Cheese sticks, also known as string cheese, are a popular snack for both kids and adults. They are small sticks of mozzarella cheese that can be peeled into strings. But can cheese sticks go bad if left in the refrigerator too long? Here is a comprehensive look at how long cheese sticks last in the fridge and how to tell if they have gone bad.
How Long Do Cheese Sticks Last in the Fridge?
An unopened package of cheese sticks will typically last 1-2 months past the printed expiration date if stored properly in the refrigerator. Once opened, the cheese sticks should be eaten within 1-2 weeks.
Here are some general guidelines for how long cheese sticks last refrigerated:
- Unopened cheese sticks: 2-3 months past the sell by date
- Opened cheese sticks: 1-2 weeks
- Homemade cheese sticks: 1 week
The shelf life depends on several factors:
- Ingredient quality – Fresh, high-quality ingredients last longer
- Storage temperature – Cheese sticks last longer when stored at colder fridge temps (34-38°F)
- Exposure to air – Cheese sticks exposed to air deteriorate faster from moisture loss
- Packaging – Cheese sticks in vacuum sealed or resealable packaging maintain freshness longer
How to Tell if Cheese Sticks Have Gone Bad
Cheese sticks that have gone bad will show signs of spoilage. Here are the main ways to tell if your cheese sticks are no longer fresh and safe to eat:
- Mold – Mold grows quickly on cheese. Check for fuzzy mold spots or mold filaments.
- Sliminess – Fresh cheese sticks should not be slimy. Discard if they have a slick, shiny, or slimy texture.
- Separation – Whey separation is a sign of spoiled cheese sticks. Liquid or clear ooze is not normal.
- Crumbling – Cheese sticks that crumble or fall apart easily are past their prime.
- Ammonia smell – Strong ammonia or sour odors indicate spoilage.
- Off flavors – Rancid, bitter, or unpleasant flavors mean the cheese sticks are spoiled.
Can You Eat Cheese Sticks Past the Expiration Date?
It depends. Hard cheeses like cheddar and parmesan are safe to eat several weeks or even months past their printed expiration date as long as they were stored properly. Soft cheeses like mozzarella and cottage cheese should be used by the expiration date.
For unopened packages, you can go by the expiration or “use by” date as a guide. But also look for any signs of spoilage like mold, sliminess, or off odors. If the cheese sticks smell and look normal, they should be fine to eat for an additional week or two.
Once opened, cheese sticks really only last about 1-2 weeks in the fridge. So eat any opened packages of cheese sticks within that timeframe for best quality and safety.
How to Store Cheese Sticks
Proper storage is key to maximizing the shelf life of cheese sticks. Follow these tips for storing cheese sticks:
- Keep cheese sticks refrigerated at all times at 34-38°F.
- Seal the package tightly or place cheese sticks in an airtight container.
- Store cheese sticks towards the back of the fridge, away from the door.
- Avoid temperature fluctuations – don’t leave cheese sticks out at room temp.
- Use cheese sticks within 1 week of opening the package.
- Check packaging – cheese sticks may last longer in vacuum sealed bags.
Can You Freeze Cheese Sticks?
Yes, you can freeze cheese sticks to extend their shelf life. Freezing stops bacteria growth and slows down food spoilage. Here are some freezing tips:
- Freeze cheese sticks in their original packaging or an airtight freezer bag.
- Squeeze out excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze immediately after purchasing for best flavor and texture.
- Avoid freezing previously thawed cheese sticks.
- Thaw in the refrigerator, not at room temp to prevent spoilage.
- Use within 1 month for best quality.
The freezer time shown is for best quality only. Frozen cheese sticks remain safe to eat indefinitely, but may suffer some texture and flavor loss over longer storage.
| Freezer Storage Time | Cheese Stick Type |
|---|---|
| 2-3 months | Hard cheeses like cheddar |
| 1-2 months | Soft cheeses like mozzarella |
| 2-4 weeks | Shredded cheeses |
| 1 week | Homemade or cheese sauces |
FAQs
Can you eat cheese sticks after the “best by” date?
Yes, it is generally safe to eat cheese sticks for 1-2 weeks after the printed expiration date as long as there are no signs of spoilage. The “best by” date refers more to quality than food safety. Older cheese sticks may become dried out or develop more tangy flavors.
Do cheese sticks need to be refrigerated?
Yes, you should always keep cheese sticks refrigerated. The cool temperatures slow the growth of bacteria and prevent foodborne illness. Store cheese sticks at or below 40°F. Do not leave them out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
How can you tell if string cheese is bad?
Look for mold growth, sliminess, whey separation, unusual textures, foul odors, or bitter flavors. Cheese sticks that are dried out or no longer stringy are also signs that the cheese is over the hill in quality and should be discarded.
Can cheese sticks be frozen?
Yes, freezing is a good option for storing cheese sticks for 1-3 months. Pack cheese sticks tightly to avoid freezer burn. Thaw refrigerated and use within 1 week for best quality. Avoid refreezing previously thawed cheese sticks.
Why do my cheese sticks get moldy so fast?
Cheese sticks may get moldy quickly due to improper storage. Make sure to keep all cheese sticks refrigerated. Also, double check that your fridge temperature is around 35-38°F. Higher temps and fluctuating temps accelerate mold growth. Store cheese sticks away from high-humidity areas like produce drawers.
Conclusion
With proper refrigerated storage, an unopened package of cheese sticks typically stays fresh 1 to 2 months past the printed sell by or expiration date. Once opened, cheese sticks will maintain best quality for about 1-2 weeks in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage like mold, sliminess, whey separation, or off odors, regardless of the date. Freezing can further extend the shelf life of cheese sticks for 1-3 months. Keep cheese sticks refrigerated and tightly sealed, and they should stay safe to eat for a reasonable amount of time past the date on the package.