Dairy
Fresh, soft cheese, often consumed raw

Burrata CheeseShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.govFDA

Pantry

Not Recommended

Unsafe

Burrata is a fresh, perishable cheese and must be refrigerated. Do not store at room temperature for extended periods.

Refrigerator

1 week past 'sell-by' date (unopened); 3 to 4 days (opened)

Store burrata in its original liquid or in a container with water/brine. Keep tightly sealed in the coldest part of the refrigerator. Consume promptly after opening.

Freezer

Not recommended for freezing due to quality changes

Freezing burrata is not recommended by USDA due to significant changes in texture and flavor upon thawing. If frozen, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to minimize freezer burn. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator. Best used in cooked dishes after thawing.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Sour or off odor
  • Slimy or sticky texture
  • Visible mold growth (other than intentional mold on certain cheeses)
  • Discoloration

Room Temperature Safety

Perishable foods, including burrata, should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), the limit is 1 hour.

The 'Danger Zone' for bacterial growth is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).

Always refrigerate burrata promptly. If it has been left out within the danger zone for too long, it should be discarded to prevent foodborne illness.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Always keep burrata refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below.

2

Avoid cross-contamination by using clean utensils and surfaces.

3

Discard burrata if left at room temperature (above 40°F) for more than 2 hours (1 hour if above 90°F/32°C).

4

Consume within 3-4 days of opening for best quality and safety.

Related Items

Comparisons

Fresh MozzarellaSimilar fresh, soft cheese with comparable storage guidelines.
Fridge
1 week past 'sell-by' date (unopened); 3 to 4 days (opened)
Freezer
Not recommended for freezing due to quality changes
Ricotta CheeseAnother fresh, soft cheese with similar perishability.
Fridge
1 week past 'sell-by' date (unopened); 3 to 4 days (opened)
Freezer
Not recommended for freezing due to quality changes
Hard Cheese (e.g., Cheddar)Hard cheeses have significantly longer shelf lives and freeze better than soft cheeses.
Fridge
6 months (unopened); 3 to 4 weeks (opened)
Freezer
6 months