Cheese whiz, the classic orange processed cheese spread, does have the potential to go bad if not stored properly. However, its shelf life is quite long compared to many other dairy products. Here’s a look at how long cheese whiz lasts, signs it has gone bad, and how to store it to maximize freshness.
Does Cheese Whiz Go Bad?
Yes, cheese whiz can go bad eventually. Like any food product, it has a shelf life and will degrade in quality over time. However, an unopened jar of cheese whiz has a very long shelf life of 2 to 3 years at room temperature. Once opened, it will last 3 to 4 months refrigerated.
How to Tell if Cheese Whiz is Bad
Here are some signs that your cheese whiz has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Mold growth – any fuzzy growths or spots indicate spoilage
- Separation – the oil separates from the cheese, leaving watery spots
- Chunky texture – the texture becomes gritty or chunky
- Off smells – the cheese develops a sour, bitter, or ammonia-like smell
- Change in color – the orange color fades or darkens
If you notice any of these changes in an opened or unopened jar of cheese whiz, it should be thrown away. Rancid cheese whiz can make you sick.
How to Store Cheese Whiz
To maximize the shelf life of cheese whiz after opening, be sure to refrigerate it. Keep the jar tightly sealed, and store away from sources of heat and light. Refrigeration will preserve both the texture and flavor.
An unopened can of cheese whiz has a long shelf life at room temperature. Store it in a cool, dry pantry away from heat sources like the stove or oven. Avoid storing cheese whiz anywhere hot like a garage or car.
Does Refrigerating Cheese Whiz Change the Texture?
Yes, refrigerating cheese whiz can cause the texture to firm up and become stiffer. The oils and emulsifiers used to create the smooth, squeezable consistency can solidify when cold. However, the change in texture is temporary.
To restore the original texture, remove cheese whiz from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. The oils will warm up and liquefy again, bringing back the smooth, squeezable consistency of fresh cheese whiz.
Can You Freeze Cheese Whiz?
Cheese whiz can be frozen to extend its shelf life, but the texture will degrade after thawing. The emulsion tends to break down and separate when frozen. The cheese whiz may be grainy or watery after thawing.
To freeze, store cheese whiz in airtight containers or freezer bags. Properly stored, it will last 2-3 months frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Is it Safe to Eat Cheese Whiz After the Expiration Date?
It’s generally not recommended to eat cheese whiz past its printed expiration date on the jar. This date indicates the last day the manufacturer will guarantee the best quality and safety. Over time, the flavor, color, and texture degrade.
However, an unopened jar of cheese whiz may still be safe to eat several weeks or months past its expiration date, if it has been continuously refrigerated and there are no signs of spoilage. Use your best judgment evaluating the product’s appearance, aroma, and texture.
Once opened, cheese whiz should be discarded by 3-4 months past its printed date. The shelf life shortens significantly after exposure to air and bacteria.
How to Know If Cheese Whiz Can Be Used in Cooking/Baking After Expiring
Cheese whiz that has recently expired can likely still be used in cooking and baking recipes safely. High temperatures from baking, frying, etc. will destroy any harmful bacteria that could be present in aging cheese whiz.
Evaluate the product closely before use. Look for mold, separation, foul odors and other signs of spoilage. As long as the cheese whiz appears normal, using a small amount in cooked dishes should be fine.
Avoid eatingexpired cheese whiz raw or as a spread. Only use it in applications where it will be fully cooked. If you see any signs of spoilage, it’s best to discard it.
Who Makes Cheese Whiz?
Cheese whiz was invented in the early 1950s by a team at Kraft Foods. The original goal was to find uses for whey, the liquid byproduct of cheesemaking. After experimenting with various whey-based spreads, Kraft launched the first jars of cheese whiz in 1953.
It quickly became popular as a fun, shelf-stable alternative to traditional cheese spreads. The bright orange color and creamy, squeezable texture appealed to kids and families.
Today, cheese whiz is still made and distributed in the U.S. primarily by Kraft Heinz. However, some store brands also produce similar cheese whiz style spreads.
Nutrition Facts for Cheese Whiz
Here are the nutrition facts for a 2 tablespoon (30g) serving of original Kraft cheese whiz:
| Calories | 110 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Carbs | 2g |
| Protein | 3g |
As you can see, cheese whiz is high in sodium, providing 10% of the daily value per serving. It’s also high in saturated fat from the cheese and emulsifying agents. Needless to say, cheese whiz is considered more of an indulgent snack food rather than a health food.
Conclusion
Cheese whiz has a remarkably long shelf life, lasting up to 2-3 years unopened. Once opened, it will maintain best quality for 3-4 months in the refrigerator. Look for mold, texture changes, sour smells, or separation to indicate spoiled cheese whiz. With proper storage, cheese whiz can remain fresh and usable for quite a while after opening.