How long does cheddar last in the fridge?
Quick answer
- In the fridge
- Unopened: about 6 months · Opened: 3–4 weeks
- In the freezer
- Block: about 6 months · Shredded: 3–4 months
Sources: USDA FoodKeeper · Last reviewed October 1, 2026
Opened cheddar lasts 3–4 weeks in the fridge, longer than most cheeses thanks to its low moisture and high salt. An unopened block keeps about 6 months. The harder and more aged the cheddar, the longer it lasts. A small bit of mold can be cut away with a 1cm margin — the rest is safe. Freezing for grating works well; texture suffers for slicing.
How to store cheddar
Wrap cheddar in wax paper or cheese paper, then loose plastic, in the cheese drawer or warmest fridge spot (4–8°C). Replace the wrap every few uses to prevent sweat buildup. Cut from the block as needed rather than slicing all at once. Bring to room temperature 30–60 minutes before serving for best flavor. Freeze grated for cooking; sliced is fine for melting.
- Wax paper + loose plastic
- Cheese drawer (4–8°C)
- Cut as needed, don't pre-slice
- Replace wrapping every few uses
- Bring to room temp 30–60 min before serving
Signs it has gone bad
- Spreading mold beyond cuttable margin
- Ammonia or sharply sour smell
- Slimy surface
- Bitter taste
Frequently asked questions
How long does cheddar last in the fridge?
Opened cheddar lasts 3–4 weeks in the fridge; an unopened block about 6 months.
Can you cut mold off cheddar?
Yes — cut away with a 1cm margin. Hard cheeses like cheddar resist mold spread better than soft cheeses.
Can you freeze cheddar?
Yes — blocks keep about 6 months frozen, shredded cheddar 3–4 months. It gets crumbly after thawing, which is fine for melting.