How long does feta cheese last?
Brined Greek crumbly cheese.
Feta Cheese shelf life chart
All times are best-quality guidelines based on USDA FoodKeeper and FDA storage data. Actual shelf life depends on temperature stability, packaging, and how the food was handled.
| Storage | Time |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (40°F / 4°C) | 6 months |
| After opening | 1 month |
Can you freeze feta cheese?
Freezing feta cheese is generally not recommended. Texture, flavor, and structure change significantly when frozen, and the resulting product is often unappetizing. Refer to the storage chart above for fridge and pantry options.
What to do if…
What if my feta cheese is past the printed date?
What if it smells weird but looks fine?
Can expired feta cheese make you sick?
Yes — but the printed date isn't the trigger. Foodborne illness comes from bacterial growth (Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, Staphylococcus) or fungal toxins, which depend on storage temperature and time, not the calendar date on the package.
Symptoms of food poisoning typically appear within 6–48 hours and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. Severe cases — especially in young children, elderly, pregnant, or immunocompromised people — warrant medical attention. The safest practice: when in doubt, throw it out.
Frequently asked questions
How long does feta cheese last in the fridge?
How long does feta cheese last after opening?
How can I tell if feta cheese has gone bad?
Can I eat feta cheese past the "best by" date?
Related shelf-life guides
Signs feta cheese has gone bad
- •Pink or orange spots
- •Slimy texture
- •Strong off smell
Storage tips
- ✓Keep submerged in brine
- ✓Make brine: 1 tbsp salt per cup water
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Disclaimer: Times shown are USDA/FDA-recommended best quality periods, not absolute safety guarantees. Storage conditions, packaging, and food handling all affect actual shelf life. When in doubt, throw it out.