How long does cheese last once opened?
Cheese (hard such as cheddar, swiss, block parmesan, opened) keeps 3-4 weeks in the fridge.
Fridge
After opening
3-4weeks
Freezer
Can be frozen: yes
-
Pantry
No known time
-
Mine has been in the fridge for
Refreeze after thawing in the fridge?
- United States
- Yes
- United Kingdom
- Only after cooking
How long does cheese last in the fridge?
- Hard such as cheddar, swiss, block parmesan, opened3-4 weeksAfter opening
Your fridge should be set between 0 and 5°C.
Refrigerators should be set to maintain a temperature of 40 °F or below.
Other forms
| Form | Fridge | Freezer | Pantry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hard such as cheddar, swiss, block parmesan | 4-6 months | 2 months | - |
| Parmesan; shredded or grated | 12 months | - | - |
| Shredded; cheddar, mozzarella, etc. | 1 month | 3-4 months | - |
| Processed slices | 3-4 weeks | - | - |
| Soft such as brie, bel paese, goat | 1-2 weeks | - | - |
| General guidance | - | 6 months | - |
What the official sources say
“Cheese, hard - Cheddar, Swiss, block Parmesan, etc. - 6 months (unopened); 3 to 4 weeks (opened)”
“Opened packages of hard and wax coated (such as Cheddar, Edam, Gouda, Swiss, brick) cheese 3 to 4 weeks”
Sources
We always show the most cautious time among official sources. Last checked: 1 October 2026.
- FoodSafety.gov Cold Food Storage Chart US
- Food Standards Agency - consumer food hygiene guidance GB
- Ministère de l'Agriculture FR
- Colorado State University Extension US
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension US
- Love Food Hate Waste (WRAP) GB
- National Center for Home Food Preservation US
- Ohio State University Extension US
- Kansas State University Research and Extension US
- Virginia Cooperative Extension (Virginia Tech) US
- Surrey Environment Partnership GB
- West London Waste Authority GB
- Washington State University Extension US
- USDA FSIS FoodKeeper data US
- USDA FSIS Safe Food Handling and Preparation US