Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Texas Toast expire?
When unopened and stored at room temperature, Texas Toast can last for up to a week past the printed date on the package. Once opened, however, it's best to consume it within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. If you choose to freeze Texas Toast, it can last for up to 3 months. Just make sure to keep it in a freezer-friendly bag or use a vacuum sealer for added protection against freezer burn. Homemade Texas Toast follows the same guidelines, though without preservatives it might not last as long.
How do you tell if Texas Toast is bad?
Checking if the Texas Toast has gone bad is pretty simple. Start by looking at it. If you notice any mold, usually appearing as green, blue, white, or black spots, toss it right away. Also, feel the texture of the bread. If it's excessively hard, dry, or crumbly, it's probably gone stale. Lastly, give it a sniff. A sour or foul smell is yet another sign of spoiled bread.
Tips for storing Texas Toast to extend shelf life
• Don't store bread in the refrigerator. Contrary to popular belief, this actually makes bread go stale faster due to the process of retrogradation.
• Instead, keep Texas Toast in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. A bread box or dark pantry is ideal.
• If you’re not planning to eat the bread Toast within a few days, freezing is the best way to preserve it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a dedicated freezer bag, aiming to remove as much air as possible to avoid ice crystals.
• Consider using a vacuum sealer if you often buy bread in bulk. This will remove air and seal the bread, preventing freezer burn and keeping the bread fresh for longer.
• If going the homemade route, consider making only as much Texas Toast as you'll eat within a day or two to avoid waste. Homemade bread products tend not to have the shelf life of their store-bought counterparts.