Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: How Long Does It Last?

Mozzarella cheese is a soft cheese that can be stored in the refrigerator for a short period. Once opened, shredded mozzarella cheese should be consumed within 5 to 7 days. However, if the refrigerator door was left open overnight, it is recommended to use the cheese sooner and check for mold. To extend the shelf life, shredded mozzarella can be frozen and will maintain its quality for about 8 months.

Refrigerated shredded mozzarella cheese will last for about 5 to 7 days

To maximise the shelf life of shredded mozzarella cheese, it is recommended to seal the original packaging tightly or transfer the cheese to resealable plastic bags or airtight containers. Proper storage ensures the cheese remains fresh and suitable for consumption.

Additionally, it is crucial to maintain the recommended refrigeration temperature at all times. If the refrigerator door was left open overnight, the cheese may be safe to consume, but it is advisable to use it sooner and check for mould before each use.

To further extend the shelf life, shredded mozzarella cheese can be frozen. However, freezing may alter the texture and flavour of the cheese, making it more suitable for cooked dishes. When freezing, ensure the packaging is tightly sealed and placed in the freezer before the recommended refrigeration days have passed.

Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F

Shredded mozzarella cheese is a dairy product and, as such, requires careful handling and storage to ensure food safety. Bacteria grow most rapidly within the temperature range of 40 °F to 140 °F, which is often referred to as the "Danger Zone." This range is critical for food safety because bacteria can multiply quickly and reach unsafe levels that can cause foodborne illnesses.

At temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F, bacteria can double in number in as little as 20 minutes. This rapid growth can occur without any visible signs of spoilage, making it crucial to handle and store food properly to prevent food poisoning. Perishable foods, such as dairy products, should be kept below 40 °F to slow down or halt bacterial growth.

To maintain food safety and extend the shelf life of shredded mozzarella cheese, it is essential to keep it refrigerated at all times. Properly stored, shredded mozzarella cheese will generally last for about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. However, if the package is opened, it is recommended to consume or freeze the cheese within this timeframe, even if the "Best By" date has not passed.

Additionally, shredded mozzarella cheese should be discarded if left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as bacteria can quickly multiply and compromise food safety. To further extend its shelf life, shredded mozzarella cheese can be frozen, although it may lose some of its texture and flavor.

Frozen shredded mozzarella cheese will maintain best quality for about 8 months

Frozen shredded mozzarella cheese will maintain its best quality for about 8 months. This is, however, dependent on proper storage. To maximise the shelf life of shredded mozzarella cheese, it is important to seal the cheese in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag before placing it in the freezer. If you plan on freezing the cheese for longer than 2 months, it is recommended to place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

When stored at a constant temperature of 0°F, shredded mozzarella cheese will remain safe to consume indefinitely. However, it is important to note that the cheese may lose some of its texture and flavour over time. As such, it is best suited for cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups, and casseroles.

To determine if shredded mozzarella cheese has gone bad, it is advisable to examine its odour, flavour, and appearance. If the cheese has developed an unusual odour, flavour, or appearance, or if mould appears, it is best to discard the entire batch.

Fresh mozzarella is typically packaged in brine, whey or water/liquid packing solution

Fresh mozzarella is typically packaged in brine, whey, or a water/liquid packing solution. This type of cheese is best when consumed on the same day it's purchased, but it can be stored for a few days if done properly.

When storing fresh mozzarella, it's important to keep it in its original packaging and submerge it in water or the liquid it came in. If you choose to use water, make sure to change it when it becomes murky. Storing it in an airtight container or plastic wrap in the refrigerator will help maintain its freshness for up to a week. Some people also recommend adding salt to the water to further preserve the cheese.

If you're using plastic wrap, ensure that the packaging is tightly closed and regularly changed. Additionally, monitor the water level and add a tablespoon or two if it decreases.

Freezing is another option to prolong the shelf life of fresh mozzarella. When freezing, use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Frozen mozzarella may lose some of its texture and flavour, so it's best suited for cooked dishes like sauces, soups, or casseroles.

Opened and frozen shredded mozzarella cheese can last up to three months

Shredded mozzarella cheese is a soft cheese that can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. However, if you want to extend its shelf life, freezing is a great option. Freezing shredded mozzarella cheese can help it last for up to three months, and even beyond that time, it will remain safe to consume. To ensure the best quality, it is recommended to use frozen shredded mozzarella within about eight months.

When freezing shredded mozzarella cheese, it is important to seal the original packaging tightly and place it in the freezer. If you plan to freeze it for longer than two months, it is advisable to put the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

While frozen mozzarella cheese may lose some of its texture and flavor, it can still be used in cooked dishes such as sauces, soups, and casseroles. The cheese should be thawed before use and added to hot foods.

It is important to note that shredded mozzarella cheese should be refrigerated at all times, except when being used. Bacteria can quickly grow at room temperature, and the cheese should be discarded if left out for more than two hours.

Frequently asked questions