All About Cheese
Your complete guide to cheese - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Cheese Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for cheese in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
freezer (suitable cheeses)3-6 months
Signs of Spoilage
Freezer burn (dry, discolored spots), significant texture change (crumbly, mealy after thawing), strong off-flavor (though usually not 'spoiled' in the microbial sense, quality degrades).
How to Check
Visually inspect for freezer burn. Note texture changes after thawing (it will be more crumbly). Taste a small piece to assess flavor degradation.
Storage Tips
Freezing often changes the texture of cheese, making it more crumbly. It's best for cooking applications (sauces, casseroles) rather than slicing or eating fresh. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or use freezer bags, expelling as much air as possible. Shredded cheese freezes particularly well. Thaw in the refrigerator.
at room temperature (short-term for serving)2-4 hours (maximum)
Signs of Spoilage
None in this short timeframe, but extended time at room temperature significantly increases bacterial growth risk.
How to Check
N/A for spoilage, but if left out longer than 4 hours, it should be discarded for food safety reasons, especially soft cheeses.
Storage Tips
Cheese is best served at room temperature to enhance its flavor and aroma. However, never leave cheese out for more than 4 hours total, especially soft or fresh cheeses, due to potential food safety risks. Promptly re-refrigerate any unused portions.
opened hard/semi-hard cheese (fridge)3-4 weeks for blocks; 1-2 weeks for shredded
Signs of Spoilage
Fuzzy, discolored mold (green, black, pink, blue – any color not part of the original cheese), strong sour or ammonia smell, excessively hard and crumbly (beyond normal), slimy film on the surface. For hard cheese, small, isolated mold spots can sometimes be cut off.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold. Perform a sniff test for off-odors. Touch test for sliminess. If mold is present on hard cheese, carefully cut at least 1 inch around and below the moldy spot. Discard if mold is widespread or penetrates deeply. Discard shredded cheese with any mold.
Storage Tips
To extend freshness, re-wrap tightly. For blocks, use parchment paper first, then plastic wrap, or store in an airtight container. Avoid direct plastic wrap for long periods as it can trap moisture. For shredded, ensure the bag is sealed well or transfer to an airtight container.
opened soft/fresh cheese (fridge)3-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Any fuzzy, discolored mold (any color), strong sour, yeasty, or ammonia smell, extremely watery or slimy texture, significant discoloration (yellowing, pinkish).
How to Check
Visually inspect for any mold growth or discoloration. Perform a sniff test for strong off-odors. Touch test for sliminess or an overly watery consistency.
Storage Tips
These are highly perishable once opened. Discard at the first sign of spoilage. Do NOT attempt to cut mold off soft cheeses; mold spores can spread throughout. Store in airtight containers to prevent drying out and absorption of other fridge odors.
unopened hard/semi-hard cheese (fridge)2-6 months (harder cheeses last longer)
Signs of Spoilage
Visible fuzzy mold (beyond any intentional rind), strong ammonia or sour smell, slimy texture, significant discoloration (e.g., pink, green, dark yellow).
How to Check
Visually inspect for any unexpected mold growth or discoloration. Perform a sniff test for off-odors. Check the texture for any sliminess.
Storage Tips
The original packaging provides excellent protection. Always check the 'best by' or 'use by' date. Harder cheeses generally have a longer shelf life.
unopened soft/fresh cheese (fridge)1-4 weeks (fresh cheeses are shorter, always check 'best by' date)
Signs of Spoilage
Fuzzy, discolored mold (any color, not intentional rind), strong sour, yeasty, or 'off' smell, excessively watery or slimy texture, yellowing or pinkish discoloration.
How to Check
Visually inspect for any mold or significant discoloration. Perform a sniff test for strong sour or yeasty odors. Touch test for sliminess or unusual texture changes.
Storage Tips
These cheeses have higher moisture content and are more perishable. Always adhere strictly to 'best by' dates. Store in the coldest part of your refrigerator.