Yogurt is definitely storable. Always check the expiration date on your yogurt products to be sure there are still safe to consume. But the real trick is to make sure you store your yogurt properly. Yogurt that isn’t chilled for an extended period is prone to developing bacteria. This can cause massive tummy troubles.
The last thing you want to do is dip your spoon into a bowl of expired yogurt. Yes, yogurt goes bad, just like any other dairy product. So how do you know when it’s time to toss your favorite snack? Here is everything you need to know about yogurt expiration.
Does Yogurt Go Bad?
Yes, yogurt can definitely go bad. Always check the expiration date on your yogurt products to be sure there are still safe to consume. But the real trick is to make sure you store your yogurt properly. Yogurt that isn’t chilled for an extended period is prone to developing bacteria. This can cause massive tummy troubles.
Select your yogurt at the end of your grocery shopping, and don’t make any stops before going home to refrigerate them.
How to Tell if Yogurt Is Bad
There are a few signs that may indicate your yogurt has been hiding out in the refrigerator a little too long. Here are the signs to keep an eye out for:
- Far more liquid on top than normal
- Curdling
- A strong smell
- Any signs of mold
- Sour taste
Liquid on Top of Yogurt
To a certain degree, this is normal, especially when it comes to Greek yogurt. It often just means the yogurt has separated a little bit. It’s only really a concern when there is much more liquid than usual.
If your yogurt meets these criteria, you’re better off tossing it. It’s not worth the pain and suffering that will follow consuming bad dairy products.
How Long Does Yogurt Last?
Yogurt generally has a pretty long shelf life. It is loaded with probiotics and can keep for several weeks. Plain yogurt without fresh fruits inside can last even longer. There is always a best before date to indicate the shelf life of the yogurt. However, not properly storing your yogurt will drastically affect that shelf life.
If you leave the yogurt out of the refrigerator for several hours – say you brought it to work in a lunch bag but didn’t get around to eating it – don’t place it back in the fridge. Bacteria have already started to grow, and the yogurt is likely spoiled.
What Does Expired Yogurt Mean?
There are two things to consider here: expiration and best before. When yogurt is expired, it means it is spoiled and no longer safe for consumption. The best before date is not an expiration date. It is simply letting you know the time period for which the yogurt will be freshest. It is not immediately spoiled afterward.
How Long is Yogurt Good For?
Yogurt can last longer if it remains in an unopened, sealed package. The airtight seal will lengthen the shelf life of your product. Once opened, the product may spoil sooner. For this reason, you may want to purchase small yogurt containers. Bigger ones may spoil sooner.
What Is the Yogurt Expiration Date?
Be sure to check if your product has a best before date or expiration date. They are not the same. Best before simply means it is ideal to eat prior to the date, but can still be safely consumed after. An expiry date means the product can no longer be considered safe to consume after that point.
How Long Does Greek Yogurt Last?
Plain Greek yogurt will last longer than regular yogurt or yogurt with fresh fruits inside. If properly stored, it can be safe for anywhere from two weeks to nearly one month after the best before date.
Once the seal of any yogurt has been broken, the shelf life begins to dwindle down. It may not even make it to the expiration date.
Can You Eat Expired Yogurt?
If the yogurt has been properly stored and does not have any of the signs mentioned above, it is probably safe to eat. However, if you notice anything unusual about it, don’t chance it.
How Long Is Yogurt Good for After the Expiration Date?
Different yogurts can last for more or less time after expiration, anywhere from five days to 25 days. The fewer additives (fruits, flavors, etc.) there are, the longer it will last. Always put your yogurt to the sniff test first.
Can You Freeze Yogurt?
When foods are beginning to go bad, the freezer is usually the best way to save them. But this isn’t the case with yogurt. It can be frozen, but don’t expect Ben & Jerry’s frozen yogurt. Yogurt will separate once thawed. It can be suitable for baking and cooking, but you may not want to consume it as it. The texture will be very unusual.
What to Do if You Have Consumed Spoiled Yogurt?
In haste, you grabbed a quick snack and didn’t realize it tasted a little funky until just after you finished it. This happens all the time. Don’t worry! Things may just get a bit uncomfortable for you.
Consuming spoiled yogurt may lead to cramping, indigestion, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. If you experience high fever and body shakes after consuming spoiled yogurt – or any other food that is potentially unsafe – get to an ER near you for a consultation.
It is crucial to stay hydrated as you wait out the expulsion of the yogurt from your gut.
When to Discard Yogurt
If you have accidentally left yogurt out for several hours or the product has a bad smell or sour taste, it’s safe to say it’s time to toss it.
