Feta cheese is a versatile and flavorful cheese that is popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is made from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk and has a tangy and salty taste that adds an extra dimension to many dishes.
Feta cheese is a staple in many households, but it can sometimes be challenging to know how long it will last before it spoils. As with any food, feta cheese can go bad if it is not stored correctly or if it is past its expiration date.
How Long Does Feta Cheese Last?
Unopened feta cheese that is sold in vacuum-sealed packaging can last up to several months in the refrigerator, while feta cheese that is sold in brine can last up to several weeks.
What happens if you eat expired Feta cheese?
Consuming expired food is not recommended, the good news is that the chances of getting seriously ill from eating expired feta cheese are relatively low. However, if consumed past the expiration date, the cheese may cause:
- Stomach discomfort
- Nausea, and
- Digestive issues.
Therefore, it is important to always check the expiration date on food products and discard any that have expired.
How long can Feta cheese stay open?
Once opened, feta cheese should be stored in the refrigerator and can last for up to two weeks. It is best to keep feta cheese in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap to help prolong its freshness.
How to tell if Feta cheese have gone bad?
There are a few signs to look out for to determine if feta cheese has gone bad:
- Appearance: Look for any mold growth on the surface of the cheese. Mold can appear as fuzzy spots or a greenish-blue discoloration. If you see mold, it’s best to discard the cheese.
- Smell: Give the feta cheese a sniff. If it has a strong, unpleasant odor, it may be spoiled.
- Texture: If the feta cheese feels slimy or excessively wet, it could be a sign of spoilage.
- Taste: Finally, if you notice an off or sour taste, it is an indication that the feta cheese has gone bad.
If any of these signs are present, it is recommended to discard the feta cheese to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.
What do spoiled Feta cheese taste like?
Spoiled feta cheese typically develops an off or sour taste. It may taste sour, tangy, or even bitter. The flavor can be quite strong and unpleasant, distinct from the usual salty and tangy taste of fresh feta cheese.
If you taste any unusual or unpleasant flavors, it’s best to discard the cheese to avoid any potential health risks.
What makes Feta cheese go bad?
Several factors can contribute to feta cheese going bad:
- Moisture: Feta cheese is typically stored in brine to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. If the brine dries up or evaporates, it can lead to the cheese losing moisture and becoming dry and crumbly.
- Temperature: Feta cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). Exposure to higher temperatures can promote the growth of bacteria, such as listeria, that can cause foodborne illnesses.
- Air exposure: Feta cheese, like other soft cheeses, is susceptible to air exposure. Oxygen exposure can lead to the growth of molds and spoilage bacteria on the surface of the cheese, causing it to spoil faster.
- Cross-contamination: If feta cheese comes into contact with other spoiled foods or contaminated surfaces, it can introduce bacteria or mold that can cause the cheese to spoil more quickly.
It’s important to handle feta cheese properly, store it in the appropriate conditions, and check for any signs of spoilage to ensure it stays fresh and safe to consume.
Should Feta cheese be refrigerated?
it is recommended to refrigerate feta cheese. Feta is a soft cheese, and like other soft cheeses, it is perishable and can spoil quickly if left at room temperature for too long. To maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage, you should store feta cheese in the refrigerator.
It’s important to store feta cheese properly in the refrigerator to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Feta cheese should be kept in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
What is the best way to keep Feta cheese fresh?
The best way to keep feta cheese fresh is to store it properly in the refrigerator. Here are some tips:
- Keep it in brine: Feta cheese is traditionally stored in brine, which helps keep it moist and prevents it from drying out. If your feta cheese comes packaged in brine, make sure to store it in the brine. The brine helps preserve the freshness and flavor of the cheese.
- Use an airtight container: If the original packaging of the feta cheese doesn’t provide an airtight seal, transfer the cheese to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will help prevent air exposure and slow down the spoilage process.
- Store in the refrigerator: Keep feta cheese in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). The cold temperature helps slow down the growth of bacteria and maintain the quality of the cheese. Avoid storing feta cheese in the refrigerator door as it is subject to temperature fluctuations.
- Check for signs of spoilage: Regularly check the feta cheese for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, slimy appearance, mold growth, or an unusual texture. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the cheese.
- Consume within a reasonable timeframe: Feta cheese is best consumed within a few days of opening the package, even when stored properly. Make sure to check the package for any specific recommendations on shelf life.
By following these tips, you can help prolong the freshness of your feta cheese and ensure its quality when you consume it.
