Shelf Life Tips
- How long does a chunk of Parmesan cheese last once opened? 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 Parmesan 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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How long does a chunk of Parmesan cheese last in the refrigerator once opened? Properly stored, an opened chunk of Parmesan cheese will last for about 4 to 6 weeks in the refrigerator.
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Is an opened chunk of Parmesan cheese still safe after the "sell by" date or "best by date" on the package? Yes - after the cheese is opened, it will typically remain safe to use for about 6 weeks, even if the "sell-by" or "best by" date on the package expires.
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If a chunk or block of Parmesan 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 Parmesan cheese, the entire package should be discarded.
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Can you freeze Parmesan cheese? Yes- for best results, grate the Parmesan cheese before freezing and place the grated cheese inside an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
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How long does Parmesan cheese last in the freezer? Properly stored, Parmesan cheese will maintain best quality in the freezer for about 12 to 18 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - Parmesan cheese that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long does Parmesan cheese last after being frozen and thawed? Parmesan cheese that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator before using; Parmesan 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 Parmesan cheese will be best suited to cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups and casseroles.
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How can you tell if an opened chunk of Parmesan cheese is bad or spoiled? Parmesan 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 Parmesan cheese.
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