Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Cereal Bar expire?
Most cereal bars have a long shelf life due to their sealed, low-moisture environment, which makes them less susceptible to bacteria. This usually ranges from six months to a year, depending on the storage conditions and the type of ingredients used. When unopened, they usually stay fresh until the 'Best By' date printed on the package. Once the package is opened, they are best consumed within a week. Despite their long shelf life, they don't generally freeze well due to the potential for texture change so freezing isn't a common method of prolonging the shelf life of cereal bars.
How do you tell if Cereal Bar is bad?
Telling if a cereal bar has gone bad is pretty straightforward. If you see any signs of mold, or if the color of the bar has changed unusually, it’s a clear sign that the product is spoiled. Also, an odd odor or a change in taste is an indicator that the cereal bar might have gone bad. Lastly, if the bar feels overly hard or dry, it may be stale and no longer enjoyable to eat.
Tips for storing Cereal Bar to extend shelf life
• Keep your cereal bars in a cool, dry place. A pantry or a cupboard away from heat and dampness is ideal.
• After opening a package, make sure to seal it tightly. If the original packaging isn’t resealable, transfer the bars to a Ziploc bag or an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Consider single-serving packages. They may be a bit more expensive, but they stay fresher longer since you only open one at a time.
• Avoid storing cereal bars in the fridge. The moisture can make them hard and dry.