Does Parmesan Cheese Go Bad?: Parmesan is an Italian brand of hard cheese that has a long shelf life! However this does not mean that parmesan cheese will last forever, eventually, it will become rancid or dry out at some point. So if you have got parmesan cheese in large quantities, as long as the product is stored properly, there is no need to worry about spoilage.
The article gives you a complete answer to the question: Does parmesan cheese go bad? If you intend to learn a few things related to its storage, shelf life, and going bad with parmesan, this article is for you. The article gives you a complete idea of the various methods to store parmesan cheese.
- Can Parmesan Cheese Go Bad?
- Signs that Parmesan Cheese Has Gone Bad
- How to Store Parmesan Cheese?
- How Long Does Parmesan Cheese Last?
- Can You Freeze Parmesan Cheese?
- The Risk of Consuming Expired Parmesan Cheese
- How do identify if parmesan cheese has gone bad?
- Is it possible to freeze Parmesan Cheese?
- Does parmesan cheese go bad?
Can Parmesan Cheese Go Bad?
Yes, if not stored properly, parmesan cheese can go bad. Generally, hard cheeses like Parmesan cheese will last much longer than soft cheese. Parmesan has a longer shelf life because of the reduced level of moisture within the product. This in turn reduces moisture and prevents mold growth. Even if a small area of the cheese turns moldy, you can still eat it. Just cut away that section of cheese and store the rest of the cheese.
The shelf life of parmesan cheese also depends on the storage conditions. Grated parmesan cheese has a longer life than parmesan cheese stored in blocks.
Signs that Parmesan Cheese Has Gone Bad
Look out for the following signs to know if the cheese has gone bad. They are along the lines
- Mold Growth: To see if parmesan cheese has gone bad, firstly look out for the presence of mold.
If you spot one or two, cut the moldy bits away. If mold covers the entire cheese block, it’s time to get rid of it. - Colour: A change in color of the cheese slice is also an indication that the cheese has gone bad.
If the parmesan cheese turns to a shade of dark yellow or grey, it is no longer safe to eat. - Foul Smell: Coming to identifying its smell, if the cheese emits a moldy or stale smell, it’s gone bad.
- Stale Taste: In addition to the smell, if the parmesan cheese tastes sour or stale, it’s time to throw it away.
See Similar Articles:
How to Store Parmesan Cheese?
Parmesan cheese can be stored in the following manner:
- Parmesan blocks can be stored in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature would be between 39 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Covering the blocks in cling wrap or aluminum foil before storing the cheese in the fridge is also good.
- Alternatively, airtight containers can also be used to store parmesan cheese.
- An unopened box of parmesan cheese can be stored either in a refrigerated or unrefrigerated manner.
How Long Does Parmesan Cheese Last?
An unopened box of parmesan cheese will last for 7 to 9 months. A block of parmesan cheese will last for a couple of months past its expiry date if stored properly. If you shred or grate it, it will last for a week in a container in the fridge. Coming to store-bought grated or shredded parm, it’s best to see the guidelines on the label.
Can You Freeze Parmesan Cheese?
Is freezing Parmesan Cheese a way to extend its shelf life? Freezing is usually not required as parmesan cheese has a long life. However, if needed you can freeze the cheese. The freezing temperature can result in a decrease in the quality of the cheese. The cheese may also lose its original texture and a bit of flavor as soon as it is frozen. However, the best way to freeze parmesan cheese is to freeze it grated.
Check out our article on Can You Freeze Parmesan Cheese to understand better whether is it safe to do so or not from here.
The Risk of Consuming Expired Parmesan Cheese
Molds present in parmesan cheese can be of different types. Some of these are harmless, while others may cause respiratory issues or allergic reactions. Molds sometimes carry harmful bacteria, including Coli, Salmonella, Listeria, and Brucella. Consuming such cheese will result in food poisoning, followed by Stomach Pain, Vomiting, and Diarrhea.
FAQs on Does Parmesan Cheese Go Bad
1. How do identify if parmesan cheese has gone bad?
There are different methods to know if that cheese has gone bad. The presence of mold and changes in color, smell, and taste will help you identify if the mold has gone bad.
2. Is it possible to freeze Parmesan Cheese?
Freezing is usually not required as parmesan cheese has a long life. However, if needed you can freeze the cheese.
3. Does parmesan cheese go bad?
Yes, Storing parmesan cheese for a long time can result in mold growth. If the whole cheese block is filled with mold, then it means that the slice is not fit for consumption.
Conclusion
Parmesan is a hard cheese that has a long shelf life when stored appropriately. The appropriate way to store parmesan cheese depends on the type you use and the method of packing. However, the best option is to put the package in the fridge. Freezing parmesan cheese is also advised when you plan to use it for soups, pizza toppings, and pasta. However, make sure not to consume parmesan cheese which has gone bad! Bookmark our site to get updates on Can You Freeze Ricotta Cheese, etc.