Expiration & Storage Tips
When does saltine cracker expire?
Unopened packages of saltine crackers can last up to 6-8 months past the printed date on the package in your pantry. Keep in mind, however, these are optimal conditions and the real shelf life will likely be shorter if you live in a humid environment. Once opened, saltine crackers will keep their crispness and flavor for about 1-2 weeks, provided you've properly sealed the package. Keep in mind, exposure to air and moisture speeds up the process of staleness. As for freezing, if sealed properly in airtight wrapping, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
How do you tell if saltine cracker is bad?
The safest way to determine whether your saltine crackers have gone bad is to check for visible signs of spoilage like mold or other abnormalities. However, crackers generally don't spoil in a way they can make you sick, but lose their quality over time. If they taste stale, bland, or have absorbed any odors from the air, it's a good sign they're past their best. Crispness is a good measure of a fresh cracker, so if your saltines have lost their crunch, they've probably gone stale.
Tips for storing saltine cracker to extend shelf life
• Store an opened package of saltine crackers in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container to keep them at their freshest.
• If your kitchen environment is humid, using a desiccant packet or a cracker jar with a clamping lid design, it can help absorb moisture and protect your crackers.
• Avoid storing your cracker packages near strong-smelling foods, as they act as little sponges, absorbing the smells around them.
• If you do freeze your saltine crackers, allow them to come to room temperature while still in the freezer bag before opening it. This helps prevent moisture in the air from condensing on the crackers and making them soggy.