Shelf Life Tips
- How long does fresh mozzarella cheese last? The exact answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep the cheese refrigerated at all times.
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To maximize the shelf life of fresh mozzarella cheese after opening, wrap the original packaging tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil; for even better results, wrap the cheese first in wax or parchment paper and then cover with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
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Properly stored, fresh mozzarella cheese will last about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
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If fresh mozzarella cheese has mold on it, is it still safe to eat? If mold appears on the fresh mozzarella cheese, discard it entirely.
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To further extend the shelf life of fresh mozzarella cheese, freeze it; when freezing, place the cheese in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed.
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Frozen cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavor; the thawed fresh mozzarella cheese will be best suited to cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups and casseroles.
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To freeze fresh mozzarella cheese: Cut the cheese into portions no larger than 1/2 pound each, and wrap tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place inside a heavy-duty freezer bag.
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How long does fresh mozzarella cheese last in the freezer? Properly stored, fresh mozzarella cheese will maintain best quality for about 6 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - fresh mozzarella cheese that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long does fresh mozzarella cheese last after being frozen and thawed? Fresh mozzarella cheese that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator before using; fresh mozzarella cheese that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be used immediately.
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How can you tell if fresh mozzarella cheese is bad or spoiled? Fresh mozzarella cheese that is going bad typically will develop an off smell; if mold appears on the fresh mozzarella cheese, discard it entirely.
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