Expiration & Storage Tips
When does whole wheat bagel expire?
Typically, store-bought whole wheat bagels can last unopened in the pantry for about 2-3 days past their print date. Once opened, they can last for about 2-7 days at normal room temperature. If you pop your bagels in the fridge, they can last up to a week. And for those who love to buy in bulk, when frozen, bagels can extend their lifespan to about 3 months.
How do you tell if whole wheat bagel is bad?
If you're not a habitual bagel consumer, no worries, monitoring a bagel's freshness is relatively simple. To start, check for visible signs of mold - this usually manifests in green, blue, or white spots. Also, pay attention to the smell. If the bagel has a sour or off-putting odor, it's time to bid it adieu. Lastly, the texture can be a significant indicator. If the bagel feels overly hard, dry, or stale, it's probably past its prime.
Tips for storing whole wheat bagel to extend shelf life
• Always store your bagels in a cool, dry place. A pantry or bread bin works great.
• If you have a tight bagel lid or customizable bread box, it could be an excellent idea to use these storage options to maintain freshness for a more extended period.
• If you're planning on storing your bagels in the refrigerator, consider wrapping them individually in foil or a resealable bag, to prevent them from drying out.
• For longer-term storage, the freezer is your best bet. Just be sure to slice your bagels in half before freezing to make toasting easier. To defrost, simply leave it in the refrigerator overnight or pop it in the toaster when you're ready to enjoy it.