How long will cream cheese keep in refrigerator?
Cream cheese is a "fresh," or unaged, cheese, so it does not last as long as most cheeses. Typically, cream cheese should be used within two or three weeks of the date of manufacture if it is unopened. Once opened, use cream cheese within seven to ten days. Be sure to check the expiration date printed on the package, and dispose of any cream cheese that smells bad or has signs of mold growth or spoilage.
Keep in mind that if food particles such as bread crumbs come into contact with the cream cheese, it is likely to spoil more quickly.
Cream cheese usually lasts in the refrigerator for about a month *so long as it is unopened*, but always pay attention to the Use-By date stamped on the package, as grocery workers may miss an old package. Once opened it will probably last 7-10 days. When you use it, re-wrap it tightly and refrigerate promptly. Keep it from contacting air for too long, otherwise it will get hard and dry. A zip-top bag helps. Throw it out if you see mold, or it smells or tastes funny.
