Whether you hosted a cozy gathering with friends and enjoyed a bit too much wine, or perhaps fell asleep on the couch mid cheese snack, you’ve likely woken up to find a block of cheese on the kitchen table. Now, you’re left wondering if it’s still okay to eat. How long can cheese remain fresh without refrigeration, and is it safe to consume cheese left out overnight?
Leaving cheese unrefrigerated happens to the best of us. Fortunately, while cheese is ideally stored in the fridge, it’s generally safe to eat cheese that has been left out overnight.
Leaving Cheese Out Overnight
“Leaving cheese out overnight may affect its quality, but typically doesn’t pose a food safety issue,” says Adam Brock, director of technical services at the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board.
For those who are especially cautious, the USDA advises discarding perishable items, like soft cheese, if they’ve been at room temperature for over 2 hours. However, Brock adds, “There is always a potential risk of pathogens or mold, but this risk is minimal with cheese produced under safe conditions.” If mold is visible on soft cheese, dispose of it immediately.
Are You Serving Your Cheese Too Cold?
There’s a strong chance you might be over-refrigerating your cheese. According to Brock, all cheeses except fresh variations should be served at room temperature for the best flavor. Fresh cheeses, like burrata or fresh mozzarella, are best kept chilled until serving. Soft cheeses such as Brie or Camembert will taste better and spread more easily at room temperature, while firmer cheeses are simpler to slice.
The best approach is to remove cheese from the fridge about an hour before serving. While extended room temperature exposure is unlikely to cause problems, returning cheese to the fridge after around 2 hours is recommended for optimal quality.
If you’re wary about leaving cheese at room temperature or eating cheese left out overnight, consider sticking with hard cheeses. Brock notes, “Cheeses with longer aging, like Parmesan, can maintain their distinct flavor and function and are less of a food safety risk even when not stored under ideal conditions.”
Conversely, soft cheeses contain more moisture, making them more susceptible to bacterial growth—although these cheeses are crafted with bacterial assistance.
So, feel free to enjoy that leftover Brie for breakfast. We won’t judge!
