How Long Does Vacuum-Packed Cheese Last?
Vacuum packing is an excellent food preservation method that helps extend the shelf life of products such as meat, fish, and cheese. But do you want to know how long vacuum-packed cheese actually lasts? It mostly depends on the variety. Don’t worry—at Enrique Tomás, we’ll explain everything you need to know.
How Long Does Vacuum-Packed Cheese Last According to Its Maturity?
The first thing to keep in mind is that not all cheeses are suitable for vacuum sealing. Fresh or soft cheeses, for example, are meant for immediate enjoyment and are not sold vacuum packed because they should be consumed as quickly as possible. Cheeses that are not fresh can be vacuum packed, and the more aged the cheese is, the better it keeps. Semi-cured and cured varieties preserve best, and you can buy them in two common formats:
Whole Cheese
If you buy a whole wheel or block, it does not need to be vacuum packed. The rind naturally protects the interior. Simply wrap it in clean, dry paper or plastic wrap, and store it in a cool, dry, dark pantry. It can last for several months this way.
Cheese Wedges
If you prefer to buy a smaller portion, it is best to choose a vacuum-packed wedge. While the rind protects a whole cheese, a pre-cut wedge has already been exposed to oxygen. To find out its exact shelf life, simply check the expiration or best-before date indicated on the packaging by the manufacturer.
What Happens Once the Vacuum Seal Is Broken?
As with any other food product, once the vacuum seal is broken, the cheese should be consumed within a reasonable period. The best way to preserve your cheese once opened is to keep it properly stored inside the refrigerator.
Ideal Temperatures by Cheese Type
Semi-cured and cured cheeses
They keep beautifully at around 8°C (46°F). Place them inside your refrigerator's vegetable drawer: the gentler chill prevents the cheese from drying out, cracking, or becoming brittle. Keeping it in an airtight cheese container is ideal.
Soft and fresh cheeses
These require lower temperatures to stay fresh. Position your cheese container or airtight box on the upper shelves of the refrigerator, where the temperature is coldest, to ensure proper preservation.
"Whatever type of cheese you have at home, remember that the absolute best place to preserve food is inside your stomach. Don’t leave it waiting too long—eat it while it’s fresh and full of flavor!"
Explore our complete selection of fine cheeses at Enrique Tomás.
