Expiration & Storage Tips
When does dried fig expire?
Dried figs have a shelf life of about a year if they're stored unopened in a cool, dark place. Once opened, they last about 3 months in the pantry, but if you move them to the fridge, they should stay good for up to 6 months. They can be frozen indefinitely, but for best quality, use them within 12-18 months of freezing.
How do you tell if dried fig is bad?
Dried figs have a natural moistness and chewiness; if they're hardened or shriveled, they may be past their prime. If you notice a sour smell, unusual discoloration, or if there's mold or bugs, you should discard them immediately. One sign of dried figs starting to go bad is they become too sticky. This stickiness is a sign of sugar fermenting and turning into alcohol, which is the first stage of decay.
Tips for storing dried fig to extend shelf life
• Store unopened dried figs in a cool, dark place away from heat and humidity, like a pantry.
• Once opened, keep your dried figs in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out and absorbing odors.
• Consider storing opened portions in the refrigerator to further extend their shelf-life. They don't have to be in a special container, even a zip-top bag is fine.
• You can also freeze dried figs if you have a lot or if you want to keep them for a long time. Just put them in a freezer bag, squeeze out as much air as possible, seal the bag, and put them in the freezer. To defrost, simply remove them from the freezer and let them come to room temperature on the kitchen counter.