Yes. Cheese curds last 2 weeks in the fridge and 4 months in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if cheese curds are bad
Smell
Ammonia or a sharp sour smell beyond the cheese's usual aroma.
Texture
Slimy surface, or very dry and cracked all the way through.
Colour
Darkened or yellowed edges, or new colours that are not part of the cheese.
Mould
On hard cheese, cut 1 inch around the spot. On soft or shredded cheese, discard.
Cheese curds past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened cheese curds 2 weeks in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Past the date
Cheese curds past their best-by date are usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep cheese curds fresh longer
- Wrap in wax or parchment paper, then loosely in plastic, so it can breathe.
- Store in the cheese drawer or a lower shelf at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Use a clean knife each time to avoid introducing mould.
