How do you know if Cream cheese has gone bad?

Cream cheese has likely gone bad if you notice mould spots, yellowing; sour or tangy-off smell; dry, cracked, or slimy surface. When in doubt, throw it out.

How long does opened Cream cheese last in the fridge?

Opened Cream cheese lasts 1–2 weeks refrigerated.

How Long Does Cream Cheese Last?

Cream Cheese keeps 1–2 weeks in the refrigerator after opening, according to cited USDA/FDA storage references.

2 cited USDA/FDA/FSIS sources
Editorial review · Verified June 2026

Only storage locations with source-backed entries are shown; a missing freezer or pantry card means FoodLasts does not have a supported value.
Unopened and after-opening tabs are split because the source data has separate entries.

Based on USDA/FSIS guidance:

Keep eggs and refrigerated dairy at 40°F or below; sell-by dates are quality guides, not safety deadlines when storage has been cold.

Source

Discard the whole tub if you see mould, since it spreads through the soft body. Do not leave it out for more than two hours.

How to tell if it's gone bad

Look:Mould spots, yellowing
Smell:Sour or tangy-off smell
Texture:Dry, cracked, or slimy surface

When in doubt, throw it out. If Cream Cheese smells, looks, or feels off — discard it. Food poisoning is not worth the risk.

Storage tips

Keep cream cheese tightly sealed in its tub and store it on a fridge shelf rather than the door so it stays cold.

Is it still good?

Enter when you bought or opened it and where it's stored.

Common questions

How long does opened Cream cheese last in the fridge?: Opened Cream cheese lasts 1–2 weeks refrigerated.

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