Is It Safe? Can I Use Expired Cream Cheese To Save Money?

Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from bagels and lox to cheesecakes and dips. However, like all dairy products, cream cheese has an expiration date. So, what happens if you find yourself with a container of cream cheese that’s past its prime? Can you still use it?

What Happens to Cream Cheese After It Expires?

When cream cheese expires, it begins to spoil. The bacteria that cause spoilage can produce toxins that can make you sick. Symptoms of food poisoning from spoiled cream cheese can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

How to Tell If Cream Cheese Is Bad

There are a few ways to tell if cream cheese has gone bad:

• Smell: Spoiled cream cheese will have a sour or rancid smell.
• Taste: Spoiled cream cheese will taste sour or bitter.
• Texture: Spoiled cream cheese may be lumpy or have a slimy texture.
• Mold: If you see any mold on the cream cheese, it’s definitely time to throw it out.

Can You Use Expired Cream Cheese?

In most cases, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw out expired cream cheese. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If the cream cheese is only a few days past its expiration date and it shows no signs of spoilage, it may be safe to use it in cooked dishes. For example, you could use it in a soup or a casserole. However, it’s important to note that even if the cream cheese doesn’t make you sick, it may not taste as good as fresh cream cheese.

How to Store Cream Cheese

To prevent cream cheese from spoiling prematurely, it’s important to store it properly. Cream cheese should be refrigerated at all times. If you open a container of cream cheese, it will last for about 2 weeks in the refrigerator. You can also freeze cream cheese for up to 2 months. To freeze cream cheese, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container.

Alternatives to Cream Cheese

If you don’t have any cream cheese on hand, there are a few other ingredients that you can use as a substitute. These include:

• Sour cream: Sour cream is a good substitute for cream cheese in dips, spreads, and baked goods.
• Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute for cream cheese. It’s higher in protein and lower in fat than cream cheese.
• Mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone cheese is a richer and more flavorful substitute for cream cheese. It’s often used in desserts.

Conclusion

So, can you use cream cheese that is expired? In most cases, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw it out. However, if the cream cheese is only a few days past its expiration date and it shows no signs of spoilage, it may be safe to use it in cooked dishes.

FAQ

• How long does cream cheese last in the refrigerator?

Cream cheese will last for about 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

• Can I freeze cream cheese?

Yes, you can freeze cream cheese for up to 2 months.

• What are some good substitutes for cream cheese?

Good substitutes for cream cheese include sour cream, Greek yogurt, and mascarpone cheese.

• What are the symptoms of food poisoning from spoiled cream cheese?

Symptoms of food poisoning from spoiled cream cheese can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

• What should I do if I accidentally eat spoiled cream cheese?

If you accidentally eat spoiled cream cheese, it’s important to see a doctor right away.