Cottage cheese is generally good for about one week after opening when stored properly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends consuming opened cottage cheese within one week to ensure safety and freshness
. To maximize its shelf life after opening:
- Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Store it in the coldest part of the fridge, not in the door, to avoid temperature fluctuations
- Some suggest storing the container upside down to reduce air exposure and slow spoilage
Signs that cottage cheese has gone bad include:
- Visible mold (green or fuzzy spots).
- Sour or off smell.
- Watery separation and a grainy or chunky texture that is not typical.
- Sour taste
Unopened, cottage cheese can last up to two weeks past the sell-by date if kept refrigerated properly
. However, once opened, it should be eaten within 5 to 7 days for optimal freshness, with some sources allowing up to one week
. In summary, after opening, cottage cheese is best consumed within about one week, with proper refrigeration and storage to maintain quality and safety.
