How Long Is Feta Cheese Good For After Opening?

Feta cheese, a staple of Greek cuisine, is known for its tangy, salty flavor and creamy, sometimes crumbly texture.  Make the most of feta cheese by using it in salads, sandwiches and wraps, or tossed into a flavorful pasta salad. Whip up an easy appetizer of feta cheese, assorted olives, cucumbers, and pita bread bites, which pairs well with a light cocktail like an Aperol spritz. Add some feta chunks to an assorted cheese board or use it as a savory topping for protein dishes, or mixed into sautéed or grilled veggies. Pair feta with fruit and honey to balance out the saltiness, and serve on warm homemade bread with a nice crispy crust you created using ice cubes.

You might wonder how long it will stay fresh if you've recently bought feta cheese, which can get pretty spendy. The simple answer: seven days once you've opened the package and stored feta in an airtight container in the fridge. But there are ways to extend the time it stays fresh so you can enjoy your feta cheese longer and reduce food waste.

Storing feta in olive oil greatly affects how long the cheese is good to eat after opening. You can keep feta for two to three weeks if you put it in olive oil, which creates a barrier that protects the cheese from bacteria. Similarly, you can store opened feta in brine for about two to three weeks. However, keep in mind that brine can make the cheese taste saltier. Be sure to completely submerge the feta in the oil or brine and seal the container well for best results.

If you've lost track of time and don't quite remember how long your feta has been in the fridge, first, check the expiration date on the package. If your feta cheese has gone past the expiration date, it is safest not to eat it. You can also check the cheese for any signs of mold or an unpleasant odor, which can be yeasty or outright sour. If you taste the cheese and it's bitter, then it's likely gone bad. If you suspect your feta cheese has spoiled, your best bet is to dispose of it to avoid getting an upset stomach or growing ill. 

If you find that you are often throwing away extra feta that has gone bad, consider buying smaller portions of the cheese when you shop. Don't open the package until you are ready to use the cheese and consider freezing any extra, which could last for up to two months if drained and wrapped tightly. However, this last step will likely make the cheese more crumbly when it's thawed.