Feta cheese is a tangy, crumbly cheese that amps salads, soups, and more. When you buy a pack of one, you often wonder how long does feta cheese last? We are here to resolve your quest and answer any questions.
Feta cheese can be stored in two ways: as leftover blocks or crumbled feta and submerged in the brine. The cheese can remain fresh in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days when stored as spare blocks or crumbled feta. The cheese can stay fresh for about a month when stored in brine.
Feta cheese is made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It has a unique tangy and salty taste that many love and is a versatile ingredient.
It is primarily used in topping desserts, salads, and sandwiches. However, because it is a perishable product, it does have an expiry date.
In this blog, we will reveal all the details about the shelf life of feta cheese. Also, we will be covering storage tips and learning to see the spoilage signs. So, let’s get started.
How Long Does Feta Cheese Last?
| Feta Cheese External Factors | Fridge |
|---|---|
| Feta block in brine (unopened) | 2 – 4 Weeks |
| Crumbled feta (unopened) | 1 Week |
| Crumbled feta (unopened) | 5 – 7 days |
| Feta leftovers (submerged in brine) | 4 Weeks |
If you have purchased feta cheese, you might wonder how long it lasts. Well, the shelf life of feta cheese depends on various factors, such as the type, whether it’s unopened or opened, and how it’s stored.
Let’s start with the unopened Feta block in brine. Feta cheese in a block with brine can last for up to 2 to 4 weeks if kept in the refrigerator. The brine helps preserve the cheese, so it’s essential only to remove it once you are ready to use it.
Once you open the package, the feta cheese should be consumed within 5-7 days. If you have unopened crumbled feta cheese, it can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Keeping it in an airtight container is essential to prevent it from drying out.
If you have leftover feta cheese not submerged in brine, it can last up to a week in the refrigerator. On the other hand, if the leftover feta cheese is submerged in brine, it can last for up to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.
To ensure that your feta cheese stays fresh for longer, it’s best to store it in brine. This will help preserve the cheese and prevent it from drying out or growing mold.
How To Know When Feta Cheese Go Bad?
There are some signs of spoilage which will indicate if feta cheese has gone wrong. Here I have listed some spoilage signs that you should consider:
1. Mold
One of the first signs that feta cheese may be going wrong is the presence of mold. If you see any mold growing on the surface of the cheese, it’s best to discard the cheese. It is because mold can produce toxins that can make you sick.
2. Discoloration
Discolorations can also be an indicator that the feta cheese has gone bad. If you notice any yellow or brown spots on the cheese, it’s best to throw it away. This can indicate that the cheese has been contaminated with bacteria or other microorganisms.
3. Smell
The smell of feta cheese can also indicate that it has gone wrong. Fresh feta cheese has a tangy and salty aroma. If the cheese has an off odor, it’s best to throw it away.
4. Change In Texture
Changes in texture can also indicate that feta cheese has gone wrong. If the cheese feels slimy, mushy, or oozing liquid, it’s time to throw it out. These changes in texture can be a sign that the cheese has been contaminated with bacteria.
One thing to note is that the shelf life of feta cheese can vary depending on various factors, including how it was stored, the temperature it was held, and whether it was opened or not.
So, the next part will tell you how you can store feta cheese in the best manner.
Storage Of Feta Cheese
It’s disappointing to find your feta cheese has gone wrong. Therefore, it’s essential to learn the storage techniques for feta cheese. I have listed a few tips that will help you keep your feta cheese fresh for longer.
1. Storing Feta Cheese Blocks
If you have a block of feta cheese, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can wrap it in wax paper or aluminum foil and place it in a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. It will help prevent the cheese from drying out and absorbing any odors in the fridge.
2. Storing Crumbled Feta Cheese
Crumbled feta cheese is often sold in containers and is already crumbled up for you. To store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also use a resealable plastic bag. Crumbled feta cheese will last for about a week when stored properly.
3. Storing Feta Cheese In Brine
Store feta cheese in brine is the best storage tip. Brine is a salt water solution that helps keep the cheese moist. You can keep feta cheese in the brine in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Ensure the cheese is completely submerged in the brine to prevent it from drying out. Feta cheese in brine can last up to three months when stored properly.
4. Storing Feta Cheese In Olive Oil
You can also store feta cheese in olive oil. Cut the cheese into cubes and place them in a jar to do this. Pour olive oil over the cheese until it’s completely covered. It will help keep the cheese moist and add flavor to it.
Add chili or herbs like rosemary and peppercorns to the mixture to increase the flavor. Feta cheese in olive oil can last up to two weeks when stored properly.
5. Storing Feta Cheese In Milk Bath
Storing feta cheese in a milk bath will keep the cheese moist and creamy. It’s another option if you prefer something else to the salty brine flavor of feta cheese or olive oil flavor. To do this, mix equal parts milk and water in a container and add the feta cheese.
Make sure the milk bath completely covers the cheese. Feta cheese in a milk bath can last up to a week when stored properly.
Can You Freeze Feta Cheese?
Yes! You can freeze feta cheese. Freezing feta cheese is a great way to prolong its shelf life and ensure you always have some for your favorite recipes.
When it comes to freezing feta cheese, you should keep a few things in mind. First, frozen feta cheese in blocks rather than crumbled or sliced is best. This will help preserve its texture and prevent it from becoming too crumbly or dry.
Second, it’s important not to add feta cheese to any brine or give it a milk bath before freezing it. Doing so can cause the cheese to become soggy and lose its flavor.
Instead, wrap the blocks of feta cheese in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before storing them in the freezer.
Once you’re ready to use your frozen feta cheese, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Avoid melting it at room temperature, as this can cause the cheese to become too soft and mushy.
The Risk Of Consuming Feta Cheese That Has Gone Bad
It’s essential to be mindful of the risks associated with consuming feta cheese that has gone bad. When feta cheese goes wrong, it can harbor harmful bacteria like Listeria. Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness, particularly harmful to pregnant women.
If a pregnant woman consumes feta cheese that has gone bad and contains Listeria, it could lead to serious health complications for both the woman and her unborn child. It is because Listeria can cross the placenta and infect the fetus, leading to listeriosis.
An expired feta cheese causes fever, muscle aches, and diarrhea, which can be particularly severe in people with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses.
To stay safe, always check your feta cheese’s expiration date and ensure it’s fresh.
Conclusion
In this blog, we answered that the shelf life of feta cheese, when stored in block form, stays fresh for a week. When you store the feta cheese in brine, it can stay fresh for up to 1 month.
To ensure your feta cheese stays fresh for as long as possible, there are five techniques you can use to store it. These include storing feta cheese blocks and crumbled form in the fridge, in brine, in a milk bath, and in olive oil.
By following these storage techniques, you can extend the shelf life of your feta cheese and avoid wasting any of this delicious cheese. So, next time you buy feta cheese, store it properly and savor the flavors you enjoy the most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does opened feta cheese last in the refrigerator?
Opened feta cheese can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator if appropriately stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze feta cheese to make it last longer?
Yes, you can freeze feta cheese to make it last longer. It can last up to three to four months in the freezer, but it may lose some texture and flavor.
How can I tell if feta cheese has gone bad?
If feta cheese goes wrong, it will have a sour smell and a slimy texture. It may also have mold growing on it. If you notice any of these signs, throwing away the cheese is best.
How long does unopened feta cheese last?
Unopened feta cheese can last for two to four weeks in the refrigerator, but it’s best to check the expiration date on the packaging.
