How long will cheese stay good in the fridge?

The shelf life of cheese in the fridge varies greatly depending on the type of cheese. Here's a general guide:

Hard Cheeses:

* Cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan, Gruyere: 2-4 weeks

* Colby, Monterey Jack: 2-3 weeks

* Gouda, Edam: 3-4 weeks

Semi-Hard Cheeses:

* Havarti, Muenster, Provolone: 2-3 weeks

* Pepper Jack, Colby Jack: 1-2 weeks

Soft Cheeses:

* Brie, Camembert: 1-2 weeks

* Feta, Goat cheese: 1-2 weeks

* Cream cheese, Neufchatel: 2-3 weeks (unopened)

Fresh Cheeses:

* Mozzarella, Ricotta: 5-7 days

Tips for Storing Cheese:

* Wrap tightly: Use plastic wrap, wax paper, or cheese paper to keep cheese from drying out.

* Store separately: Avoid storing cheese next to strong-smelling foods.

* Use within recommended time: Even within the recommended time frame, cheese can start to develop off-flavors.

Signs of Spoiled Cheese:

* Mould: Green, white, or blue mould indicates spoilage.

* Slimy texture: A slimy surface or texture is a sign of bacteria growth.

* Sour or off smell: A sour or ammonia-like smell indicates spoilage.

* Discoloration: Significant discoloration is a sign of spoilage.

Note: These are general guidelines. Always refer to the "best by" or "use by" date on the cheese packaging. If you're unsure about the freshness of a cheese, it's best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.