Shelf Life Tips
- How long does a chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano 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 a chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano 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, a chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese will last for 1 year in the refrigerator.
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Is a chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese still safe after the ? sell by date or "best by date" on the package? Yes - provided it is properly stored, it will typically remain safe to use for 1 year, even if the "sell-by" or "best by date on the package expires.
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If a chunk or block of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese has mold on it, is it still safe to eat? Yes - cut away at least 1 inch around and below the moldy area (do not touch mold with the knife) and re-cover the cheese in fresh wrap.
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Note: if mold appears in a package of shredded, sliced or crumbled Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, the entire package should be discarded.
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To further extend the shelf life of Parmigiano-Reggiano 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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To freeze a chunk or block of Parmigiano-Reggiano 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 a chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 10 to 12 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long does a chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese last after being frozen and thawed? A chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator before using; a chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be used immediately.
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Frozen cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavor; the thawed chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese will be best suited to cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups and casseroles.
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How can you tell if a chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is bad or spoiled? Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese that is going bad typically will develop a very hard texture, will darken in color, will develop a strong smell and mold may appear; see instructions above for how to handle mold on a chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
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