Too Good To Go BlogCHEESY GOODNESS: ENJOY YOUR CHEESE PAST ITS BEST IF USED BY DATE

BEST IF USED BY DATES: WHAT DO THEY REALLY MEAN?

When you see a Best if Used By date (or similar terms, as manufacturers use different labels) on your cheese, it might make you think it's no longer safe to eat after that date. However, that is not the case since Best if Used By dates are about food quality, not safety. These dates indicate how long the product will be at its peak flavor and texture.

CAN YOU STILL ENJOY CHEESE AFTER ITS BEST IF USED BY DATE?

Depending on the type, cheese can often be enjoyed well past its Best if Used By date if it's stored properly. Hard cheeses like Parmesan and Cheddar can last longer than soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert. Keep your cheese in the refrigerator, properly wrapped, to make it last.

CHECK YOUR CHEESE: LOOK, SMELL, AND TASTE

Wondering if your cheese is still good? Trust your senses. If you see a bit of mold on hard cheese, just cut off the moldy part—about an inch around and below the mold spot—and the rest is safe to eat. For soft cheeses, it's better to discard them if you see mold. Smell your cheese; it should have a pleasant aroma. If it smells off or sour, it's time to throw it out. Finally, taste a small piece. If you still like the taste, go ahead and enjoy it.

REDUCE FOOD WASTE AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Understanding Best if Used By dates can help avoid unnecessary wastage. 20% of consumer food waste in the US results from misunderstanding date labels, (FDA, 2024). Since Best if Used By dates are just freshness indicators, we encourage you to trust your senses before throwing away perfectly good food. By reducing food waste, you not only save money by making the most of what you buy but also help avoid CO2e emissions and the unnecessary use of valuable resources like water and land. Every small action counts in our collective efforts to help save the planet.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR CHEESE

If you have leftover cheese why not turn it into tasty dishes like Mac and Cheese or Cheesy Garlic Bread. Find more food-saving hacks, storage guides, recipes, and tips on our social media

Together, we can make a positive impact on the planet, one block of cheese at a time.