Yogurt is a healthy and delicious treat that many people enjoy. However, one question that often comes up is how long unopened yogurt can be safely stored. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this question and provide some helpful information about yogurt storage.
What is Yogurt?
Yogurt is a dairy product that is made by fermenting milk with specific types of bacteria. This fermentation process results in a creamy, tangy, and nutritious product that is rich in protein, calcium, and probiotics.
Types of Yogurt
There are several types of yogurt available, including:
- Greek yogurt – a thick and creamy yogurt that is strained to remove excess whey and lactose
- Regular yogurt – a thinner and more liquid-like yogurt that is not strained
- Soy yogurt – a non-dairy alternative that is made from soy milk and contains probiotics
How Long Does Unopened Yogurt Last?
Yogurt typically has a sell-by or use-by date printed on the container. This date is an estimate of when the product will begin to degrade in quality, but it does not necessarily mean that the yogurt will be unsafe to eat after that date.
According to the USDA, unopened yogurt can be safely consumed up to 14 days after the sell-by or use-by date, as long as it has been stored properly in the refrigerator. This timeframe may vary depending on several factors, including the type of yogurt, the specific brand, and the conditions it has been stored in.
Factors Affecting Yogurt Shelf Life
There are several factors that can impact the shelf life of yogurt, including:
- The type of yogurt – Greek yogurt typically lasts longer than regular yogurt due to its lower water content
- The specific brand – some brands of yogurt may have different storage and shelf-life guidelines than others
- Storage conditions – storing yogurt at the proper temperature (between 35-45°F) is crucial for maximizing its shelf life
How to Store Unopened Yogurt
Proper storage is key to ensuring that unopened yogurt stays fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips for storing yogurt:
Refrigerate Immediately
As soon as you bring your yogurt home from the store, it should be stored in the refrigerator. Yogurt should be stored between 35-45°F to keep it at optimal temperature. It is important to note that yogurt should not be stored in the refrigerator door, as this area tends to be warmer and less consistent in temperature.
Keep Yogurt Sealed In Its Original Container
Yogurt should be kept in its original container and tightly sealed to prevent exposure to air and moisture which can promote bacterial growth. Avoid transferring yogurt to a different container as this can increase the risk of contamination.
Avoid Storing Yogurt Near Other Foods
Yogurt should not be stored near raw meats or other potentially contaminated foods. This can help prevent the spread of bacteria and other pathogens to the yogurt.
How to Tell if Yogurt is Spoiled
Regardless of the best practices in storage, there is always a chance that your yogurt may go bad over time. Here are a few ways to tell if your yogurt has gone bad:
Visual Inspection
If there are any visible signs of mold or discoloration on the surface of the yogurt, it has likely gone bad and should be discarded. Additionally, if the yogurt appears more watery than usual or has separated into layers, it may have spoiled.
Sour or Off Odor
If your yogurt smells sour or “off,” it’s likely gone bad and should not be consumed. Fresh yogurt should have a slightly tangy and pleasant aroma.
Taste Test
If you suspect that your yogurt has gone bad, you can perform a taste test. However, if you are unsure, it may be best to err on the side of caution and discard the yogurt.
Final Thoughts
Unopened yogurt can typically last up to 14 days past its sell-by or use-by date, as long as it has been stored properly in the refrigerator. It is important to be aware of the factors that can impact yogurt shelf life and to practice proper storage techniques to keep your yogurt fresh and safe to eat.
Common Questions About Yogurt Shelf Life
- Can you eat yogurt past the expiration date?
- Does Greek yogurt last longer than regular yogurt?
- How can you tell if yogurt has gone bad?
- How should you store unopened yogurt?
Yes, as long as the yogurt has been stored properly and there are no signs of spoilage, it is safe to consume yogurt up to 14 days past its sell-by or use-by date.
Yes, due to its lower water content, Greek yogurt typically lasts longer than regular yogurt.
If there are any visible signs of mold or discoloration on the surface of the yogurt or if it smells sour or off, it has likely gone bad and should be discarded.
Unopened yogurt should be stored in the refrigerator between 35-45°F and kept in its original container, tightly sealed. It should also be kept away from other potentially contaminated foods.
References
United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Food Product Dating. Retrieved from https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/fsis-content/internet/main/topics/food-safety-education/get-answers/food-safety-fact-sheets/food-labeling/food-product-dating/food-product-dating