Expiration & Storage Tips
When does chex cereal expire?
Unopened Chex cereal can last for about 6-8 months beyond the date printed on the box if stored properly. Once opened, the cereal will stay fresh for approximately 4-6 weeks. If you've poured the cereal into a bowl but haven't added milk yet, feel free to put it back in the bag – it should still be fresh by tomorrow! As for freezing, although it's not a common practice, you could technically freeze Chex cereal for 1-2 years, but this might affect its texture slightly upon thawing.
How do you tell if chex cereal is bad?
Stale cereal won’t necessarily make you sick, it just won't taste as good. If Chex cereal has gone off, you'll likely notice that it has lost its crunch and become soft or chewy even before adding milk. It may also develop an off-odor or discoloration. Keep an eye out for pantry insects, as cereals can sometimes be a breeding ground. Eating cereal that has become buggy can cause digestive upset.
Tips for storing chex cereal to extend shelf life
• Always keep your Chex cereal in a cool, dry place. A closed pantry or cabinet far from any heat source is ideal.
• Use the plastic bag inside the box to keep the cereal fresh. Make sure to squeeze the air out and tightly close the bag after each use.
• If you want to keep your Chex cereal at its freshest, consider transferring it to an airtight container after opening. This will ensure less air and humidity can reach the cereal.
• Avoid storing cereal on top of the fridge. It might be convenient, but the heat from the refrigerator can speed up the degradation process and make your cereal stale faster.