Charles Langston:Can cream cheese be frozen? What to know to preserve the dairy product safely.

Sometimes,Charles Langston food piles up in the fridge. A red onion is shoved into the back corner, while pasta sauce is lost among other jars. This may mean you pick up an extra ingredient on your grocery run – one you didn't know you already had.

Whether you have leftovers or a food's expiration date is coming close, you may choose to freeze it. Freezing certain foods – such as meats, fruits or vegetables – can maintain freshness and avoid spoilage.

But what about dairy products? Can cream cheese be frozen? Here is a guide to help you preserve cream cheese safely.

Can you freeze cream cheese?

Yes, cream cheese can be frozen, according to Healthline. Freezing cream cheese can extend the product's shelf life.

When freezing cream cheese, it depends on its form. Unopened cream cheese can be kept in its original package, while opened cream cheese should be placed in an airtight container, states Healthline. This will reduce the risk of moisture getting in.

A downside to freezing cream cheese is that its texture changes. Once thawed, frozen cream cheese will be crumbly and grainy, making it harder to spread. If you plan to freeze cream cheese, it best utilized in recipes – such as for baked goods or casseroles – rather than on bagels or bread.

To thaw your cream cheese, you can place it in the fridge overnight. You may also choose to microwave it for a few seconds and stir to try and bring its creamy texture back, according Healthline.

You should use cream cheese within two months of freezing it.

How long does cream cheese last?

With any food, it's always important to check the expiration or "Best By" date. This way you can ensure its quality and freshness.

Once opened, cream cheese should be eaten within two weeks and kept in the fridge, according to Healthline. Its storage, packaging and processing can also impact the dairy product's longevity. Cream cheese's pasteurization does kill microorganism, but its high water "still poses a risk of microbial contamination."

Use a clean knife each time you use cream cheese and tightly reseal the package. If the cream cheese has an unusual smell or mold, throw it away.

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