Can Goat Cheese Go Bad : What You MUST Know

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In this guide, we’re diving deep into the life cycle of goat cheese-from its shelf life and signs of spoilage to the best ways to keep it fresh. So whether you’ve got a wedge in the fridge or you’re about to pick up a fresh batch, we’ll give you the insights you need to handle goat cheese with care and avoid any surprises.

Can Goat Cheese Go Bad?

Yes, goat cheese can go bad. While it has a relatively short shelf life compared to some hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan, goat cheese can still last for a good amount of time if stored properly. However, just like any dairy product, it’s susceptible to spoilage due to bacterial growth, mold development, and the natural breakdown of fats and proteins over time.

Here are a few factors that can cause goat cheese to go bad:

• Exposure to Air: Oxygen can cause the fats in goat cheese to oxidize, leading to off flavors and faster spoilage.
• Temperature Fluctuations: Storing goat cheese in conditions that are too warm or too cold can accelerate spoilage.
• Moisture: Goat cheese can absorb moisture, which may encourage mold growth, especially if it’s improperly sealed.
• Contamination: Any bacteria from utensils or other foods can introduce contaminants that cause the cheese to spoil.

While it might not turn into a science experiment overnight, understanding the factors that contribute to spoilage is key to keeping goat cheese at its peak freshness.

Shelf Life For Goat Cheese

The shelf life of goat cheese varies depending on several factors, including its form (fresh, aged, or semi-aged), storage conditions, and whether it’s opened or unopened. Let’s break it down:

• Unopened Goat Cheese (Fresh or Aged): If kept in its original packaging and stored properly in the fridge, an unopened package of goat cheese can typically last anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months past its sell-by date. Fresh goat cheese generally has a shorter shelf life than aged varieties because it’s higher in moisture.
• Opened Goat Cheese: Once you’ve opened a package of goat cheese, it’s best to consume it within 1 week to 10 days. After opening, the exposure to air and handling increases the likelihood of spoilage, so it’s important to use it quickly.
• Aged Goat Cheese: Aged goat cheeses, such as those with a firm or semi-firm texture, have a longer shelf life. They can last up to 3 weeks after being opened if properly stored.
• Goat Cheese in Brine or Oil: If your goat cheese comes preserved in brine or oil, it can last longer-around 1 to 2 months-thanks to the preservative qualities of the brine or oil.

In all cases, you should rely on the ’use by’ dates provided by the manufacturer for the best quality, but proper storage can extend the life of your cheese beyond those initial timeframes.

Common Signs Of Spoilage

Knowing how to identify when your goat cheese has gone bad is crucial to avoid eating spoiled food. Here are the most common signs of spoilage to watch out for:

Unpleasant Odor

• Fresh goat cheese has a slightly tangy, earthy smell. If the cheese starts to develop a rancid or sour odor-one that’s sharp or overly pungent-it’s a clear sign that bacteria have begun to break it down.
• An ammonia-like smell is also a strong indicator that it’s gone bad.

Color Changes

• While goat cheese is typically white or pale cream in color, any significant color changes, like turning yellow or brown, suggest it’s no longer fresh.
• The presence of green, black, or fuzzy mold is another sign of spoilage (although, if it’s a small amount of mold, you may be able to cut it off and still use the rest of the cheese).

Slimy Or Watery Texture

• Fresh goat cheese should have a smooth, slightly crumbly texture. If it becomes slimy or excessively wet, that’s usually a sign of over-ripening or bacterial growth.
• Goat cheese in oil or brine may develop a slimy texture due to the separation of oils or brine, but this does not always indicate spoilage.

Off-Taste

• A spoiled goat cheese will taste sour, tangy, or overly fermented in an unpleasant way. If the cheese tastes significantly different from its usual flavor profile, it’s time to toss it.

Hard Or Crumbly Texture (in Fresh Cheese)

• Fresh goat cheese should be soft, spreadable, and moist. If it becomes overly hard or crumbly, that’s a sign that it’s past its prime.

How To Store Goat Cheese?

To maximize the freshness and lifespan of goat cheese, proper storage is essential. Here are some tips to keep your cheese in top shape:

Wrap It Well

• Goat cheese should be tightly wrapped in wax paper, parchment paper, or plastic wrap. If you leave it exposed to air, it will dry out and lose its flavor.
• If your goat cheese comes in a sealed container, make sure the lid is secure to prevent air from getting in.

Use An Airtight Container

• Once opened, place the goat cheese in an airtight container to minimize exposure to oxygen and contaminants. This helps preserve its moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Store In The Fridge

• Always store goat cheese in the refrigerator to slow bacterial growth and keep it fresh longer. It should be placed in the main part of the fridge, not the door, where temperatures fluctuate too much.

Goat Cheese In Brine Or Oil

• If your goat cheese comes in brine or oil, make sure it’s fully submerged to avoid exposure to air, which can lead to spoilage.
• Keep the jar sealed tightly and stored in the fridge to prevent the cheese from going bad prematurely.

Freezing Goat Cheese (Last Resort)

• While not ideal due to the risk of texture changes, you can freeze goat cheese if necessary. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
• Thaw frozen goat cheese in the fridge and use it in cooked dishes where texture changes are less noticeable.

Expert Tips

• Check the Sell-By Date: Always keep track of the expiration or ’sell-by’ date. Don’t consume goat cheese too far past this date unless it’s been stored properly.
• Avoid Contaminating Your Cheese: Never touch your goat cheese with dirty hands or utensils. Use a clean knife or fork to cut off the portion you need, as this can introduce bacteria that leads to faster spoilage.
• Don’t Mix Old and New Cheese: If you have both old and new goat cheese, keep them separate. Mixing them could cause the older cheese to spoil faster.
• Smell Test: Trust your nose! If goat cheese starts to develop an off or sour smell, it’s better to err on the side of caution and discard it.

FAQs

Can Goat Cheese Go Bad If Left Out At Room Temperature?

Yes, goat cheese can go bad if left out at room temperature for extended periods. It should not be left out for more than 2 hours, as bacteria can grow, leading to spoilage.

How Long Can Goat Cheese Last In The Fridge?

Unopened goat cheese can typically last for 2 to 3 weeks past its expiration date when stored properly in the fridge. Once opened, it should be consumed within 1 to 2 weeks for the best quality.

What Are The Signs That Goat Cheese Has Gone Bad?

Signs that goat cheese has gone bad include a sour or off smell, a slimy or moldy texture, and changes in color. If the cheese appears excessively dry or discolored, it’s also a sign it may have spoiled.

Can Mold On Goat Cheese Be Dangerous?

Mold that is not part of the cheese’s intended rind or aging process should not be consumed. If mold forms on goat cheese, it’s safest to discard the affected portion, as consuming mold can cause illness.

Does Goat Cheese Go Bad Faster Than Other Cheeses?

Yes, goat cheese tends to spoil more quickly than harder cheeses like cheddar or parmesan. Its higher moisture content and the nature of its aging process make it more susceptible to bacterial growth and spoilage.

How Should Goat Cheese Be Stored To Prevent It From Going Bad?

Goat cheese should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and kept in the fridge. To prevent drying out, it can also be submerged in brine or olive oil for preservation.

Can Goat Cheese Go Bad After Being Frozen?

Freezing goat cheese can cause changes in texture and may affect the flavor. While it won’t technically go bad after freezing, the quality can be compromised. If you freeze goat cheese, it’s best to use it in cooked dishes.

Can You Eat Goat Cheese Past The Expiration Date?

You can eat goat cheese past its expiration date if it shows no signs of spoilage (such as unusual odor or mold) and has been stored properly. However, it is always safer to consume cheese before the expiration date for the best flavor and quality.

How Long Does Goat Cheese Last After Opening?

Once opened, goat cheese typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge, depending on its freshness when opened. It’s important to check for any visible signs of spoilage during this time.

What Should You Do If You Accidentally Ate Spoiled Goat Cheese?

If you suspect you’ve eaten spoiled goat cheese and feel ill, monitor for symptoms such as stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea. If symptoms persist, it’s advisable to seek medical advice.