Last Updated on April 15, 2023 by Lauren Beck
Cream cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet to savory. It’s a staple in many households, but how long does it last once opened?
In this article, we’ll answer that question and provide tips on how to properly store cream cheese to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.
How Long Is Opened Cream Cheese Good For?
Opened cream cheese can last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator if it has been stored properly. However, this can vary depending on the brand and storage conditions.
It’s important to check for signs of spoilage before consuming it, such as mold, sour smell, or off taste.
What is Cream Cheese?
Cream cheese is a soft, spreadable cheese made from a mixture of milk and cream. It has a mild, slightly tangy flavor and a smooth texture that makes it a popular ingredient in many dishes, including cheesecake, dips, and spreads.
How Long Does Cream Cheese Last Once Opened?
Cream cheese can last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator once opened. However, this can vary depending on the brand and how well it’s been stored. To ensure that your cream cheese stays fresh, it’s important to store it properly.
How Long Does Cream Cheese Last After the Sell-by Date?
The sell-by date on cream cheese is a guide for the retailer, not the consumer. Cream cheese can still be safe to eat for up to two weeks after the sell-by date if it has been stored properly.
However, checking for signs of spoilage before consuming it is always a good idea.
How Long Can Cream Cheese Be Left at Room Temperature?
Cream cheese should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness. It’s best to keep cream cheese refrigerated when not in use.
How Long Does Cream Cheese Last in the Freezer?
Cream cheese can be frozen for up to two months. However, the texture may change once it’s been thawed. It’s best to use frozen cream cheese in recipes that require it to be mixed with other ingredients.
Signs of Spoiled Cream Cheese
There are a few signs that cream cheese has gone bad, including:
- Mold: If you see mold growing on the surface of the cream cheese, it’s time to throw it away.
- Sour smell: If the cream cheese has a sour or unpleasant odor, it’s likely spoiled.
- Off taste: If the cream cheese tastes sour or has an off flavor, it’s best to discard it.
How to Properly Store Cream Cheese?
To ensure that cream cheese stays fresh, it should always be stored in the refrigerator. Here are a few tips on how to properly store cream cheese:
- Keep it in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, which is usually the back.
- Avoid storing it in the door, as this area is subject to temperature fluctuations.
How to Store Cream Cheese Frosting?
Cream cheese frosting [1] should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week if stored properly. If you need to store it for longer than a week, you can freeze it for up to three months.
What Happens if You Eat Expired Cream Cheese?
Eating expired cream cheese can lead to foodborne illness. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. If you suspect you’ve eaten expired cream cheese and are experiencing symptoms, seeking medical attention is important.
Conclusion
Cream cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. To ensure that it stays fresh and safe to eat, it’s important to store it properly and check for signs of spoilage. By following the tips in this article, you can enjoy delicious cream cheese dishes without worrying about food safety.
Reference:
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/8379/basic-cream-cheese-frosting/
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