How Long Can Cheese Be Left Out of the Refrigerator?
Cheese is not only a household favorite, but it is almost always invited to the party, too!
However, if you're creating a cheese board or leaving cheeese on the table, you may be wondering how long can cheese sit out at room temperature and still be safe to eat. According to the U.S. Department of Health, cheese should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours; if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C), this limit reduces to one hour.
Does Cheese Go Bad if Left Out?
Yes, cheese can spoil if left unrefrigerated for too long. The safety window depends on the cheese type, primarily its moisture content and whether it is fresh or aged.
- Hard cheeses (like Cheddar or Parmesan) have lower moisture content and can sit out longer without spoiling.
- Soft cheeses (such as Brie or Camembert) are more perishable due to their higher moisture content.
For the best flavor, let cheese sit out at room temperative for 20-30 minutes before serving. However, factor this into the overall time limit to avoid risking food safety.
Can Cheese Be Left Out Overnight?
Leaving cheese out overnight can lead to bacterial growth, especially in softer cheeses with higher moisture content. To keep cheese safe, it’s important to store it in the refrigerator. If you accidentally leave cheese out overnight, hard cheeses like Cheddar or Parmesan might still be safe to eat, but soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert should be discarded. If you need to store cheese for longer periods, consider freezing your cheese.
How Long Does Cheese Last In The Fridge?
The U.S. Department of Health states that hard, aged cheeses like Cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan can last three to four weeks after opening when stored properly. Soft cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, and fresh mozzarella should be consumed within one week of opening.
To keep cheese fresh, wrap it tightly in wax paper or parchment paper, then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. This prevents it from drying out while allowing time to breathe.
Cheeses That Are Less Perishable
Cheeses made in the U.S. from pasteurized milk that have less moisture and a more acidic pH, such as Cheddar, Parmesan, Gouda, Swiss, and other hard, aged cheeses, are less likely to promote bacterial growth and can last longer without refrigeration. Shelf-stable cheeses, which are often either aged or specially processed, also fall into this category. For example, pasteurized processed cheeses, such as American cheese, are designed to withstand longer periods without refrigeration due to their blend of ingredients and heat treatment.
Cheeses That Are More Perishable
Cheeses with higher moisture content that are not aged are more perishable and less likely to last unrefrigerated. These include:
- Soft unripened cheeses: cottage and cream cheese as well as fresh soft cheeses (Queso Fresco), and
- Soft ripened cheeses: Brie, Camembert and fresh mozzarella.
According to Sarah Hill, Manager of Cheese Education and Training for the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, leftover unrefrigerated cheese should be handled differently, depending on the type. For example, she says, “If the cheese tray is out for two hours, soft, fresh cheeses (such as Queso Fresco, Brie, Camembert) should be discarded, but hard cheeses (such as Cheddar, Swiss, Gouda, Parmesan) can be wrapped well and refrigerated to use again. If the cheese has dried out, it can be wrapped in foil and put in the freezer to be used later in a cheesy recipe.”
Tips for Serving Cheese Safely
To keep your cheese board safe and delicious:
- Serve in small portions: Keep extra cheese refrigerated and replenish as needed.
- Use chilled trays: Place the cheese board over a chilled platter or bowl of ice to keep it cool.
- Pair wisely: Add dried fruits, nuts and chutneys to complement the flavos while preventing cross- contamination.
Now that you know how long each type of cheese can sit out, you can safely prepare and wervie your cheese or cheese boards without worry. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, proper storage ensuress freshness and flavor.
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