Check the date stamped on the package or tub and buy the furthest out.
The shelf life of unopened cream cheese in your fridge depends on the type, but generally, you can keep regular cream cheese for longer than flavored and reduced fat varieties, Weiss said.
Once you dig into foil-wrapped cream cheese, don’t just fold the wrapper back over the exposed end. Put the cheese in an airtight container or resealable bag and store it that way.
And whichever variety of cream cheese you choose, use it within 10 days of opening, Weiss said. Your bagel will thank you.