How Do I Keep Cheese From Getting Moldy In My Fridge Months Before It Even Expires!! Please Help!?

Question

I buy cheese whether it is store brand such as Kroger Sharp Shredded Cheddar Cheese or Sargento Provolone Slices and Shredded Mozzarella. Thing is, no matter which brand I purchase it ends up getting moldy months before its expiration date. Example: I purchased Kroger Shredded Cheddar Cheese and opened it in July. Its expiration date is in December. It is the end of August and there is already mold on the shredded cheese. Our fridge is fairly new and is on the coldest setting. All cheese is stored in the deli box in the middle and I have even tried moving the cheese to the coolest area of the fridge but it still happens. I make sure the bags are sealed tightly after each use, I've tried plastic containers, and I'm pretty sure I'm doing everything right. Can someone please explain why all of my cheese is getting moldy months before the expiration date on the bags???? Thanks!

Answer 1

Katie B.'s answer pretty much summed up what i was going to say :)

Answer 2

the expiration date is meant to indicate how long the product will last unopened.  once you open the package, the contents are exposed to contaminants in the air and on your hands or the utensils you put in the bag.  spoilage begins the moment you open the bag, regardless of the storage conditions.  

to slow spoilage, use a clean spoon to get cheese out, or shake it, rather than touching it.  store bags tightly sealed in the cold part of you refrigerator as you're doing.

you can also freeze bagged shredded cheese to prolong its shelf life.  shake out what you need a while before serving to let it thaw.

Answer 3

the exp date is for when its unopened.

eat it and only open enough for two weeks

Answer 4

the date is only good for a sealed package. youve opened it right? you cant keep something thats been opened for months and months and months.  

Answer 5

It sounds like your fridge might not be cold enough.  If you don't keep it in the deli tray, I would definitely recommend starting to.  Is it just those brands?  That's odd, I buy the same ones and the cheese is always fresh.  I'd check the temp and the humidity levels.

Answer 6

You can freeze cheese. Divide it in half and put the other half in the freezer.

Answer 7

I think the expiration date on the bags refers to it being unopened. Once a bag is opened the product is exposed to water, bacteria etc. causing it to start the process of going bad.Try buying cheese when you know you can eat it in a week or two, that way it shouldn't go bad. You could also buy a block of cheese and grate it yourself as needed, blocks of cheese last longer and if any mold forms you can always scrap it off.

Answer 8

cheese is mold. just cut the growing moldiness off with a knife.