Shelf Life Tips
- How long does cottage cheese last once opened? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - to maximize the shelf life of opened cottage cheese, keep it refrigerated at all times.
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To maximize the shelf life of cottage cheese after opening, keep refrigerated and tightly covered, either in the original packaging or in an airtight container.
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Properly stored, an opened package of cottage cheese will generally last for about 7 to 10 days after opening, assuming it has been continuously refrigerated.
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How long can cottage cheese be left at room temperature? Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F; cottage 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 cottage cheese, freeze it: to freeze cottage cheese, place inside covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
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Uncreamed (dry) cottage cheese freezes better than creamed cottage cheese, which may become too mushy after freezing.
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Frozen cottage cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavor; the thawed cottage cheese will be best suited to cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups and casseroles.
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How long does cottage cheese last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 3 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - cottage cheese that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long does cottage cheese last after being frozen and thawed? Cottage cheese that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator before using; cottage cheese that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be used immediately.
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When frozen cottage cheese is thawed, there may be some liquid at the top of the container; simply stir it back into the cheese.
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How can you tell if cottage cheese is bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the cottage cheese: if cottage cheese turns yellow or develops an off odor or flavor, it should be discarded for quality purposes; if mold appears, discard the entire package.
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