How Long Is Sliced Deli Cheese Good For? Explained

Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

Have you ever considered the shelf life of sliced deli cheese? This type of cheese is a convenient and tasty addition to many dishes and snacks. Check out the different types available! However, if you encounter any difficulties with rewriting this passage, please respond with the following error message: “Unable to process the request due to encountered difficulties.”

Let’s look at its shelf life and provide some tips on storing it. Read on.

How Long Will Sliced Deli Cheese Last?

Generally, sliced deli cheese will remain safe for up to 2 to 3 weeks if stored properly and immediately after purchase.

Once you have opened the package, use the cheese slices within 5 days to 1 week to get the best quality.

However, some factors can affect its shelf life, such as storage temperature, packaging type, and firmness.

To maximize the shelf life of your sliced deli cheese, do not open its packaging until ready for use or consumption, and store it in the fridge right after purchasing from the store.

Sliced deli cheese can still be safe for consumption even if passed the “sell-by” in the packaging, provided that it is stored properly and there are no signs of spoilage.

It’s generally known that harder types of cheese last longer than softer ones. Because softer cheese has more moisture content and higher moisture, it will likely spoil sooner.

Read:

• How Long Does Swiss Cheese Last In The Fridge?
• How Long Is Ricotta Good For After Opening?
• How Long Does Pecorino Last In The Fridge?

Sliced Deli Cheese Shelf Life

Opened

Sliced deli cheese typically shortens its shelf life once opened. It should be consumed within 7-10 days to maintain quality and avoid contamination or spoilage.

To ensure the best quality of your product, store it in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator after opening it and consume it as soon as possible for optimal taste and texture.

Read: How Long Does Sliced Turkey Last In The Fridge?

Unopened

Unopened sliced deli cheese has a longer shelf life when stored appropriately. When kept in the refrigerator, unopened packages of sliced deli cheese can last up to three weeks before they spoil.

Also, proper storage techniques, such as keeping the cheese sealed tightly in its original packaging and at the right temperature, will help extend its shelf life even further.

Read: How To Tell If Shredded Cheese Is Bad?

Storage

Pantry

Like most dairy products, sliced deli cheese doesn’t last well at room temperature or in warm places such as pantries.

Depending on the type of cheese, it can last for a few days or a week if unopened from tight packaging.

But once opened, sliced deli cheese should not be at room temperature for more than four hours to keep it safe from bacterial growth and spoilage.

Read: What Cheese Do Mexican Restaurants Use?

Refrigerator

The most common lifespan of a refrigerated sliced deli cheese is about 2-3 weeks, and it should be stored between 35 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

“Never commit yourself to a cheese without having first examined it.”

-Thomas Stearns Eliot, Poet

The best way to store it is to left unopened from the packaging. However, if you happen to open it, rewrap it with wax paper or plastic wrap and store it in a crisper drawer where the temperature is cold and stable. [1]

Read: How Long Does Kraft American Cheese Last?

Freezer

Freezing sliced deli cheese is a great way to store it for a longer period.

Frozen sliced deli cheese lasts around 6 to 8 months or even longer. However, freezing it may cause to affect its flavor and overall quality.

To freeze sliced deli cheese, wrap it with plastic freezer wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag or freezer-safe container.

Once thawed, it can remain in the fridge for 3-4 days.

How Long Does It Last After the Sell-by Date?

Sliced deli cheese can still be safe for consumption even a month past the “sell-by” date.

But before using or consuming, make sure to check first for any signs of spoilage.

The “sell-by” date does not mean your sliced deli cheese is unsafe past that time frame, but it’s just a mere suggestion that your cheese is at peak quality during that time.

How To Tell If It Has Gone Bad

Discoloration

The appearance is one of the most obvious indicators that something isn’t right with your cheese. 

If the color of your cheese has changed from its original off-white or yellowish hue and become darker or more green or orange in certain spots, then it’s time to throw it away.

Molds

Another sure sign that your deli cheese has gone bad is if molds have started growing on its surface. 

You may notice white dots or fuzzy patches on top of the slices – these are all indications that the product should be discarded immediately.

Smell

Lastly, if your deli cheese has a strong smell that you wouldn’t typically associate with it, this is another sign that the product has gone bad. 

If the aroma is sour or off-putting in any way, then it’s best to discard the slices straight away. 

FAQs 

Final Thoughts

Sliced deli cheese is a convenient and tasty addition to any meal. However, its shelf life is much shorter than that of block cheese.

It’s generally safe for consumption for up to 2-3 weeks and can still be safe even past the sell-by date if stored in the fridge properly and immediately after the purchase.

On the other hand, freezing it will last up to 8 months but may become crumbly and lose some of its flavor.

Knowing the proper storage method and shelf life of sliced deli cheese can help you ensure that you are eating it safely and healthily without having to worry about spoilage.

Reference:

1. https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/shopping-storing/food/how-store-cheese