Expiration & Storage Tips
When does part skim mozzarella cheese expire?
Unopened part skim mozzarella cheese can last for about three to four weeks in the refrigerator beyond the sell-by date. Once opened, you can still safely enjoy it for about one to two weeks if stored in the fridge. If frozen, it can extend the lifespan up to six months. Always check the packaging dates and keep track if you’ve opened it or not.
How do you tell if part skim mozzarella cheese is bad?
Recognizing spoiled part skim mozzarella cheese is pretty straightforward. First, look out for any noticeable changes in color. If your cheese has turned a deep yellow or has mold (in any color other than white, which could just be cheese bloom), it's probably gone bad. Second, the smell will change. Cheese naturally has a milky, somewhat sour aroma, but if it smells overtly sour or even slightly ammonia-like, it's time to toss it. Lastly, touch it gently - if it's become excessively slimy or hard, it is not safe to eat.
Tips for storing part skim mozzarella cheese to extend shelf life
• Always store your cheese in the fridge, ideally in the cheese drawer which maintains a slightly higher temperature, perfect for cheese preservation.
• Don't wrap your cheese in plastic wrap after it's been opened. Instead, use wax paper, parchment paper, or cheese paper and then put it in a partially sealed plastic bag. This will allow it to remain breathable but not dry out.
• If you have a large quantity of cheese, consider freezing part of it. Just remember, freezing might change the texture and make it crumblier, so it's best to use frozen cheese for cooked dishes.
• To defrost frozen part skim mozzarella cheese, just move it to the fridge 24 hours before plan to use it. This will allow it to thaw slowly, maintaining its texture better.