Can Feta Cheese Go Bad? The Definitive Guide
Yes, feta cheese can go bad. While its high salt content helps preserve it, improper storage or extended shelf life can lead to spoilage, making it unsafe to consume.
What is Feta Cheese? A Historical Perspective
Feta, a crumbly white cheese traditionally made from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk, boasts a history spanning millennia. Originating in Greece, the name “feta” derives from the Italian word fetta, meaning “slice,” referencing the way it was originally cut for preservation. The cheese is known for its salty, tangy flavor and its versatility in culinary applications. Genuine feta cheese is protected by EU law, meaning it can only be called “feta” if produced in a specific geographical region of Greece and made according to traditional methods. Imitations often substitute cow’s milk, resulting in a milder, less complex flavor profile.
The Feta Making Process: A Brief Overview
The traditional method of crafting feta cheese involves several key steps:
- Curdling: Sheep’s or goat’s milk is curdled using rennet and sometimes lactic acid bacteria.
- Cutting the Curd: The curd is cut into small pieces to release whey.
- Draining: The whey is drained from the curd.
- Salting: The curd is heavily salted, contributing to its characteristic flavor and preservative properties.
- Brining: The salted curd is submerged in brine (a salt water solution) for several weeks, further enhancing its flavor and preserving it.
- Maturing: Feta is typically matured in brine for at least two months.
Nutritional Benefits of Feta Cheese
Beyond its distinct flavor, feta cheese offers various nutritional benefits:
- Calcium: Essential for bone health and muscle function.
- Protein: Important for building and repairing tissues.
- Probiotics: Some feta cheeses contain beneficial bacteria that support gut health, though this can vary depending on the production method.
- Vitamin B12: Necessary for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
- Relatively Low in Calories: Compared to some other cheeses, feta is relatively lower in calories.
However, it is also high in sodium, so moderation is key, especially for individuals with high blood pressure.
Signs of Spoilage: How to Tell If Your Feta Has Gone Bad
Recognizing the signs of spoilage is crucial to avoid consuming unsafe feta cheese. Here’s what to look for:
- Unpleasant Odor: A sour, ammonia-like, or overly pungent smell is a clear indicator of spoilage.
- Discoloration: Look for any mold growth (green, blue, or black) or significant changes in color from its typical white or off-white hue.
- Slimy Texture: A slimy or excessively sticky surface texture is a sign of bacterial growth.
- Sour or Off-Putting Taste: Even if the appearance and smell seem okay, a distinctly sour or bitter taste suggests spoilage.
- Expired Date: While a “best by” date is not an expiration date, it indicates the period during which the feta is expected to be at its peak quality. Consuming it significantly after this date increases the risk of spoilage.
Proper Storage Techniques to Extend Shelf Life
Proper storage is essential to maximizing the shelf life of feta cheese.
- Refrigerate Immediately: Store feta in the refrigerator as soon as possible after purchase or opening.
- Submerge in Brine: Ideally, store feta in its original brine. If the original brine is unavailable, create a brine solution using water and salt. The brine helps to maintain its moisture and prevent spoilage.
- Airtight Container: Store the feta and brine in an airtight container to minimize exposure to air and contaminants.
- Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Keep the feta at a consistent refrigerated temperature. Avoid repeatedly taking it in and out of the refrigerator.
- Use Clean Utensils: Always use clean utensils when handling feta to prevent contamination.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Feta Spoilage
Several common mistakes can accelerate the spoilage of feta cheese:
- Leaving Feta at Room Temperature: Feta should never be left at room temperature for extended periods.
- Cross-Contamination: Using utensils or cutting boards that have been in contact with raw meat or other contaminated items can introduce bacteria that spoil the cheese.
- Improper Brine: Using a brine that is too weak (not salty enough) or contaminated can lead to bacterial growth.
- Poorly Sealed Container: An improperly sealed container allows air to reach the feta, drying it out and increasing the risk of spoilage.
Feta Cheese Shelf Life: What to Expect
The shelf life of feta cheese depends on several factors, including the type of feta, its storage conditions, and whether it’s been opened.
| Type of Feta | Storage Condition | Estimated Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Unopened, Commercially Packaged | Refrigerated | 2-3 months past the “best by” date |
| Opened, Stored in Brine | Refrigerated | 1-2 weeks |
| Opened, Stored Without Brine | Refrigerated | 3-5 days |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you freeze feta cheese to extend its shelf life?
While you can freeze feta cheese, it’s generally not recommended. Freezing can alter the texture, making it more crumbly and less smooth. The flavor may also be slightly affected. If you do freeze it, drain any excess brine and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before using.
2. What does mold on feta cheese look like?
Mold on feta cheese can appear as green, blue, or black spots or patches. It may also look like a fuzzy growth on the surface. If you see mold, it’s best to discard the entire block of cheese, as the mold’s spores can penetrate deep into the cheese.
3. Can I cut off the moldy part and still eat the rest of the feta?
Unlike some hard cheeses, feta is porous and crumbly, making it easy for mold to penetrate. It is not safe to cut off the moldy part and eat the rest. Discard the entire block if you see any signs of mold.
4. Is it safe to eat feta cheese that has been left at room temperature overnight?
No, it is not safe to eat feta cheese that has been left at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, potentially causing food poisoning. Discard the cheese immediately.
5. What is the best way to make my own brine for feta cheese?
To make a simple brine, dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of salt per cup of water. Ensure the salt is completely dissolved before adding the feta cheese. The brine should be salty enough to taste like seawater. Use filtered or bottled water for best results.
6. How do I know if the brine itself has gone bad?
If the brine appears cloudy, discolored, or develops an unpleasant odor, it may be contaminated. Discard the brine and the feta cheese it contains. Always use clean utensils when handling the brine to prevent contamination.
7. Can I use tap water to make brine for feta cheese?
While you can use tap water, filtered or bottled water is recommended. Tap water may contain chlorine or other chemicals that can affect the taste and quality of the feta cheese.
8. Does the type of milk used to make feta (sheep, goat, cow) affect its shelf life?
The type of milk generally doesn’t significantly impact the shelf life of feta cheese, provided it’s stored properly. However, feta made from cow’s milk might have a slightly shorter shelf life due to differences in fat content and composition.
9. What does “best by” date on feta cheese packaging really mean?
The “best by” date indicates the period during which the feta cheese is expected to be at its peak quality in terms of flavor and texture. It is not an expiration date, but consuming it significantly after this date increases the risk of spoilage and diminished quality.
10. Can you get food poisoning from eating spoiled feta cheese?
Yes, eating spoiled feta cheese can lead to food poisoning. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. If you suspect you have food poisoning, seek medical attention.
11. How does the salt content of feta affect its shelf life?
The high salt content of feta cheese acts as a natural preservative, inhibiting the growth of many bacteria and molds that can cause spoilage. This is why properly brined and stored feta has a longer shelf life compared to other cheeses with lower salt content.
12. Is feta cheese safe to eat during pregnancy?
Pasteurized feta cheese is generally considered safe to eat during pregnancy. However, it’s essential to ensure that the feta is pasteurized to minimize the risk of Listeria contamination, which can be harmful to pregnant women and their unborn babies. Always check the packaging label to confirm pasteurization.