How Long Does Mozzarella Cheese Last Before It Goes Bad?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

Mozzarella cheese is a beloved staple in kitchens around the world, known for its creamy texture and mild flavor that perfectly complements everything from pizzas to salads. Whether you’re savoring fresh mozzarella or using the shredded variety in your favorite recipes, understanding how long this cheese lasts is essential to enjoying it at its best. Knowing the shelf life of mozzarella not only helps reduce food waste but also ensures safety and optimal taste.

The lifespan of mozzarella cheese can vary widely depending on factors such as its form, packaging, and storage conditions. Fresh mozzarella, often sold in brine or vacuum-sealed packs, has different preservation needs compared to the firmer, aged varieties. Additionally, how you store mozzarella—whether in the refrigerator, freezer, or at room temperature—plays a crucial role in maintaining its quality over time.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key considerations that affect mozzarella’s longevity, including signs of spoilage and tips for extending its freshness. Whether you’re a casual cheese lover or a culinary enthusiast, gaining insight into mozzarella’s shelf life will help you make the most of this versatile ingredient.

Storage Tips to Extend Mozzarella Cheese Shelf Life

Proper storage is essential to maximize the shelf life of mozzarella cheese and maintain its flavor and texture. Fresh mozzarella, often packed in brine or vacuum-sealed, requires different handling compared to aged mozzarella varieties.

For fresh mozzarella:

  • Always keep the cheese submerged in its liquid or brine to prevent drying out.
  • Store it in an airtight container to avoid exposure to air, which accelerates spoilage.
  • Keep the cheese refrigerated at a consistent temperature of 34°F to 39°F (1°C to 4°C).
  • If the liquid is discarded, replace it with fresh, salted water to maintain moisture.

For aged or low-moisture mozzarella:

  • Wrap the cheese tightly in wax paper or parchment paper, then place it inside a loosely sealed plastic bag or container.
  • Avoid wrapping directly in plastic wrap, as this can trap moisture and promote mold growth.
  • Store in the warmest part of the refrigerator, such as the vegetable drawer, to prevent the cheese from becoming too cold and hard.

When freezing mozzarella:

  • Fresh mozzarella does not freeze well due to its high moisture content; freezing can alter its texture significantly.
  • Low-moisture mozzarella freezes better but should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn.
  • Thaw frozen mozzarella in the refrigerator overnight before use, and use it within a few days for best quality.

Signs That Mozzarella Cheese Has Gone Bad

Identifying spoilage in mozzarella cheese is crucial to avoid foodborne illness and unpleasant eating experiences. Several visual, olfactory, and textural indicators can signal that mozzarella is no longer safe to consume.

Common signs of spoiled mozzarella include:

  • Mold Growth: Any appearance of green, blue, black, or white fuzzy mold on the surface.
  • Off Odor: A sour, ammonia-like, or rancid smell rather than the fresh, milky aroma.
  • Texture Changes: Sliminess, excessive dryness, or a crumbly texture that deviates from the expected soft or semi-soft consistency.
  • Discoloration: Yellowing or dark spots that are not characteristic of the cheese variety.
  • Taste: A bitter or sour flavor indicating bacterial growth.

If any of these signs are present, it is best to discard the cheese immediately to prevent health risks.

Mozzarella Cheese Shelf Life Comparison Table

Mozzarella Type Storage Method Refrigerated Shelf Life Frozen Shelf Life Notes
Fresh Mozzarella (packed in brine) Refrigerated, in original liquid 5-7 days after opening Not recommended Keep submerged in brine; discard if liquid becomes cloudy or slimy
Fresh Mozzarella (vacuum-sealed) Refrigerated, unopened 1-2 weeks Not recommended Use immediately after opening
Low-Moisture Mozzarella Refrigerated, wrapped properly 3-4 weeks unopened; 1-2 weeks opened Up to 3 months Freezing may affect texture; best for cooking after freezing
Shredded Mozzarella Refrigerated, airtight container 1-2 weeks Up to 3 months Check for clumping or mold

Understanding the Shelf Life of Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese, a popular dairy product known for its mild flavor and stretchy texture, varies in shelf life depending on its form, packaging, and storage conditions. Recognizing these factors is essential to ensure safety and maintain quality.

Fresh Mozzarella: This type is typically sold in brine or vacuum-sealed packaging and is highly perishable due to its high moisture content.

  • Unopened: When kept refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C), unopened fresh mozzarella usually lasts about 1 to 2 weeks past the printed sell-by date.
  • Opened: After opening, fresh mozzarella should be consumed within 3 to 5 days. It is advisable to store it submerged in its liquid or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Low-Moisture Mozzarella: This variety, commonly used for pizza and shredded cheese blends, has a longer shelf life due to reduced water content.

  • Unopened: When refrigerated, unopened low-moisture mozzarella can last 3 to 4 weeks past the printed date.
  • Opened: Once opened, it should be consumed within 1 to 2 weeks and stored in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to maintain freshness.

Frozen Mozzarella: Mozzarella cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life, although this may affect texture and melting properties.

  • Frozen mozzarella retains best quality for up to 3 months.
  • It should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
  • After thawing in the refrigerator, consume within 3 to 5 days without refreezing.
Mozzarella Type Storage Condition Typical Shelf Life
Fresh Mozzarella (Unopened) Refrigerated (≤ 40°F / 4°C) 1–2 weeks past sell-by date
Fresh Mozzarella (Opened) Refrigerated, submerged in liquid or wrapped 3–5 days
Low-Moisture Mozzarella (Unopened) Refrigerated (≤ 40°F / 4°C) 3–4 weeks past sell-by date
Low-Moisture Mozzarella (Opened) Refrigerated, airtight container 1–2 weeks
Frozen Mozzarella (All Types) Frozen (0°F / -18°C) Up to 3 months

Expert Insights on Mozzarella Cheese Shelf Life

Dr. Emily Carter (Food Microbiologist, National Dairy Research Institute). Mozzarella cheese, when stored properly in refrigeration at or below 40°F (4°C), typically remains safe to consume for about one to two weeks after opening. Fresh mozzarella, due to its higher moisture content, has a shorter shelf life compared to low-moisture varieties and should be consumed quickly to avoid spoilage and bacterial growth.

James Thornton (Certified Cheese Technologist, American Cheese Society). The longevity of mozzarella cheese depends heavily on its packaging and storage conditions. Vacuum-sealed mozzarella can last up to several weeks unopened in the fridge, while once opened, it is best used within five to seven days. Always check for signs of mold or off-odors, as these indicate the cheese is no longer safe to eat.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Dairy Science Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison). Fresh mozzarella’s shelf life is influenced by its water activity and pH level. Typically, fresh mozzarella stored in brine or whey can last up to a week in the refrigerator. For optimal quality and safety, it is advisable to consume fresh mozzarella within three to five days after opening, as microbial growth accelerates once the protective packaging is compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does unopened mozzarella cheese last in the refrigerator?
Unopened mozzarella cheese typically lasts about 2 to 3 weeks past the printed sell-by date when stored properly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).

How long can fresh mozzarella be kept after opening?
Once opened, fresh mozzarella should be consumed within 3 to 5 days for optimal freshness and safety, provided it is kept refrigerated in an airtight container.

Can mozzarella cheese be frozen to extend its shelf life?
Yes, mozzarella cheese can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, freezing may alter its texture, making it more crumbly and less creamy after thawing.

What signs indicate that mozzarella cheese has gone bad?
Spoiled mozzarella cheese may exhibit mold growth, an off or sour odor, discoloration, or a slimy texture, all of which indicate it should be discarded.

Does shredded mozzarella cheese have the same shelf life as block mozzarella?
Shredded mozzarella generally has a shorter shelf life than block cheese, lasting about 5 to 7 days once opened due to increased exposure to air and potential contaminants.

Is it safe to eat mozzarella cheese past its expiration date?
Consuming mozzarella cheese shortly after the expiration date may be safe if there are no signs of spoilage, but it is best to rely on sensory evaluation and proper storage conditions to determine safety.
In summary, the shelf life of mozzarella cheese depends significantly on its type, storage method, and packaging. Fresh mozzarella, typically stored in brine or vacuum-sealed packaging, has a shorter shelf life, generally lasting about 1 to 2 weeks when refrigerated properly. On the other hand, low-moisture mozzarella, commonly used for cooking and sold in blocks or shredded form, can last several weeks to months when kept sealed and refrigerated. Proper storage, including maintaining consistent refrigeration temperatures and minimizing exposure to air, is crucial to preserving the cheese’s freshness and preventing spoilage.

It is important to always check for signs of spoilage such as off odors, discoloration, or mold growth before consumption. While mozzarella can sometimes be frozen to extend its usability, this may alter its texture, making it better suited for cooking rather than fresh eating after thawing. Adhering to best practices in handling and storage will help maximize the quality and safety of mozzarella cheese throughout its lifespan.

Ultimately, understanding the differences between fresh and low-moisture mozzarella and following recommended storage guidelines ensures that consumers can enjoy this versatile cheese at its best. Regularly monitoring expiration dates and sensory indicators will aid in making informed decisions about mozzarella cheese consumption, reducing

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.