How long can you leave cheese out before it goes bad?

It depends on the type of cheese, the temperature, and how it is stored.

Hard cheeses, such as Parmesan and cheddar, can be left out for up to two hours at room temperature. Semi-soft cheeses, such as mozzarella and brie, should be refrigerated after one hour. Soft cheeses, such as cream cheese and ricotta, should be refrigerated immediately.

Cheese can also be left out for longer periods of time if it is stored in an airtight container and placed in the coldest part of the refrigerator. Hard cheeses can be stored for up to two weeks and semi-soft cheeses can be stored for up to one week. Soft cheeses should be consumed within a few days.

Spoiled cheese will have an unpleasant odor, sour taste, and discolored appearance.