Shelf Life Tips
- How long does an opened package of shredded Colby cheese last in the fridge? The exact answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep shredded Colby cheese refrigerated at all times.
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To maximize the shelf life of shredded Colby cheese after opening, tightly seal original packaging or place the cheese in resealable plastic bags or airtight containers.
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Properly stored, an opened package of shredded Colby cheese will last for about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator.
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Once the package is opened, consume or freeze the shredded Colby cheese within the time shown for refrigeration, even if the "Best By," "Best if Used By," or "Use By" date has not yet been reached.
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How long can shredded Colby cheese be left at room temperature? Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F; shredded Colby cheese should be discarded if left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.
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To further extend the shelf life of opened shredded Colby cheese, freeze it; when freezing, place shredded Colby cheese in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed.
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Frozen Colby cheese may lose some of its texture and flavor; the thawed cheese will be best suited to cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups and casseroles.
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To freeze shredded Colby cheese, tightly seal original packaging and place in freezer; if freezing for longer than 2 months, place package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag in order to prevent freezer burn.
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How long does shredded Colby cheese last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 8 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - shredded Colby cheese that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How can you tell if shredded Colby cheese is bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the cheese: if cheese develops an off odor, flavor or appearance, it should be discarded; if mold appears, discard all of the shredded Colby cheese.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
