Can Cheese Go Bad : What You MUST Know

Cheese: one of those foods that many of us simply can’t live without. Whether it’s sliced on a sandwich, sprinkled on pasta, or served as a delightful snack with some wine, cheese has been a staple in our diets for centuries. But, like all things, cheese doesn’t last forever. Its rich flavors and smooth textures can be a little tricky to preserve, especially if you’re unsure about how long it will keep or whether it’s still safe to eat.

That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about cheese, its shelf life, how to tell if it’s gone bad, and the best ways to store it so it lasts as long as possible.

Can Cheese Go Bad?

Yes, absolutely! While cheese doesn’t spoil as quickly as some other dairy products (like milk), it can still go bad. The main factors that affect cheese spoilage are the type of cheese, the way it’s stored, and how long it’s been sitting in your fridge or pantry.

• Moisture content: Soft cheeses, such as ricotta, cream cheese, and brie, have more moisture than their harder counterparts, like parmesan or cheddar. Moisture encourages the growth of bacteria and mold, making soft cheeses more prone to spoiling quicker.
• Fat and salt: The higher the fat and salt content, the longer the cheese tends to last. Aged cheeses, like gouda or cheddar, will last longer than fresh cheeses like mozzarella.
• Bacteria and mold: Some cheeses, such as blue cheese, are intentionally inoculated with mold. While it’s part of their flavor profile, not all mold growth is safe. In general, mold should not be present on cheese unless it’s a variety known for it.

In short, cheese can indeed go bad, but with proper care, you can slow down that process and make sure your cheese stays in good condition for as long as possible.

Shelf Life For Cheese

The shelf life of cheese depends greatly on the type of cheese and how it’s stored. Below is a general breakdown of how long you can expect different types of cheese to last.

Soft Cheeses (Cream Cheese, Ricotta, Brie)

• Unopened: These cheeses are most sensitive to spoilage due to their high moisture content.

  • Fridge: 1-2 weeks past the “sell by” date.

• Opened: Once opened, they last only a little longer.

  • Fridge: 5-7 days.

Semi-Hard Cheeses (Cheddar, Gouda, Swiss)

• Unopened: They last significantly longer due to their lower moisture content.

  • Fridge: 2-4 months past the “sell by” date.

• Opened: Once you cut into them, they’ll still hold up for a while.

  • Fridge: 3-4 weeks.

Hard Cheeses (Parmesan, Grana Padano, Pecorino)

• Unopened: These cheeses can stay fresh for a long time.

  • Fridge: 6 months to 1 year.

• Opened: Hard cheeses are very shelf-stable even once opened, as long as they’re stored properly.

  • Fridge: 4-6 weeks.

Fresh Cheeses (Mozzarella, Burrata, Feta)

• Unopened: Fresh cheeses are the most delicate.

  • Fridge: 1-2 weeks.

• Opened: Once opened, they need to be eaten fairly quickly.

  • Fridge: 3-5 days.

Blue Cheeses (Roquefort, Gorgonzola, Stilton)

• Unopened: Due to the mold and aging process, these cheeses have a long shelf life.

  • Fridge: 3-4 weeks.

• Opened: The mold may spread further, but it’s still safe to eat.

  • Fridge: 2-3 weeks.

Common Signs Of Spoilage

Sometimes, the best way to tell if your cheese has gone bad is by relying on your senses. Here are some common signs of spoilage to watch for:

Smell

• Cheese does have a strong odor, but if it smells sour, rancid, or ammonia-like, it’s probably gone bad. A strong, unpleasant smell is a sure sign that bacteria have started to spoil the cheese.

Texture

• Cheese that’s turned slimy, sticky, or excessively dry has likely gone bad. Soft cheeses may become mushy, and hard cheeses might crack or crumble in unusual ways.

Mold

• Mold is common on some cheeses (like blue cheese), but if you spot mold on cheeses that aren’t supposed to have it, it’s time to toss it. For hard cheeses, you can cut away the moldy part, but for soft cheeses, it’s best to discard the entire piece.

Discoloration

• Changes in color, like yellowing, dark spots, or unusual streaks, could indicate spoilage, especially if combined with off smells or textures.

Taste

• If the cheese tastes bitter or sour beyond its normal flavor profile, it’s time to let it go. Trust your taste buds – they’re your last line of defense.

How To Store Cheese?

Proper storage is crucial to keeping your cheese fresh for as long as possible. Here are the best tips to extend its shelf life:

Wrap Cheese Correctly

• For hard cheeses, wrapping them in wax paper or parchment paper, followed by a layer of plastic wrap, helps maintain freshness without trapping moisture.
• Soft cheeses should be stored in airtight containers or plastic wrap, and make sure they’re not exposed to air.
• Tip: For cheeses with a rind (like brie or camembert), avoid plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture and cause the rind to become slimy. Instead, opt for cheese paper or parchment.

Keep Cheese In The Right Place In The Fridge

• Store cheese in the main compartment of your fridge, not the door. The door gets too much fluctuation in temperature, which can hasten spoilage.

Avoid Storing Cheese In Original Packaging

• Pre-packaged cheeses often come in plastic that traps moisture. If you’ve opened it, transfer it to something like wax paper or a clean resealable bag that allows the cheese to breathe.

Use Cheese Storage Containers

• Some cheese lovers swear by dedicated cheese storage containers, which are designed to keep the cheese at the right humidity and temperature. These are especially useful for cheeses that are a little more delicate.

Freeze Cheese (With Care)

• Freezing cheese can alter its texture, especially soft cheeses, but hard cheeses freeze pretty well. If you do decide to freeze cheese, make sure it’s well-wrapped in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Once frozen, use it for cooking, as the texture might not be the same when thawed.

Expert Tips

• Cheese and air don’t mix: Always ensure that your cheese is sealed tightly to prevent air exposure, which will dry it out or make it go off faster.
• Room temperature serving: Cheese tastes best when it’s not ice-cold. If you’re planning to serve cheese, let it sit out for 30-60 minutes to reach room temperature before serving. It will bring out the flavors.
• For cut cheeses, rewrap: Whenever you cut into a block of cheese, wrap the cut edge in wax paper to minimize air exposure. Then, put it in a resealable bag or airtight container.
• Monitor humidity: Some cheeses, especially soft ones, need a bit of extra humidity to stay fresh. You can put a damp paper towel in the storage container to help maintain that moisture level.

FAQs

Can Cheese Go Bad If Left Out?

Yes, cheese can go bad if left out at room temperature for too long. Most cheeses should not be left out for more than 2 hours, as bacteria and mold can develop, which can lead to spoilage.

How Do I Know If Cheese Has Gone Bad?

You can tell if cheese has gone bad by checking for signs such as an off smell, discoloration, mold growth (especially on soft cheeses), or a slimy texture. Hard cheeses may also develop cracks or become overly dry when spoiled.

Can Cheese Go Bad In The Fridge?

Yes, cheese can go bad in the fridge, especially if it is not properly stored. Soft cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta spoil more quickly than hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan. Always store cheese in an airtight container or tightly wrapped to prevent exposure to air and moisture.

How Long Can Cheese Last In The Fridge?

The shelf life of cheese depends on the type. Hard cheeses can last up to 6 months in the fridge, while softer cheeses typically last 1-2 weeks. Always check the sell-by date and observe any changes in texture, appearance, or smell.

Does Cheese Spoil Faster If It’s Opened?

Yes, once cheese is opened, its shelf life decreases. Air exposure speeds up the process of bacterial growth and mold development. It’s important to reseal or wrap the cheese tightly to extend its freshness.

Can I Eat Cheese That Has Mold On It?

It depends on the type of cheese. Hard cheeses can be salvaged by cutting away the moldy section, while soft cheeses should be discarded if mold is present, as the mold can spread throughout the cheese.

Can Cheese Go Bad If Frozen?

Yes, cheese can go bad if frozen for long periods, although freezing can extend its shelf life. Freezing can alter the texture of most cheeses, making them crumbly or watery upon thawing. It’s best to freeze hard cheeses for longer storage.

What Is The Best Way To Store Cheese?

To store cheese properly, wrap it in wax paper, parchment paper, or plastic wrap, and then place it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Hard cheeses should be wrapped in a way that prevents them from drying out, while soft cheeses need to be kept moist but sealed to avoid bacterial contamination.

Can Cheese Be Eaten Past Its Expiration Date?

While cheese can often be safe to eat a little past its expiration date, it depends on the type and condition of the cheese. Hard cheeses tend to last longer, while soft cheeses should be checked more carefully for signs of spoilage.

Why Does Cheese Smell Bad When It Goes Bad?

When cheese spoils, bacteria break down proteins and fats, producing foul-smelling compounds like ammonia and sulfur. These compounds contribute to the characteristic sour or rotten smell of spoiled cheese.