How Long Does Mozzarella Cheese Stay Fresh in the Fridge?

AvatarByNora Gaines Food Storage & Preservation

Mozzarella cheese, with its creamy texture and mild flavor, is a beloved staple in many kitchens around the world. Whether melted atop a pizza, layered in a fresh Caprese salad, or simply enjoyed on its own, mozzarella adds a delicious touch to countless dishes. But like all dairy products, it’s important to understand how to store it properly to maintain its quality and safety.

Knowing how long mozzarella cheese stays good in the fridge can save you from unnecessary waste and ensure that every bite is fresh and flavorful. Factors such as the type of mozzarella, packaging, and storage conditions all play a role in determining its shelf life. Navigating these details helps you make the most of this versatile cheese without compromising on taste or health.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key considerations for storing mozzarella cheese, signs to look out for when it’s past its prime, and tips to extend its freshness. Whether you’re a casual cook or a cheese enthusiast, understanding these essentials will help you enjoy mozzarella at its best every time.

Storage Tips to Maximize Freshness

Proper storage is essential to extend the shelf life of mozzarella cheese in the refrigerator. Fresh mozzarella is highly perishable due to its high moisture content, so handling it correctly is crucial to maintain its quality and safety.

When storing fresh mozzarella, keep it in its original packaging if unopened. Once opened, transfer the cheese to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to minimize exposure to air, which can accelerate spoilage. For mozzarella stored in brine or liquid, ensure it remains fully submerged to preserve moisture and flavor.

Soft or fresh mozzarella should ideally be kept at a temperature between 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C). Avoid storing cheese in the refrigerator door, where temperature fluctuations are more common. Instead, place it in the main body of the fridge, preferably in a cheese drawer or a similar low-humidity compartment.

For shredded or sliced mozzarella, use airtight containers or resealable bags and consume within a shorter timeframe, as increased surface area speeds up drying and spoilage.

Signs Mozzarella Cheese Has Gone Bad

Identifying spoiled mozzarella is important to avoid foodborne illness. While mozzarella is relatively forgiving compared to some other cheeses, it does not last indefinitely.

Key indicators that mozzarella cheese has gone bad include:

  • Smell: A sour, rancid, or ammonia-like odor suggests spoilage.
  • Texture: Slimy or excessively sticky surfaces, or a dry and crumbly texture in fresh mozzarella, indicate it is no longer fresh.
  • Appearance: Visible mold growth (other than the natural white mold on aged cheeses) or discoloration such as yellowing or dark spots.
  • Taste: A sour or off-flavor is a clear sign the cheese should be discarded.

If any of these signs are present, it is safest to discard the mozzarella.

Typical Shelf Life of Mozzarella Cheese in the Fridge

The shelf life of mozzarella cheese varies depending on its type and packaging. Below is an overview of typical refrigeration durations:

Type of Mozzarella Unopened Shelf Life (Refrigerated) Opened Shelf Life (Refrigerated)
Fresh Mozzarella (in brine) Up to 1 week 3 to 4 days
Packaged Pre-shredded Mozzarella 2 to 3 weeks 5 to 7 days
Low-moisture Mozzarella (block or sliced) 3 to 4 weeks 7 to 10 days

Note that these time frames assume consistent refrigeration at the proper temperature and minimal exposure to air. Always check the manufacturer’s best-by date for guidance.

Freezing Mozzarella Cheese

Freezing mozzarella cheese is an option to extend its usability beyond refrigerator limits, though it may affect texture and flavor. Fresh mozzarella tends to become crumbly and less creamy after freezing, making it better suited for cooking purposes where texture is less critical, such as in baked dishes.

To freeze mozzarella:

  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
  • Place the wrapped cheese in an airtight freezer bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
  • Label with the freezing date.

Mozzarella can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality. To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost slowly overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to reduce the risk of bacterial growth.

Additional Best Practices for Handling Mozzarella

  • Always use clean utensils when handling mozzarella to prevent contamination.
  • Do not leave mozzarella out at room temperature for extended periods; limit exposure to two hours or less.
  • When possible, purchase mozzarella close to the time you plan to use it to ensure optimal freshness.
  • Consider buying mozzarella in smaller quantities if you do not consume it frequently.

By following these storage and handling practices, you can enjoy mozzarella cheese at its best quality for as long as possible.

Storage Duration of Mozzarella Cheese in the Refrigerator

Mozzarella cheese’s shelf life in the refrigerator depends significantly on its form, packaging, and whether it has been opened. Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain its freshness, flavor, and texture.

Fresh Mozzarella: This type is typically sold in water or brine and has a higher moisture content, making it more perishable. When unopened and stored in its original liquid, fresh mozzarella can last approximately 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge.

Once opened, it is important to keep fresh mozzarella submerged in its liquid or in a sealed container with fresh water changed daily. Under these conditions, it is best consumed within 3 to 5 days to avoid spoilage.

Low-Moisture Mozzarella: This variety is firmer and drier, commonly used for shredding or slicing. Unopened, low-moisture mozzarella can last up to 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.

After opening, it should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and consumed within 5 to 7 days for optimal quality.

Mozzarella Type Unopened Shelf Life (Refrigerated) Opened Shelf Life (Refrigerated) Storage Tips
Fresh Mozzarella (in liquid) 1 to 2 weeks 3 to 5 days (keep in liquid, change daily) Store submerged in original liquid; use airtight container after opening
Low-Moisture Mozzarella 3 to 4 weeks 5 to 7 days (wrap tightly or airtight container) Keep wrapped tightly to prevent drying out and odor absorption

Factors Influencing the Shelf Life of Mozzarella Cheese

Several factors affect how long mozzarella cheese remains good in the fridge. Understanding these can help extend freshness and avoid waste.

  • Packaging Integrity: Vacuum-sealed mozzarella lasts longer due to limited exposure to air and bacteria. Once the packaging is compromised, the shelf life decreases considerably.
  • Storage Temperature: Consistent refrigeration at or below 40°F (4°C) slows microbial growth. Fluctuating or higher temperatures can accelerate spoilage.
  • Moisture Content: Higher moisture cheeses like fresh mozzarella spoil faster than drier varieties.
  • Handling Practices: Using clean utensils and minimizing exposure to air and contaminants prevents early spoilage.
  • Presence of Preservatives: Some commercially produced mozzarella may contain preservatives that extend shelf life.

Signs That Mozzarella Cheese Has Spoiled

Identifying spoilage early is critical for food safety. Users should check mozzarella carefully before consumption.

  • Appearance Changes: Mold growth, discoloration (yellowing or dark spots), or slimy texture are clear signs of spoilage.
  • Odor: A sour, rancid, or ammonia-like smell indicates bacterial or fungal growth.
  • Texture Alterations: Fresh mozzarella becoming excessively hard, dry, or mushy signals degradation.
  • Taste: A sour or off flavor confirms that the cheese is no longer safe to eat (avoid tasting if other signs are present).

If any of these signs are present, the mozzarella should be discarded immediately to prevent foodborne illness.

Best Practices for Extending Mozzarella Cheese Freshness in the Refrigerator

To maximize the usable life of mozzarella cheese, adhere to the following storage recommendations:

  • Keep fresh mozzarella submerged in its original brine or water and replace liquid daily.
  • Store low-moisture mozzarella tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or sealed in an airtight container to reduce moisture loss and contamination.
  • Maintain a consistent refrigerator temperature of 34–38°F (1–3°C).
  • Place mozzarella away from strong-smelling foods to prevent odor absorption.
  • Use clean utensils when handling cheese to avoid introducing bacteria.
  • Label opened packages with the date to track freshness and consume within recommended timeframes.

Expert Insights on Mozzarella Cheese Shelf Life in Refrigeration

Dr. Elena Martinez (Food Microbiologist, Dairy Research Institute). When stored properly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C), fresh mozzarella cheese typically remains safe to consume for about 5 to 7 days after opening. The high moisture content makes it more perishable than aged cheeses, so it is critical to keep it tightly sealed and submerged in its brine or liquid to maintain freshness and inhibit bacterial growth.

James Thornton (Certified Cheese Specialist, Artisan Cheese Guild). Mozzarella’s shelf life in the fridge varies depending on whether it is fresh or low-moisture. Fresh mozzarella should be consumed within a week once opened, while low-moisture mozzarella can last up to 2 to 3 weeks if unopened. Always check for signs of spoilage such as off odors, discoloration, or slimy texture before use.

Dr. Priya Singh (Food Safety Consultant, National Dairy Council). From a food safety perspective, mozzarella cheese should not be kept in the refrigerator for more than one week after opening. Beyond this period, the risk of contamination by pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes increases. Proper refrigeration and hygiene practices are essential to maximize shelf life and ensure consumer safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does fresh mozzarella last in the fridge?
Fresh mozzarella typically lasts 3 to 5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator, ideally in its original brine or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Can shredded mozzarella cheese last longer than fresh mozzarella?
Yes, shredded mozzarella usually lasts about 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge when kept in an airtight container or sealed packaging.

What signs indicate that mozzarella cheese has gone bad?
Spoiled mozzarella may develop a sour smell, discoloration, a slimy texture, or visible mold, indicating it should be discarded immediately.

Is it safe to eat mozzarella cheese past its expiration date?
Consuming mozzarella shortly after the expiration date may be safe if stored properly and showing no spoilage signs, but it is best to exercise caution and inspect carefully.

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

Can freezing mozzarella cheese extend its shelf life?
Freezing mozzarella can extend its shelf life up to 2 months, but it may alter the texture, making it more crumbly and less suitable for fresh consumption.
Mozzarella cheese, when stored properly in the refrigerator, typically remains good for about 1 to 2 weeks after opening. Fresh mozzarella, which has higher moisture content, tends to have a shorter shelf life and should ideally be consumed within a few days to a week. In contrast, low-moisture mozzarella, such as the shredded or block varieties, can last longer—often up to two weeks or slightly more if kept sealed and refrigerated consistently at the appropriate temperature.

Proper storage is critical to maximizing the shelf life of mozzarella cheese. Keeping the cheese tightly wrapped in its original packaging or in an airtight container helps prevent exposure to air and moisture, which can accelerate spoilage. Additionally, storing mozzarella in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the dairy drawer or a temperature-controlled compartment, helps maintain its freshness and texture.

It is important to always check mozzarella cheese for signs of spoilage before consumption. Indicators such as an off smell, discoloration, mold growth, or an unusual texture signal that the cheese should be discarded. Adhering to these guidelines ensures both the safety and quality of mozzarella cheese, allowing consumers to enjoy its flavor and texture at their best.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.