Expiration & Storage Tips
When does date expire?
Unopened, dates can last for about a year when stored in a pantry and even longer if kept in the refrigerator, commonly around two years, from the time they were packed. Once opened, dates if stored properly should stay fresh for several weeks to several months. If you freeze them, they can even last up to five years.
How do you tell if date is bad?
If you see any crystalized sugar on the surface of the dates, don't worry - this is completely normal due to the high sugar content and they are still edible. Signs that dates have gone bad are very similar to other fruits. They will become very hard and dry as they start to lose their moisture, and you may notice a strange odor similar to that of alcohol if they're beginning to ferment. Do check for mold, which can appear as fuzzy spots of various colors (white, blue, green), and discard the dates if you spot any.
Tips for storing date to extend shelf life
• Keep your dates in a cool, dry place if you're planning on eating them in a relatively short span of time. An airtight container or zip-top bag in the pantry works perfectly for this.
• If you want to preserve them longer, put them in the fridge. You'd be surprised how well the cool temperature can keep them fresh.
• For longest storage, consider freezing your dates. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, press out the excess air, and seal it tightly. To use frozen dates, just let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour or put them in the fridge overnight.
• Don't wash your dates until you're ready to eat them as moisture can lead to mold growth.