Expiration & Storage Tips
When does french fries expire?
When purchased frozen, unopened French fries can last up to a year, while once opened, you can expect them to stay good for 7-10 days in the fridge. If you've made your own French fries at home, they should also be consumed within 5-7 days if stored in the refrigerator. Freezing can extend the shelf life of homemade French fries - frozen, they can last up to 6 months.
How do you tell if french fries is bad?
If your French fries have developed an off smell, color, or are excessively soft or mushy, it's safest to throw them out. Additionally, if you see mold growth, toss them immediately. Discoloration or an off smell is a clear sign that your French fries have gone bad.
Tips for storing french fries to extend shelf life
• Always store leftover French fries in an air-tight container or sealed plastic bag.
• If possible, do not refrigerate French fries after cooking, as this can affect the texture and taste. Instead, they're best eaten right after cooking.
• If you must store them, placing a paper towel in the container with them will help absorb excess oil and steam.
• For longer storage, you can freeze homemade French fries. Parboil the cut potatoes before freezing, then drain and pat dry. Freezing them this way helps maintain the texture when you're ready to cook them.
• When reheating, opt for the oven rather than the microwave to restore crispiness.