Quick Answer
It’s generally not recommended to eat pimento cheese past its expiration date. However, if it has been properly stored and there are no signs of spoilage, pimento cheese may still be safe to eat for a short period after the expiration date. Trust your senses – if it smells sour, tastes funky, or has mold, throw it out. When in doubt, play it safe and discard expired pimento cheese.
What happens when pimento cheese expires?
Pimento cheese is a perishable food product that has a relatively short shelf life. The expiration date indicates the last day that the manufacturer guarantees the best flavor and quality. After this date, pimento cheese will slowly start to deteriorate. Here are some common changes that can occur in expired pimento cheese:
Texture
The texture can become dry, crumbly, or gelatinous. This is due to the cheese drying out or the emulsification breaking down.
Flavor
The flavor can become increasingly bitter, sour, or acidic. This is caused by the growth of spoilage microbes and the breakdown of fats and proteins.
Appearance
You may notice a change in color, such as yellowing. Mold growth may appear and is usually a sign to discard the cheese. Separation of the oil and solids can also occur.
Safety
As pimento cheese ages past its prime, the risk of foodborne illness increases. Pathogens can grow and potentially dangerous toxins can form, especially if the cheese has not been refrigerated properly.
How long is pimento cheese good for after opening?
After opening a container of pimento cheese, it will stay fresh for:
- Refrigerator: 7-10 days
- Freezer: 2-3 months
These timelines assume proper storage conditions. Keep pimento cheese refrigerated at 40°F or below and freeze at 0°F or below. Discard if you see any mold growth.
Can you eat expired pimento cheese if it smells and looks normal?
It’s not recommended. Pimento cheese can harbor dangerous bacteria like Listeria or Salmonella without obvious signs of spoilage. The pathogens and toxins that cause food poisoning usually don’t change the taste, smell, or appearance. So while the product may seem normal, eating it could make you sick. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to expired dairy products.
What are some signs pimento cheese has gone bad?
Here are the most common signs that pimento cheese has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Mold growth
- Curdled texture
- Separation of oils and whey
- Sour odor
- Off flavors
- Discoloration
If you notice any of these sensory changes in expired pimento cheese, do not eat it. The microbes that cause food poisoning can be present even if you don’t see or smell anything wrong. Don’t rely on your senses alone to determine if a food is safe. When in doubt, throw it out.
Can expired pimento cheese make you sick?
Yes, eating expired pimento cheese can potentially make you sick. Here are some of the most common foodborne illnesses associated with spoiled pimento cheese:
Listeria monocytogenes
This bacteria can cause listeriosis, with symptoms like fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. It can be very dangerous for pregnant women, infants, elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Salmonella
Salmonella infection causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea that starts 12 to 72 hours after ingesting contaminated food. It can spread from the intestines into the bloodstream and become life-threatening.
Staphylococcus aureus
Staph bacteria can multiply in pimento cheese and release toxins that cause violent vomiting and diarrhea. This usually comes on quickly within 3-6 hours after eating.
Clostridium botulinum
The toxins of C. botulinum cause botulism, a rare but very serious illness. Symptoms include paralysis, blurred vision, slurred speech, and difficulty swallowing. Without prompt treatment, botulism can be fatal.
How to store pimento cheese properly
To get the most shelf life out of your pimento cheese after opening, be sure to store it correctly:
- Refrigerate at 40°F or below
- Keep tightly sealed in original packaging or an airtight container
- Store cheese towards the back of the fridge, away from the door
- Don’t let it sit at room temperature more than 2 hours
- Freeze extras immediately for long term storage
Proper refrigeration and freezing inhibits microbial growth and slows the rate of quality deterioration.
Can you freeze pimento cheese?
Yes, pimento cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life. To freeze:
- Portion into airtight containers or freezer bags
- Remove as much air as possible
- Freeze at 0°F or below
- Use within 2-3 months for best quality
Thaw frozen pimento cheese gradually in the refrigerator. It may become softer after being frozen.
Conclusion
While pimento cheese can sometimes be safely consumed a short time past its printed expiration date, it’s generally not worth the risk. Pimento cheese is highly perishable and can harbor dangerous pathogens without showing obvious signs of spoilage. Your best bet is to enjoy pimento cheese before its expiration date and discard it promptly afterwards. To extend its usable life, store pimento cheese properly in the fridge or freezer. When in doubt if an expired pimento cheese is safe, remember – don’t taste it, just waste it!