Patrick Oconnell
Shredded cheese is a convenient and versatile form of cheese that has been pre-grated into small, thin pieces. It is commonly used in cooking and baking due to its ability to melt easily. While it offers these benefits, one may wonder if shredded cheese goes bad after being stored for two weeks. Generally, shredded cheese can be safely stored in the refrigerator for about 5-7 days after opening, depending on the type of cheese. Hard cheeses like Parmesan and Swiss can be consumed within a month of opening, while soft cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella are best consumed within one to two weeks. It's important to note that proper storage is crucial to maximize the shelf life of shredded cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Expiry date | The labels on shredded cheese are "merely the manufacturer's estimate of when food will taste its best"There are no laws requiring food manufacturers to put date labels on foods |
| Opened shredded cheese | Should be used within 5-7 days for best taste and safety |
| Opened hard cheese | Should be eaten within a month of purchase |
| Opened soft cheese | Should be eaten within one to two weeks of purchase |
| Mould | Cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the mould |
| Freezing | Should be eaten within six months from when it was bought |
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What You'll Learn
Opened shredded cheese lasts 5-7 days in the fridge
It's important to note that the shelf life of opened shredded cheese may be shorter than that of unopened cheese. This is because shredding the cheese can introduce contaminants that can shorten its shelf life. To maximize the shelf life of shredded cheese, it should be tightly sealed in its original packaging or placed in resealable plastic bags or airtight containers.
Additionally, the temperature of the fridge is important for maintaining the quality of shredded cheese. The ideal temperature is below 40°F (4°C). At higher temperatures, bacteria can multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of spoilage.
Some signs of spoilage in shredded cheese include changes in colour and appearance, such as darkening, drying out, or the growth of white mould. It may also develop a sour or off smell. If the cheese appears slimy or mouldy, it should be discarded as it can pose a health risk.
To further extend the shelf life of shredded cheese, it can be frozen. Freezing shredded cheese can maintain its quality for up to 6-8 months, although there may be some changes in texture. When freezing, it is recommended to divide the cheese into small, meal-sized portions for convenience.
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Freeze shredded cheese to extend its life by 6-8 months
Shredded cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life. Freezing shredded cheese is a great way to make it last longer and avoid waste. It is important to note that freezing will alter the texture and consistency of the cheese, so it is best used for cooking rather than served on its own.
To freeze shredded cheese, start by shredding the cheese yourself or purchasing a bag of pre-shredded cheese. It is important to note that shredding the cheese yourself may result in a shorter shelf life due to contamination. However, shredding the cheese yourself can help it defrost better once frozen.
Next, place the shredded cheese in an airtight, resealable plastic freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it. You can also use vacuum sealing, which can preserve the cheese for up to two months. Alternatively, you can use the parchment/foil method, which will keep the cheese for about a month.
Finally, store the shredded cheese in the freezer. It is recommended to consume frozen shredded cheese within six months, although some sources suggest it can last up to eight months. When you are ready to use the cheese, you can defrost it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Cooking with frozen cheese is the best approach, as the cheese's texture might be altered slightly after freezing. Once melted, any change in texture will be unnoticeable.
It is important to note that not all cheeses are suitable for freezing. Soft cheeses with a high moisture content may not freeze well and can develop an undesirable texture. Harder cheeses with a lower moisture content tend to freeze better and maintain their flavour and texture. Additionally, cheeses with a natural rind, such as Camembert or cloth-bound cheddar, may develop undesirable flavours when frozen.
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Soft shredded cheese like mozzarella is good for 1-2 weeks
Soft shredded cheese, such as mozzarella, is good for 1-2 weeks after the purchase date. This timeframe is an estimate, and the cheese may still be edible after this period, as long as it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage.
Soft cheeses have a shorter shelf life than hard cheeses because they are more susceptible to bacterial growth and spoilage. Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the quality and safety of shredded cheese. It should be kept in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). Storing it in an airtight container or zip-top bag helps to maintain freshness and prevent mold growth.
Once the package is opened, soft shredded cheese should be consumed within 5-7 days. This is because exposure to oxygen and moisture can accelerate bacterial growth and cause the cheese to spoil faster. Freezing shredded cheese is an option to extend its shelf life. When frozen, it can last for up to 6-8 months, although the texture may change slightly.
To determine if soft shredded cheese is still good after two weeks, examine its appearance and smell. Shredded cheese that has gone bad will typically darken and dry out, and white molds may grow on the surface. It will also smell sour or off. If any of these signs are present, the cheese should be discarded as it can make you sick.
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Hard shredded cheeses like parmesan can be eaten within a month
It's important to note that there are no laws requiring food manufacturers to provide date labels on food products. Therefore, the labels on shredded cheese are usually the manufacturer's estimate of when the product will taste its best. According to food scientist Janilyn Hutchings, "all foods, including shredded cheese, can usually still be eaten after their expiration dates, as long as they've been stored properly."
To maximize the shelf life of shredded cheese, it should be tightly sealed in its original packaging or placed in resealable plastic bags or airtight containers. Maintaining a safe fridge temperature below 40°F (4°C) is essential. Blocks of cheese should be wrapped in wax, parchment, or cheese paper to help maintain moisture and stored on the top or middle shelf, above raw meats, poultry, and fish to avoid contamination.
It's important to inspect hard cheeses like parmesan carefully for mold. If you notice any, cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the affected areas. However, if you notice mold on soft cheeses or shredded cheeses, whether hard or soft, it's best to discard them. While it's generally safe to consume cheese that has been properly stored beyond its expiration date, it's important to use your best judgment and consider the potential risks.
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Shredded cheese can be unsafe if mouldy, slimy, or smelling off
Shredded cheese is a convenient option for many, but it can go bad. While it may be tempting to use shredded cheese that is showing signs of spoilage, it is important to exercise caution as it can be unsafe to consume.
Firstly, it is worth noting that there are no laws requiring food manufacturers to provide expiration dates on food products, including shredded cheese. The dates on the packaging are estimates of when the cheese will taste its best. Therefore, shredded cheese can often be consumed after its expiration date, provided it has been stored properly.
However, shredded cheese can become unsafe for consumption if it exhibits certain characteristics. If the cheese appears mouldy, it is important to discard it. While it is possible to cut off mouldy portions from blocks of hard cheese, shredded cheese, regardless of whether it is hard or soft, should be thrown away if mould is present. Mould can cause food poisoning, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhoea.
In addition to mould, shredded cheese that has become slimy or smells off should be discarded. These are indications that the cheese has spoiled and is no longer safe to eat. The presence of slime or an unpleasant odour suggests bacterial growth, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.
To prevent shredded cheese from spoiling prematurely, it is essential to practise proper storage methods. Shredded cheese should be kept refrigerated at all times, ideally in an airtight container or zip-top bag to maintain freshness and prevent mould growth. Additionally, it is recommended to consume shredded cheese within 5 to 7 days of opening the package to ensure optimal taste and safety.
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Frequently asked questions
Shredded cheese that is soft, like mozzarella or cheddar, will be bad after two weeks. Hard cheeses like parmesan and Swiss cheese can be eaten within a month of purchase.
Shredded cheese that has gone bad will typically darken and dry out. You might also see white moulds growing on the surface, and it will smell sour or off. If the cheese appears slimy or mouldy, throw it away as it can make you sick.
To extend the shelf life of shredded cheese, it should be stored in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the fridge. Alternatively, shredded cheese can be frozen and will last for 6-8 months.
