If you want to know how long does cream cheese last beyond its best buy date, you’re on the right page! Generally, unopened cream cheese can last for about 3 – 4 weeks in the fridge and up to 2 months in the freezer.
As far as opened cream cheese is concerned, it can last for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
| Beyond best buy date | Fridge | Freezer |
| Unopened cream cheese | 3 – 4 Weeks | 2 Months |
| Opened cream cheese | 1 – 2 Weeks | – |
How to tell if the cream cheese is bad?
Checking for signs of spoilage in cream cheese is as easy as pie. All you have to do is use your senses.
First, you can look out for any discolorations. If you notice that your cream cheese had turned pale or yellowish and has mold formation, these are clear signs that the cheese has gone bad.
Rancid cream cheese will have an off smell and a slimy, over dry or chalky texture.
How to properly store cream cheese to extend its shelf life?
Cream cheese is a dairy product. Hence, similar to other dairy products such as yogurt, butter, or buttermilk, cream cheese needs to be stored in the fridge at all times.
Make sure to store both opened and unopened cream cheese in the fridge. Once you open the cream cheese container, always cover it well when not in use.
Can cream cheese go bad?
Yes, like all food products, cream cheese will eventually go bad. Cream cheese does last for up to two to three weeks past its best-by date, provided you store it in the fridge.
However, after a certain period, the cream cheese will start losing its quality and go bad.
Can you freeze a cream cheese?
Yes, you can freeze cream cheese. Frozen cream cheese can last you for up to 2 months.
However, once you freeze the cream cheese, note that you wouldn’t enjoy its smooth and soft texture anymore.
Interesting facts about cream cheese:
Here are some interesting facts about cream cheese:
In the U.S, Philadelphia is the most popular cream cheese brand.
Did you know? The FDA Regulations Handbook has an entire section solely on Cream Cheese.
Cream cheese has tons of delicious flavors and variations out there, including cream cheese frosting, truffle, and lots more.
Conclusion:
You’ll notice that all cream cheese containers come with a best before date. However, don’t confuse this with an expiration date. You can still use cream cheese for a certain amount of time, even past its best before dates. Just make sure to follow the above storage and shelf life guidelines.
References:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cream_cheese
- https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-long-after-opening-is-it-safe-to-eat-cream-cheese/
- http://federated.info/?page_id=1106
