Goat CheeseShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide
Pantry
Not RecommendedUnsafe
Goat cheese requires refrigeration to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage. Do not store at room temperature.
Refrigerator
1-2 weeks
Store opened goat cheese tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or foil, or in an airtight container, in the coldest part of the refrigerator. Unopened, it may last longer, but once opened, adhere to the 1-2 week guideline.
Freezer
Not RecommendedNot recommended
Freezing soft cheeses like goat cheese is generally not recommended as it can significantly alter the texture, making it crumbly or watery upon thawing. While safe indefinitely from a microbiological standpoint at 0°F (-18°C), quality will degrade.
Signs of Spoilage
- Visible mold growth (other than intentional mold on certain cheese types)
- Off-odor, sour, or ammonia-like smell
- Slimy or sticky texture
- Significant discoloration
Room Temperature Safety
The 'Danger Zone' for bacterial growth is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).
Promptly refrigerate goat cheese after purchase and after each use. Discard any goat cheese left in the danger zone for longer than the recommended time limits.
Safe Handling
Always keep goat cheese refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Avoid leaving goat cheese at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F/32°C).
Use clean utensils when serving to prevent cross-contamination.
If freezing, be aware of potential texture changes upon thawing; it may be best suited for cooked dishes rather than fresh consumption.