Generally, yogurt can remain good for up to two weeks past the date printed on its container. However, it's important to understand that the date you see on yogurt packaging is typically not a strict expiration date but rather a "Best If Used By/Before" or "Use-By" date.
These dates primarily indicate peak quality, not food safety. While yogurt can be safe to consume beyond these dates, its taste, texture, and nutritional value might start to decline.
Understanding Date Labels on Yogurt
The type of date printed on your yogurt container provides different guidance regarding its freshness and safety.
| Date Label | Meaning | How Long Generally Good After This Date (if stored properly) |
|---|---|---|
| Best If Used By/Before | Indicates when the product will be at its best quality and flavor. | Up to two weeks, and sometimes longer, beyond this date. |
| Use-By | A manufacturer's recommendation for when the product should be consumed for peak quality. | Up to two weeks beyond this date. |
| Expiration Date | Less common on yogurt, this date signifies when a product should no longer be consumed for safety reasons. | Not applicable for most yogurts, as other dates are used. If present, it indicates strict cutoff. |
Signs Your Yogurt Has Truly Gone Bad
Regardless of the date on the container, always rely on your senses to determine if yogurt is still good to eat. Discard any yogurt that exhibits the following signs:
- Mold: Any visible mold, regardless of color, means the yogurt is spoiled. Do not scoop it off; the mold roots can spread invisibly.
- Off-Smell: A strong, sour, or yeast-like smell, significantly different from its usual tangy aroma, indicates spoilage.
- Changed Texture: If the yogurt has become unusually lumpy, separated with excess watery liquid (whey) that doesn't easily reincorporate, or has a very thick, curdled consistency, it's likely gone bad.
- Discoloration: Pink, green, or brown spots, or a general yellowish tint where it should be white, are clear signs of spoilage.
- Bloating Container: If the lid is puffed up or the container feels pressurized, it could indicate gas production from bacterial growth.
Maximizing Yogurt's Shelf Life
Proper storage is key to extending your yogurt's freshness beyond its printed date.
- Refrigerate Immediately: Always store yogurt in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Keep it Sealed: Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent exposure to air and other food odors, which can accelerate spoilage.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use a clean spoon every time you scoop out yogurt to prevent introducing new bacteria.
- Store in the Coldest Part of the Fridge: The back of the refrigerator is typically colder and more consistent in temperature than the door.
- Do Not Freeze (for Quality): While yogurt can be frozen, its texture will change significantly upon thawing, often becoming watery and grainy. If you do freeze it, use it in smoothies or baking where texture is less critical.
By understanding the types of dates on your yogurt and paying attention to signs of spoilage, you can confidently determine when your yogurt is still safe and enjoyable to consume, often well past the "Best By" or "Use-By" date.
