Expiration & Storage Tips
When does vegan chocolate expire?
Unopened vegan chocolate can last between 2-4 months beyond the 'best by' date printed on its package when stored in a cool, dry place. After opening, it can generally retain its quality for about 2 weeks, though this may vary based on the specific brand and ingredients. If you choose to freeze your vegan chocolate, it can extend its shelf life for 6-8 months beyond its normal expiration date. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before use.
How do you tell if vegan chocolate is bad?
Signs that your vegan chocolate has gone bad include a dull or discolored appearance and a crystallized or 'bloomed' surface, which indicates the separation of cocoa butter. The texture might become hard or crumbly, and the flavor could taste stale or bland. Despite these changes, 'bloomed' chocolate is still safe to eat, but it may not taste as good.
Tips for storing vegan chocolate to extend shelf life
• Store your vegan chocolate in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from strong odors as chocolate can absorb them.
• Use an airtight container or resealable bag to store opened vegan chocolate to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors.
• If you're freezing vegan chocolate, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it inside a resealable bag before freezing to protect its quality.
• Vegan chocolate is prone to 'blooming' if it fluctuates in temperature too much. To avoid this, try not to let it melt and re-solidify repeatedly.