Expiration & Storage Tips
When does vanilla greek yogurt expire?
An unopened container of vanilla Greek yogurt can last up to two weeks past the printed date on the package if stored properly in the refrigerator. Once opened, your yogurt should be eaten within a week. If you choose to freeze your yogurt (great for smoothies!), aim to use it within 1-2 months. Just remember, while safe to consume, the texture of thawed yogurt might not be the same as when fresh.
How do you tell if vanilla greek yogurt is bad?
Trust your senses when determining whether your vanilla Greek yogurt has gone bad. As a dairy product, it can spoil over time. Look for signs of mold - often a different color than the yogurt and could be fuzzy. The smell could turn sour or similar to yeast, and the texture might become clumpy or watery. If you see, smell, or taste anything off, it's probably best to toss it out.
Tips for storing vanilla greek yogurt to extend shelf life
• Make sure to store your yogurt in the refrigerator (at 40℉ or below). This slows down the growth of bacteria.
• Always seal the yogurt container with its lid or plastic wrap. This protects it from absorbing other flavors in your fridge.
• Consider separating a large container into smaller portions. This way, you're not exposing the whole batch to air (which speeds up spoilage) every time you need a little yogurt.
• If you won't finish your yogurt before it spoils, consider freezing some. For smoothies or baking, portion out single servings into an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer to a reusable freezer bag.
• Avoid using dirty utensils when getting yogurt from the container. This could introduce bacteria and make it spoil faster.