Expiration & Storage Tips
When does cheese cracker expire?
Most cheese crackers remain fresh in their unopened packaging for about 6-9 months from the time of purchase, even past the printed date if properly stored. Once you've opened the packaging, it's best to eat them within 1-2 weeks. After opening, the exposure to air can make the crackers soft and stale. If you've decided to freeze your cheese crackers, which isn't very common, they can last up to 8 months. To use, just thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.
How do you tell if cheese cracker is bad?
Telling if cheese crackers have gone bad is relatively straightforward. First, give them a good look. Any signs of mold (usually appearing as spots of fuzz in various colors) mean it's time to toss them out. Second, smell the crackers. If they have an off or sour odor, they've likely gone bad. Finally, taste a small piece. If the texture is soft instead of crispy, or the taste is off or too bitter/bland, it’s time to throw them away.
Tips for storing cheese cracker to extend shelf life
• Always store your opened cheese crackers in an airtight container or resealable bag to limit their exposure to air. This helps to extend their shelf life a wee bit.
• Store cheese crackers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to avoid them becoming soggy or rancid.
• Avoid storing your crackers near strong-smelling foods as they can absorb other odors, which could affect their taste.
• Want to restore the crunch to slightly stale crackers? Pop them in the oven at 250 degrees for a few minutes. Just make sure to cool them before eating.
• If you plan on freezing your cheese crackers, double-bag them in freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and to maintain their taste and texture.