Expiration & Storage Tips
When does plain yogurt expire?
Unopened plain yogurt can last up to 2 weeks past its printed expiry date as long as it is kept in the refrigerator and the seal remains intact. Once opened, the yogurt should ideally be used within 3-5 days, although it can technically last a bit longer, around 1-2 weeks, in the fridge. However, this largely depends on a few factors like how clean the used utensils were and how often the container was opened. As for freezing, yogurt can safely be frozen for 1-2 months, but do note that the texture may change upon thawing, so it's best used in cooking rather than eating directly.
How do you tell if plain yogurt is bad?
Even if you're a beginner in the kitchen, it's simple to tell if plain yogurt has gone bad. Look for signs of mold or odd discolorations - these are telltale signs that it is no longer safe to consume. The smell of the yogurt can also indicate spoilage - if it smells sour or off in any way, it's best to throw it out. Yogurt that has gone bad may also appear to be more watery or curdled than usual.
Tips for storing plain yogurt to extend shelf life
• Store yogurt in the refrigerator, maintaining a temperature of between 35-40°F to keep it fresh.
• Once opened, make sure the container is resealed tightly after every use to restrict air exposure which can speed up spoilage.
• Use clean utensils when serving or scooping out yogurt to prevent introducing bacteria to the rest of the container.
• If you've bought in bulk or aren't going to consume it quickly, you can freeze yogurt, just be prepared for a change in texture upon thawing. It's advisable to portion it out before freezing.
• Full-fat and low-fat yogurts tend to last longer than non-fat yogurts, due to higher oil content that acts as a natural preservative.