How to Store Dairy Products and Make Cheese Last Longer

Do you love buying groceries in bulk but struggle with storage and shelf life? Dairy products, in particular, can take up a lot of space in your refrigerator and often go bad before you can use them. Luckily, there are some simple storage techniques that can help your dairy last longer while keeping your fridge neat and organized.

In this blog, I'll share some expert tips on how to store dairy products properly, including how to make cheese last longer using simple storage hacks.

Why Proper Dairy Products Storage Matters

Dairy products like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and mozzarella have relatively short shelf lives if not stored correctly. The right storage techniques can:

Extend the freshness of your dairy products
Reduce food waste
Save money on groceries
Optimize refrigerator space

The Best Storage Method: Glass Jars with Metal Lids

One of the best ways to store dairy products is by transferring them into wide-mouth glass jars with metal lids. Here’s why:

Airtight seal: Metal lids create a completely airtight environment, preventing air from getting in and spoiling your dairy.
Longer shelf life: Greek yogurt, for example, can last up to two weeks past the best by date when stored this way.
Better organization: Glass jars take up less space and stack neatly in the fridge.

Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Dairy in Glass Jars

Prepare the jars: Wash and dry your glass jars and metal lids thoroughly.
Transfer the dairy: Use a funnel to pour your dairy products (e.g., Greek yogurt, cottage cheese) into the jars.
Remove air bubbles: Use a spoon to press out any visible air bubbles, just like in the canning process. This helps keep the product fresher for longer.
Seal tightly: Secure the metal lid and ring to create an airtight seal.
Label the jars: Write the contents and Best By date on the jar with a permanent marker.
Store in the fridge: Keep the jars towards the back of the refrigerator for optimal temperature control.