Expiration & Storage Tips
When does dried strawberry expire?
Unopened, a store-bought bag of dried strawberries will typically last about a year, sometimes up to two years depending on the best by date marked on the packaging. Once you've opened the bag, they last for about 2-4 weeks if you keep them in an airtight container in a dark and cool pantry. Homemade dried strawberries also last about 2-4 weeks in similar conditions. If they're frozen, you can expect them to last a good 12 months without loss of flavor or texture.
How do you tell if dried strawberry is bad?
You'll know your dried strawberries have gone bad if you spot any signs of mold, which will look fluffy and may come in various colors like white, green, or black. If they have been exposed to moisture, they might have a foul smell or unpleasant taste. Another sign they're past their prime is if they've lost their vibrant color and turned a brownish hue, though this doesn't always signal spoilage, sometimes it's just a sign of oxidation, especially if stored improperly or for too long.
Tips for storing dried strawberry to extend shelf life
• Make sure your dried strawberries are stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. Your pantry or a cupboard away from the stove, oven, and other heat sources is perfect.
• Keep them in airtight containers. This could be the original packaging, but if you've opened them and don't intend on eating all of them within a few days, consider transferring them to a sealable plastic bag or glass container with a lid.
• If you’ve gone down the homemade route, allowing them to cool completely before storing will help prevent any moisture buildup within the container.
• Lastly, consider storing them in the freezer if you know you won't eat them for a long time. Frozen dried strawberries retain their flavor and can just be defrosted to room temperature before consuming.