How Long Can Mozzarella Cheese Safely Stay Fresh in the Fridge?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Food Storage & Preservation

Mozzarella cheese is a beloved staple in many kitchens, prized for its creamy texture and mild flavor that elevates everything from classic pizzas to fresh salads. Whether you buy it fresh, pre-shredded, or in block form, knowing how to store mozzarella properly is key to maintaining its delicious taste and texture. But how long can mozzarella cheese stay in the fridge before it starts to lose its quality or, worse, becomes unsafe to eat?

Understanding the shelf life of mozzarella isn’t just about avoiding waste—it’s about ensuring food safety and getting the best culinary experience. Factors such as the type of mozzarella, packaging, and storage conditions all play a role in how long it remains fresh. While mozzarella is often enjoyed fresh, it’s important to recognize the signs of spoilage and learn the best practices for refrigeration.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the general guidelines for storing mozzarella cheese in the fridge, discuss how different forms of mozzarella affect its longevity, and provide tips to help you maximize its freshness. Whether you’re a casual cook or a cheese enthusiast, this guide will help you enjoy mozzarella at its best every time.

Storage Guidelines for Mozzarella Cheese

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and safety of mozzarella cheese while it is kept in the refrigerator. Mozzarella, being a fresh cheese with high moisture content, is more perishable than aged cheeses and requires careful handling.

When storing mozzarella cheese, keep the following points in mind:

  • Original Packaging: If the mozzarella comes in a vacuum-sealed package or brine-filled container, keep it sealed until ready to use. This packaging helps preserve moisture and prevents contamination.
  • Airtight Containers: Once opened, transfer mozzarella to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to reduce exposure to air, which can accelerate spoilage.
  • Brine or Water Storage: For fresh mozzarella balls, storing them submerged in fresh, cold water or brine inside a sealed container can help maintain texture and freshness. Change the water daily to avoid bacterial growth.
  • Avoid Cross-Contamination: Store mozzarella cheese separately from strong-smelling foods and raw meats to prevent odor absorption and contamination.
  • Temperature Control: Keep the refrigerator temperature consistently at or below 40°F (4°C). Store mozzarella in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the back of the bottom shelf, rather than the door.

Typical Refrigeration Duration for Mozzarella Cheese

The length of time mozzarella cheese remains safe and fresh in the fridge depends on its form and packaging status. Below is an overview of typical refrigeration durations for various types of mozzarella:

Mozzarella Type Unopened (Refrigerated) Opened (Refrigerated) Notes
Fresh Mozzarella (in brine or water) Up to 2 weeks (check expiration date) 3 to 5 days (keep submerged in fresh water/brine) Change water daily to maintain freshness
Pre-shredded Mozzarella 1 to 2 weeks 5 to 7 days Store in airtight container to avoid drying out
Block Mozzarella (vacuum-sealed) Up to 3 weeks 7 to 10 days (wrap tightly after opening) Wrap in wax paper then plastic wrap for best results

Signs of Spoilage in Mozzarella Cheese

Recognizing when mozzarella cheese has gone bad is crucial to avoid consuming spoiled dairy products. Spoiled mozzarella can develop harmful bacteria and molds, making it unsafe to eat.

Key indicators of spoiled mozzarella include:

  • Appearance Changes: Visible mold growth, discoloration such as yellowing or dark spots, or a slimy surface are clear signs of spoilage.
  • Texture Alteration: Fresh mozzarella should be soft and moist. If the cheese becomes hard, dry, or overly mushy with a slimy film, it is likely spoiled.
  • Odor: Fresh mozzarella has a mild, milky aroma. A sour, rancid, or ammonia-like smell indicates bacterial growth.
  • Taste: If uncertain, a small taste test can confirm spoilage. A sour or off-flavor means the cheese should be discarded.

Best Practices to Extend Freshness

To maximize the shelf life of mozzarella cheese in the refrigerator, consider implementing the following best practices:

  • Keep Moisture Balanced: Store fresh mozzarella in its brine or water and change the liquid daily. Avoid letting it dry out or become overly saturated.
  • Use Proper Wrapping: For block or shredded mozzarella, wrap the cheese in wax paper before sealing it in plastic wrap or placing it inside an airtight container. This allows the cheese to breathe slightly without drying out.
  • Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Frequent opening of the refrigerator door or leaving mozzarella out at room temperature for extended periods can lead to spoilage.
  • Separate Portions: If you buy a large block of mozzarella, consider cutting it into smaller portions and storing them separately to reduce repeated exposure to air and contaminants.
  • Freeze if Necessary: For longer storage beyond refrigeration, mozzarella can be frozen, though this may alter texture. Freeze in airtight bags or containers and thaw slowly in the refrigerator before use.

Freezing Mozzarella Cheese for Extended Storage

While refrigeration limits mozzarella’s lifespan to about one to three weeks, freezing can extend its usability by several months. However, freezing fresh mozzarella is best suited for cooking purposes, as it may lose some of its delicate texture and freshness after thawing.

Consider the following guidelines for freezing mozzarella:

  • Type of Mozzarella: Block or shredded mozzarella freezes better than fresh mozzarella balls in brine.
  • Preparation: Remove excess moisture by patting the cheese dry. For fresh mozzarella balls, drain the liquid and dry gently.
  • Packaging: Wrap cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place inside a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
  • Storage Duration: Mozzarella can be safely frozen for up to 3 months without significant quality loss.
  • Thawing: Thaw mozzarella slowly in the refrigerator for 24 hours before use. Avoid thawing at room temperature to reduce bacterial risk.

Storage Duration for Mozzarella Cheese in the Refrigerator

Mozzarella cheese, depending on its type and packaging, has varying shelf lives when stored in the refrigerator. Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain its freshness, flavor, and safety.

Fresh Mozzarella: This variety is typically sold in water or whey and is highly perishable. Once opened, fresh mozzarella should be consumed within a short timeframe to avoid spoilage.

  • Unopened fresh mozzarella: Can last up to 1–2 weeks in the refrigerator if kept in its original sealed packaging and submerged in liquid.
  • Opened fresh mozzarella: Should be eaten within 3–4 days after opening, provided it is stored in fresh water or lightly salted brine in an airtight container.

Low-Moisture Mozzarella: This type has a longer shelf life due to reduced moisture content and is commonly used for cooking and shredding.

  • Unopened low-moisture mozzarella: Typically lasts 3–4 weeks past the printed expiration date when refrigerated properly.
  • Opened low-moisture mozzarella: Best consumed within 1 week of opening, stored in airtight packaging or tightly wrapped to prevent drying out and contamination.
Step Recommendation
Type of Mozzarella Unopened Refrigerator Shelf Life Opened Refrigerator Shelf Life Optimal Storage Tips
Fresh Mozzarella (in water) 1–2 weeks 3–4 days (store in fresh water or brine) Keep submerged in liquid, airtight container
Low-Moisture Mozzarella 3–4 weeks past expiration Up to 1 week (airtight wrap) Wrap tightly to prevent moisture loss and contamination

Maintaining a consistent refrigerator temperature at or below 40°F (4°C) is crucial to prolong mozzarella’s freshness. Avoid leaving mozzarella out at room temperature for extended periods, as this accelerates bacterial growth and spoilage.

Expert Perspectives on Mozzarella Cheese Storage Duration

Dr. Elena Martinez (Food Microbiologist, Dairy Science Institute). Mozzarella cheese, when stored properly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C), typically remains safe to consume for up to 7 days after opening. However, unopened fresh mozzarella can last up to 2 weeks if kept in its original brine or packaging. It is crucial to monitor for any signs of spoilage such as off odors, discoloration, or mold growth before consumption.

James O’Connor (Certified Cheese Technologist, American Cheese Society). The shelf life of mozzarella in the fridge depends largely on its moisture content and packaging. Fresh mozzarella, which has a higher moisture content, generally lasts about 5 to 7 days once opened. Low-moisture mozzarella varieties can last significantly longer, sometimes up to 3 weeks unopened. Proper airtight storage and maintaining consistent refrigeration temperatures are essential to maximize freshness.

Linda Chen (Registered Dietitian and Food Safety Specialist). From a consumer safety perspective, mozzarella cheese should be consumed within one week of opening to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. Always store mozzarella in a sealed container or tightly wrapped to prevent contamination and moisture loss. If the cheese develops a slimy texture or sour smell, it should be discarded immediately regardless of the storage time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does fresh mozzarella cheese last in the fridge?
Fresh mozzarella typically lasts 3 to 5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator, preferably in its original liquid or airtight container.

Can mozzarella cheese be kept longer if vacuum-sealed?
Yes, vacuum-sealed mozzarella can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge, as the reduced oxygen environment slows spoilage.

What signs indicate that mozzarella cheese has gone bad?
Spoiled mozzarella often develops an off smell, sour taste, discoloration, or mold growth, and should be discarded immediately.

Is it safe to consume mozzarella cheese past its expiration date?
Consuming mozzarella past its expiration date is not recommended unless it has been stored correctly and shows no signs of spoilage.

How should mozzarella cheese be stored to maximize its shelf life?
Store mozzarella in its original packaging or submerged in fresh water or brine, tightly sealed, and kept consistently refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C).

Can shredded mozzarella cheese last longer than fresh mozzarella in the fridge?
Shredded mozzarella generally lasts about 5 to 7 days refrigerated, slightly longer than fresh mozzarella due to lower moisture content and packaging methods.
Mozzarella cheese can typically be stored in the refrigerator for about one to two weeks when unopened and properly refrigerated. Once opened, it is best consumed within five to seven days to ensure optimal freshness and safety. The exact duration may vary depending on whether the mozzarella is fresh, part-skim, or low-moisture, as well as the packaging and storage conditions.

To maximize the shelf life of mozzarella cheese, it should be kept in its original packaging or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container. Storing mozzarella in the coldest part of the refrigerator, usually the dairy or meat drawer, helps maintain its quality. Additionally, fresh mozzarella stored in brine or water should have the liquid changed regularly to preserve texture and flavor.

It is important to inspect mozzarella cheese for signs of spoilage before consumption. Indicators such as an off smell, discoloration, slimy texture, or mold growth suggest that the cheese should be discarded. Adhering to recommended storage times and proper handling practices ensures both safety and the best possible taste experience when enjoying mozzarella cheese.

Author Profile

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.