Shelf Life Tips
- How long does an opened package of shredded Parmesan cheese last in the fridge? The exact answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep shredded Parmesan cheese refrigerated at all times.
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To maximize the shelf life of shredded Parmesan 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 Parmesan 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 Parmesan 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 Parmesan cheese be left at room temperature? Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F; shredded Parmesan 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 Parmesan cheese, freeze it; when freezing, place shredded Parmesan cheese in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed.
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Frozen Parmesan 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 Parmesan 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 Parmesan cheese last in the freezer? Properly stored, shredded Parmesan cheese 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 Parmesan cheese that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How can you tell if shredded Parmesan 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 Parmesan cheese.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
