All About Plant-based cheese
Your complete guide to plant-based cheese - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Plant-based cheese Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for plant-based 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.
freezer2-4 months for best quality, safe indefinitely beyond that but quality may degrade.
Signs of Spoilage
Freezer burn (dry, discolored patches), significant textural changes (crumbly, mealy, watery upon thawing), off-flavors (after thawing).
How to Check
Visual inspection: Check for freezer burn, which appears as dry, grayish, or brownish spots. Texture test (after thawing): Thawed cheese may be crumbly, watery, or mealy. Taste test (after thawing): Should still taste as expected, not rancid or 'off'.
Storage Tips
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe bag/container, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date. Freezing can alter the texture, making it more crumbly or mealy, so it's best suited for cooking applications (e.g., sauces, casseroles, melting) rather than slicing or eating raw after thawing. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator.
unopened fridgeFollow 'Best By' or 'Use By' date, typically 1-3 months for block/shredded, 2-4 weeks for soft/spreads.
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging or leaking package, strong off-odor detectable through the packaging, visible mold (rare if sealed and intact).
How to Check
Always check the 'Best By' or 'Use By' date. Visually inspect the packaging for any damage, swelling, or leaks. While rare, if the seal seems compromised, a faint 'off' smell might be detectable.
Storage Tips
Always prioritize the manufacturer's date. Store in the coldest part of your refrigerator. Do not purchase if packaging is damaged or bulging.
opened fridge5-10 days, depending on the type (softer varieties spoil faster).
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (green, white, black, fuzzy spots), slimy or gummy texture, strong sour, yeasty, or 'off' odor, significant discoloration (darker or unusual colors).
How to Check
Visual inspection: Look for any mold growth, unusual colors, or excessive moisture/sliminess. Smell test: Sniff for sour, rancid, putrid, or generally unpleasant odors. Touch test: Feel for sliminess, stickiness, or an unusually hard/dry texture that wasn't present when fresh.
Storage Tips
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, parchment paper, or store in an airtight container to prevent drying out and absorbing fridge odors. For block or sliced cheeses, consider placing a small piece of paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture. Discard if any spoilage signs are present; do not attempt to cut off mold, as spores can be invisible and spread throughout.
room temperature (serving/short-term)2-4 hours.
Signs of Spoilage
Excessive softening, oil separation (more than usual), slight souring (if left out for many hours, especially in warm conditions).
How to Check
Visual inspection: Look for excessive oil pooling or significant change in texture (very mushy). Smell test: A very faint 'off' smell might develop after extended periods, but unlikely within the safe window.
Storage Tips
Bringing plant-based cheese to room temperature for 15-30 minutes before serving can enhance its flavor and texture. However, promptly return any unused portions to the refrigerator after serving to maintain freshness and safety. Avoid leaving out for more than 2-4 hours, especially in warm environments, to prevent potential spoilage, even if plant-based cheeses are generally less prone to rapid bacterial growth than dairy.