucial to maintaining its quality and flavour.
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How to store Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese that, if stored properly, can last for several weeks to months. The best way to store Parmesan cheese is to place it in the refrigerator, preferably in the crisper drawer, which is usually used to store fruits and vegetables.
- Keep it in an airtight container, resealable bag, or vacuum-sealed bag in the refrigerator.
- Store grated or shredded Parmesan in an airtight container or a vacuum-sealed bag to extend its shelf life.
- Ensure the cheese is well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.
- Wrap the cheese in parchment paper, wax paper, or cheesecloth/cheese paper, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminium foil before refrigerating.
- Store the cheese at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).
- Keep the cheese away from other foods to prevent it from absorbing smells.
- Check for signs of spoilage, such as mould growth, off odours, or changes in texture, colour, or taste.
You can also freeze Parmesan cheese to prolong its shelf life. When freezing, cut the cheese into smaller blocks and place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. Frozen Parmesan cheese is best suited for cooked dishes, as it may become crumbly and lose some of its flavour.
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How to identify if Parmesan cheese has gone bad?
Parmesan cheese is a type of hard cheese that originated in Italy. It is made by heating cow's milk and then adding lactic acid bacteria to lower the pH, followed by rennet for coagulation. Parmigiano-Reggiano, the "true" Parmesan cheese, is said to have the best quality and is produced only in certain parts of Italy.
When it comes to identifying if Parmesan cheese has gone bad, there are several signs of spoilage to look out for. Firstly, familiarize yourself with the cheese's original colour, texture, smell, and taste when you first open it. This way, you'll be able to notice any changes over time. Spoiled Parmesan will typically exhibit the following signs:
- Change in Colour: Spoiled Parmesan will change colour from light to dark.
- Harder Texture: It will develop a harder texture compared to its original state.
- Mould: You may notice green mould on the surface of the cheese.
- Unpleasant Smell: If the cheese has gone bad, it will likely have a mouldy or sour smell.
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the cheese. For shredded Parmesan cheese, always check the "best-before" date and look out for a spongy texture. If you see any signs of spoilage, discard the cheese immediately and get a fresh pack.
It's important to note that proper storage is crucial to maintaining the freshness of Parmesan cheese. When stored properly in the refrigerator, Parmesan can last for several weeks to months. To extend its shelf life, keep opened Parmesan in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator, ensuring it is well-sealed to prevent drying out or absorbing odours.
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Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese has a relatively long shelf life, lasting up to 9 months if unopened and stored properly. Once opened, it can last 4-8 weeks.
To extend the shelf life of Parmesan cheese, it should be stored in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator, at temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Parmesan cheese that is spoiling will develop a harder texture, darken in colour, and may have mould on the surface. It will also give off a strong, sour smell.
