Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar cheese, unopened, can last from 3 to 6 months past the printed date on the package if stored in the refrigerator. Once opened, it is safe to consume up to 3 weeks if stored in refrigerator. If frozen, it can last for about 6 months. Be sure to tightly wrap and seal the cheese before freezing to prevent loss of moisture and flavor. After it has been frozen, expect a change in texture, it might be more crumbly and less creamy, but it can still be used for cooking.

When sharp cheddar cheese has gone bad, you might notice a strong sour smell that differs from it's usually pungent odor. It can develop molds which can come in varying colors - green, blue, or even red, and will look discolored or blotchy. If there's just a small bit of mold, you can cut it off - cheese is a fermented food and small amounts of surface mold is common and can be safely removed. However, if the cheese is overly moldy or has been contaminated with a non-edible mold, it's best to discard it.

• Be sure to keep your cheese wrapped in a cheese paper or wax paper, not in plastic wrap. This allows the cheese to breathe and prevents it from getting too moist. • Store it in a warmer part of your refrigerator. The vegetable drawer is usually a good spot. • If your cheese dries out, you can re-hydrate it by wrapping it in a damp cloth and then in a piece of foil. Leave it in the fridge for a couple of days. • If you don't have cheese paper, you can wrap it in parchment or wax paper and then put it in a partially sealed plastic bag. This offers the breathability the cheese needs while still protecting it from drying out. • If you want to freeze your cheddar cheese, shred or cut it into small pieces before freezing to make it easier to use later. Keep in mind, freezing may change the texture of your cheese and is best suitable for cheeses used in cooking.