How Long Can Cheese Sit Out When Camping: A Guide To Food Safety

What types of cheese can you safely store without refrigeration while camping? Certain hard, low-moisture cheeses like Parmesan, aged cheddar, and aged Gouda are ideal choices for extended storage in non-refrigerated conditions during camping trips. These cheeses boast an extended shelf life and remain fresh at average temperatures, provided they are appropriately wrapped and stored. As of January 14, 2023, this information stands true.

Is it safe to consume cheese that has been left unrefrigerated for 24 hours? The U.S. Department of Health advises against leaving any perishable food outside the refrigerator for more than 2 hours, and this guideline applies particularly to soft cheeses such as cottage cheese, cream cheese, brie, and fresh mozzarella. If you find a squishy cheese that has been left out for 2 or more hours, it is recommended to discard it to avoid potential health risks. This information was last updated on August 2, 2021.

What happens if you leave cheese out for 8 hours? Leaving cheese out at room temperature for an extended period, like 8 hours, is generally not recommended. While it’s unlikely to cause illness or be life-threatening, the quality of the cheese can deteriorate significantly when exposed to the open air for such an extended period. It’s advisable to take precautions when serving cheese at a party or event. To maintain the best quality, consider these options: either consume it within four hours, replace it with a fresh block of cheese from the fridge, or even prepare cheese fondue for your next gathering. Remember, cheese sweats from fondue are always a more appetizing choice than having cheese that has become sweaty and unappetizing after extended exposure to room temperature. (Original date: April 27, 2018).