All About Mozzarella
Your complete guide to mozzarella - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Mozzarella Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for mozzarella 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.
Opened Fresh Mozzarella (in Brine/Water) in Fridge2-5 days.
Signs of Spoilage
Brine quickly becomes cloudy or slimy; cheese becomes noticeably soft, mushy, or slimy; strong sour, pungent, or 'off' smell; visible mold.
How to Check
Visually inspect the brine and cheese for any changes in clarity, color, or texture. Smell for any strong, unpleasant odors. Touch the cheese to feel for excessive sliminess or mushiness.
Storage Tips
If not using all at once, ensure remaining mozzarella is fully submerged. If original brine is discarded, store in fresh, lightly salted cold water (change daily). Use an airtight container to prevent contamination and drying. Freezing fresh mozzarella is generally not recommended as it severely degrades texture.
Unopened Low-Moisture Mozzarella (Block/Shredded) in FridgeUntil 'Best By' or 'Use By' date, typically 1-2 months from purchase if sealed.
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (green, black, pink, or fuzzy spots), strong sour or yeasty odor, yellowish or pinkish discoloration, unusually hard or dry texture.
How to Check
Visually inspect the entire surface for mold or discoloration. Smell the package for any off-odors before opening. Check the 'Best By' date.
Storage Tips
Always store in its original, sealed packaging. Ensure the refrigerator temperature is consistently below 40°F (4°C).
Opened Low-Moisture Mozzarella (Block/Shredded) in Fridge5-7 days for block, 3-5 days for shredded.
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold, strong sour or ammonia-like smell, slimy or greasy texture, yellowish discoloration on the surface.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold or discoloration. Smell the cheese for any pungent, sour, or 'off' odors. Touch the cheese to feel for sliminess or an unusual softness/mushiness.
Storage Tips
For block mozzarella, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper, then place in an airtight container. For shredded, reseal the bag or transfer to an airtight container. This minimizes air exposure and prevents drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
Unopened Fresh Mozzarella (in Brine/Water) in FridgeUntil 'Best By' or 'Use By' date, typically 1-2 weeks from purchase. Can sometimes last a few days past the date if brine is clear.
Signs of Spoilage
Brine becomes cloudy, milky, or slimy; cheese develops a soft, mushy, or overly slimy texture; strong sour, yeasty, or ammonia-like smell; visible mold (rare but possible).
How to Check
Visually inspect the brine for clarity and the cheese for any discoloration or textural changes. Smell the brine and cheese for any pungent or 'off' odors. Gently touch the cheese to check for unusual softness or sliminess.
Storage Tips
Always keep fresh mozzarella fully submerged in its original brine or water. Do not drain until ready to use. Ensure consistent refrigeration below 40°F (4°C).
Frozen Low-Moisture Mozzarella (Block/Shredded)2-3 months for optimal quality, up to 6 months safe.
Signs of Spoilage
Severe freezer burn (large, dry, discolored patches); significant texture degradation (crumbly, watery, or rubbery after thawing); off-flavors (less common if properly frozen).
How to Check
Visually inspect for freezer burn. After thawing, check the texture; it may be softer or more crumbly. Smell for any unusual odors (should be neutral or slightly milky).
Storage Tips
For best results, grate block mozzarella before freezing. Store in heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator. Frozen mozzarella is best used in cooked dishes like pizza, lasagna, or casseroles, as its texture may be less desirable for fresh eating.