Some people claim that deli cheese is kind of not really cheese. Others say that it is merely a type of cheese that you can use in recipes. Regardless of the reason, using a slice of American real deli cheese is a great way to add a savory flavor to your dish.
But, how long is deli cheese good for? And what are the ways you can try out to ensure that your favorite cheese will last a long time?
This article will talk about the various types of deli cheese and how they can be stored. Also, we will talk about the longest-lasting qualities of these cheese products.
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How Long Does Sliced Deli Cheese Last in the Fridge?
After buying it from a deli, sliced American deli cheese can be kept refrigerated for three weeks. You can then use it after the sell-by date if it’s properly stored.
Stored American deli cheese should be kept in its original packaging upon refrigeration. It ensures that the cheese has the best shelf life.
To extend the shelf life of deli cheese, freeze it. This method will keep it fresh for a more extended time. To maximize the shelf life of your sliced American deli cheese, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in heavy-duty freezer packs.
How Long Does Vacuum Sealed Cheese Last Refrigerated?
Usually, cheese can last for up to two weeks when stored in regular containers and bags. However, you can keep it in vacuum-sealed containers for eight months when refrigerated.
The vacuum bag helps keep your food from getting contaminated by the air. It also prevents moisture from escaping. It can extend the shelf life of your food by up to five times.
Does Vacuum Sealed Cheese Go Bad?
A vacuum-sealed cheese goes bad like any other cheese. But, it lasts much longer than the ones stored regularly. It can last for up to eight months because the bacteria can’t grow due to the absence of air.
When you vacuum-seal your cheese, make sure to cover it in wax or parchment paper. It will control the moistness from getting into the cheese and causing it to deteriorate.
This method works well for storing cheese for a long time. It will not keep it forever, but it is the best way to preserve it.
Is Your Deli Cheese Off or Spoiled? Here’s How to Tell
After finding an unused cheese packet in your fridge, you probably didn’t know if it was safe to eat or not. Fortunately, some simple steps will help you determine if it’s really safe to eat.
Most spoiled deli cheese will have a strange odor similar to sour milk. It should be good if it has a sweet and creamy taste.
Its appearance can tell you if it’s terrible for American cheese. Usually, edible deli cheese has a light yellow color. However, it loses its flavor when it gets other colors like orange or white.
Spoiled Deli cheese can lose its consistency and appearance. If you notice this, throw it away. The easiest way to check the expiration date is to look through its packaging. Many people think that deli cheese can still be edible even though it’s outdated.
Different Cheese Types and How Long Do They Last?
Below are different kinds of cheeses categorized based on the family they are under:
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese tends to have a shorter shelf life than other types of cheese due to its higher moisture content. It will help if you eat it sooner to prevent bacteria from growing.
Fresh
The shelf life of fresh cheese varies depending on its type and flavor. Some include goat’s cheese, cottage cheese, and farm-produced cheese. In addition, pasta filata, a kind of curd pulled cheese, also falls into this category.
Semi-Soft
The shelf life of bloomy-rind or soft-ripened cheese varies depending on when it’s cut into pieces. These types of cheese usually have around seven to 10 days.
However, they tend to lose their moisture and become dry and moldy once cut. These are Camembert, Brie, and Triple Cremes.
Semi-Hard
The most common semi-hard cheeses aged are Tomme, Taleggio, or drunken goat. You can hold these in the fridge for up to 12 days.
Hard
Due to its lower moisture content, firmer cheese tends to have a longer shelf life than its soft-ripened counterparts. It means that it’s less prone to bacteria growth and can last up to four weeks or more. Examples are Parmigiano Reggiano, Aged Gouda, and Aged Cheddar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Can Sliced Deli Cheese Be In Refrigerator?
Sliced Deli Cheese can last for up to three weeks in the refrigerator. Once the package is open, use pre-sliced cheese within 5-7 days. If you purchase a fresh-sliced deli cheese, use it within the same timeframe.
Gruyere and gouda are two types of cheese that you can keep in a refrigerator for three weeks.
How Long Does Swiss Cheese From the Deli Last?
After defrosting, you can keep sliced Swiss deli cheese in the refrigerator for three weeks. However, it’s essential to use the cheese after removing it from the freezer immediately.
If a piece of Swiss cheese is going bad, you can determine it by its texture, appearance, and smell. Unopened Swiss cheese can also develop a strong odor and mold. Follow these instructions to remove mold from the cheese.
Do American Cheese Slices Go Bad?
American cheese slices go bad. After a piece of American deli cheese has been purchased from a local deli, you should refrigerate it for 2 to 3 weeks. The “sell-by” date on the package should expire during this period, but you should still use the cheese if stored correctly.