Expiration & Storage Tips
When does vanilla yogurt expire?
Unopened, most commercially sold vanilla yogurts remain safe to eat for 1 to 2 weeks past the sell-by date printed on the container, when stored in the fridge at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, upon opening, yogurt should ideally be consumed within 5 to 7 days for the best quality. You can also freeze unopened or opened yogurt for 1 to 2 months. When defrosting, place it in the refrigerator overnight.
How do you tell if vanilla yogurt is bad?
When vanilla yogurt has gone bad, it may develop an off smell or sour taste, different than the tangy flavor it naturally has. Look for a change in color or the growth of mold. Additionally, if the yogurt separates into liquid and cream, it's usually not a sign of spoilage, but rather a natural occurrence. However, if the liquid appears more yellow than clear, that might indicate it's time to toss in the trash.
Tips for storing vanilla yogurt to extend shelf life
• Always keep yogurt containers sealed tight when not in use.
• Store it in the fridge at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to keep it fresh longer.
• If you don't plan to eat your yogurt within a week of opening, consider transferring it into smaller, airtight containers before storing it in the freezer. This ensures you only defrost the amount you need.
• Always use clean, dry utensils when scooping out yogurt to avoid introducing bacteria which can speed up spoilage.
• Avoid placing yogurt in the door of the refrigerator, where the temperature fluctuates the most, for the best quality and extended shelf life.