Andy Montoya
Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a popular choice for queso dips, macaroni and cheese, sandwiches, casseroles, sauces, and soups. The cheese has a long shelf life of 270 days under refrigeration and can be frozen and thawed multiple times without affecting its quality. However, it is important to ensure proper storage at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or cooler to maintain its freshness. With its rich, buttery flavor and smooth melting ability, Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese is a convenient and reliable option for chefs and home cooks alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Cultured pasteurized milk and skim milk, cream, salt, contains less than 2% of sodium phosphate, milkfat, artificial color, enzymes |
| Storage temperature | 41 degrees Fahrenheit or cooler |
| Shelf life | Up to 3 months |
| Freezing | Can be frozen |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese can be frozen
The product is shipped and stored under refrigeration, with a shelf life of 270 days. However, if you are ordering a large quantity and are concerned about expiration dates, you may want to consider freezing it. Freezing is a good option for those who cannot consume 30 pounds of cheese before it expires.
Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese freezes and thaws nicely, according to a customer review. It can be frozen in its original packaging, which is shipped in a strong box lined with styrofoam and ice packs.
If you choose to freeze your Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese, be sure to thaw it safely and slowly in the refrigerator before use. It is important to note that freezing may affect the texture and performance of the cheese, so it is recommended to use it within a few months of freezing to ensure the best quality.
Melting Great Value Easy Cheese: A Quick Guide
You may want to see also
It has a shelf life of 270 days under refrigeration
Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese is a popular choice for cheese lovers, known for its creamy texture and rich flavour. When it comes to storage, maintaining the right conditions is essential to preserving the quality and prolonging the shelf life of this cheese.
Under optimal conditions, Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese boasts an impressive shelf life of 270 days, or approximately nine months, under continuous refrigeration. This extended shelf life sets it apart from other cheeses and makes it a convenient option for those who enjoy having cheese on hand for recipes or snacking.
To ensure the full shelf life of 270 days, it is crucial to follow proper storage practices. This cheese should be stored under refrigeration at all times, maintaining a consistent temperature of 4°C (39°F) or lower. Fluctuations in temperature can impact the quality and safety of the cheese, so a reliable refrigerator is essential.
Additionally, proper packaging is key to maximising the shelf life. Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese should be kept in its original packaging, which is designed to maintain freshness. This packaging helps to regulate moisture levels and prevent the cheese from drying out or absorbing excess moisture, which can affect its texture and flavour.
While the cheese should remain in its original packaging, it is also important to inspect it regularly. Check for any signs of spoilage, such as mould or discolouration. If mould is spotted, it is recommended to cut away the affected portion, along with a generous amount of cheese around it, to ensure no contaminated parts remain.
By adhering to these storage guidelines, consumers can confidently enjoy the full shelf life of 270 days for Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese. This extended shelf life not only reduces food waste but also ensures a consistent supply of delicious, creamy cheese for all your culinary creations.
Melting Merkt's Cheese: A Quick and Easy Guide
You may want to see also
It's shipped and stored at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or cooler
Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is shipped and stored at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or cooler. This temperature ensures that the cheese remains fresh and maintains its quality during transit and storage.
Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for food safety and the longevity of the product. At 41 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, the cheese will stay chilled, slowing down bacterial growth and preventing spoilage. This temperature range helps to preserve the cheese's texture and flavour, ensuring that it remains in optimal condition until it is used.
Proper storage practices are essential for foodservice operators and retailers to guarantee the safety and satisfaction of their customers. By storing the cheese at the recommended temperature, they can maintain the high standards that customers expect from the Land O Lakes brand.
Additionally, customers who purchase this product should also be mindful of storing it at the correct temperature in their refrigerators to ensure its freshness and prolong its shelf life. This temperature requirement is especially important for those who buy in bulk, as proper storage will help maintain the quality of the cheese over time.
The Art of Melting Paneer Cheese
You may want to see also
Explore related products
It can be purchased in 5-pound loaves or 5-pound bricks
Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese is available for purchase in 5-pound loaves or 5-pound bricks. The loaves are labelled for a 270-day shelf life under refrigeration. This cheese is incredibly versatile and can be sliced, shredded, cubed, or melted. It is made with pasteurized milk, skim milk, and cream, and provides a smooth, rich, and buttery flavour.
The 5-pound option is ideal for those who plan to use the cheese in a variety of dishes or for those who are stocking up for a large group. It is a convenient and cost-effective option for those who know they will be using a lot of cheese over a period of time. The cheese can be frozen and thawed multiple times without losing its quality, so buying in bulk is a great option for those who want to always have some cheese on hand.
When storing the 5-pound loaves or bricks of Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese, it is important to keep them refrigerated to maintain their shelf life. The cheese should be kept in an airtight container or well-wrapped in plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from other foods in the refrigerator. It is also a good idea to date and label the cheese so you can keep track of how long it has been in the refrigerator.
If you are not planning to use the cheese within the 270-day shelf life, it is possible to freeze the cheese to extend its storage time. To freeze the cheese, wrap the 5-pound loaf or brick tightly in plastic wrap or foil and then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. This will help to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the cheese. When you are ready to use the frozen cheese, simply move it to the refrigerator to thaw slowly.
Melting Mexican Cheese: The Ultimate Guide to a Gooey Delight
You may want to see also
It's also available in cheese sauce form
Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, from queso dips to casseroles, sauces, soups, and sandwiches. It has a long shelf life of 270 days under refrigeration and can also be frozen, making it a convenient option for those who want to stock up.
Storage Instructions
When storing Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese, it is important to follow proper storage procedures to ensure the cheese remains safe to consume and maintains its quality. Here are some detailed storage instructions:
- Refrigeration: Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese should be stored under refrigeration at all times. Ensure that your refrigerator is set to a temperature of 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius) or cooler. This will help prevent spoilage and maintain the cheese's texture and flavor.
- Original Packaging: It is recommended to keep the cheese in its original packaging, as it is designed to preserve freshness. The packaging helps maintain the ideal moisture level and prevents the cheese from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
- Tight Seal: Make sure the cheese is securely sealed in its original packaging. A tight seal minimizes air exposure, which can cause the cheese to dry out or spoil prematurely.
- Avoid Freezer: While Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese can be frozen, it is not the ideal storage method for long-term preservation. Freezing and thawing can affect the texture and flavor of the cheese. Therefore, it is recommended to only freeze the cheese if you intend to consume it within a reasonable period and if you have followed proper defrosting procedures.
- First-In-First-Out: To ensure you are consuming the freshest cheese, practice the first-in-first-out method. Use the oldest cheese first and rotate your stock by placing newly purchased cheese at the back of the refrigerator or in a designated "use first" section.
- Cleanliness: Maintain a clean and sanitary storage environment. Keep your refrigerator clean and free from odors that may be absorbed by the cheese. Regularly clean the shelves and compartments to prevent the transfer of bacteria or mold.
- Expiration Awareness: Be mindful of the expiration date or best-before date on the packaging. Even when stored properly, cheese can eventually spoil or lose its optimal flavor and texture over time.
In addition to the block cheese form, Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese is also available in a convenient cheese sauce form. This option provides the same great taste and performance you expect from the Extra Melt brand but in a ready-to-use sauce format.
Land O Lakes Extra Melt Cheese Sauce
- Convenience: The cheese sauce offers the ultimate convenience for busy chefs and foodservice professionals. It saves time in the kitchen by eliminating the need to create a cheese sauce from scratch. Simply heat the sauce and use it as a base or topping for various dishes.
- Consistency: The cheese sauce delivers the same consistent quality and performance as the block cheese. It has a smooth and creamy texture, making it perfect for creating signature dishes or comfort classics.
- Versatility: Just like the block cheese, the cheese sauce is incredibly versatile. It can be used in a wide range of applications, from appetizers to main courses. Create delicious queso dips, macaroni and cheese, sandwiches, and more.
- Performance: The cheese sauce exhibits excellent hot-hold performance. It resists browning and thickening, ensuring your dishes maintain their visual and textural appeal. This performance attribute makes it a reliable choice for foodservice operations.
- Time-Saving: The cheese sauce format significantly reduces preparation time. It requires no roux and can be heated and served in just 15 to 20 minutes, making it an efficient option for busy kitchens.
- Quality: Despite being a time-saving option, the cheese sauce does not compromise on quality. It provides the same rich, creamy, and buttery flavor you expect from Land O Lakes Extra Melt products, elevating the taste of your dishes.
Whether you choose the block cheese or the cheese sauce form, Land O Lakes Extra Melt products offer unparalleled versatility, performance, and taste. With proper storage practices, you can maximize the shelf life of these products and fully explore their potential in your culinary creations.
Melting Pre-Shredded Cheese: Best Techniques for Quick Melt
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The shelf life of Land O Lakes Easy Melt Cheese is around 270 days under refrigeration.
The ideal temperature to store Land O Lakes Easy Melt Cheese is 41 degrees Fahrenheit or cooler.
Yes, Land O Lakes Easy Melt Cheese can be frozen and it thaws nicely.
If the cheese gets mouldy, cut that chunk out, along with a good portion around it. The rest of the cheese will be fine to consume.
Land O Lakes Easy Melt Cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including queso dips, macaroni and cheese, sandwiches, soups, and sauces.
