Look up any food, drink, or medicine — how long it keeps unopened vs after opening, how to store it, and the signs it's gone bad.
Every product really has three numbers: how long it keeps unopened, how long it keeps after opening, and the storage it needs — pantry, fridge, or freezer. The one nobody prints on the label is the middle one, so we look it up for you.
Food and drink windows come from the USDA FoodKeeper database (FSIS/USDA, public domain). We keep FoodKeeper's own units — if it says “1–2 months”, that's what you see, not a day count we back-calculated. Where FoodKeeper publishes no figure for a situation, we show nothing rather than guess. A handful of high-traffic items were additionally hand-checked; those rows say so.
Medicine rows are general FDA and product-label storage guidance — where to keep it and what the printed date means. We never show a dose and never say a medicine is safe to take.
Spoilage signs are general guidance by category, not per-product lab findings — FoodKeeper doesn't publish them. They're the standard things to look, smell, and feel for.
Important: these are guidance ranges, not guarantees. Storage temperature, how fresh it was when you bought it, and cross-contamination all matter. Trust your senses, follow the label, and when in doubt, throw it out. For medicine, ask a pharmacist and never take anything expired or that looks or smells off.
| Item | Category | After opening | Unopened | Store at |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acetaminophen tablets (Tylenol) | Medicine | Use by the printed date | — | Room temperature 68–77°F (20–25°C), dry, in the original bottle with the cap closed — not the bathroom |
| Almond extract | Baking & cooking | 12 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Almond milk | Beverages | 7–10 days | 6–12 months | Shelf-stable cartons in the pantry unopened; refrigerate after opening and use within 7–10 days |
| Anchovies (canned) | Condiments & sauces | 3–4 days | 5 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Antibiotic ointment (Neosporin, bacitracin) | Medicine | Use by the printed date | — | Room temperature 68–77°F (20–25°C), capped, away from heat — don't leave it in a car or a first-aid kit in the garage |
| Antihistamine tablets (Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra) | Medicine | Use by the printed date | — | Room temperature 68–77°F (20–25°C), dry, tightly closed in the original blister pack or bottle |
| Applesauce (commercial) | Pantry staples | 7–10 days | 12–18 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Aspirin | Medicine | Use by the printed date | — | Room temperature 68–77°F (20–25°C), dry, tightly closed — humidity is aspirin's main enemy |
| Avocado Oil | Pantry staples | 6 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Bacon (fully cooked) | Meat | 5–14 days | 6 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Bacon (meat) | Meat | 1 week | 1 week | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Bacon bits (imitation) | Pantry staples | Until the package use-by date | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Bagged greens (leaf, spinach, lettuce, etc.) | Vegetables | 2 days | 3–5 days | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Baking powder | Baking & cooking | 3–6 months | 6–18 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Baking soda | Baking & cooking | 6 months | 2–3 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Balsamic vinegar | Condiments & sauces | 18 months | 3–5 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Bamboo shoots | Vegetables | 5 days | 2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Barbecue sauce | Condiments & sauces | 4 months | 1 year | Pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Beans (dried) | Grains, beans & pasta | 1 year | 1–2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Beef broth/stock/consommé (commercially produced) | Condiments & sauces | 3–4 days | Until the package use-by date | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Beets (pickled) | Pantry staples | 1–2 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Black bean sauce | Condiments & sauces | 3–6 months | 18–24 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Butter flavor | Baking & cooking | 12 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Canned chicken | Poultry | 3–4 days | 5 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Canned goods (high acid (such as juices, fruit, pickles, sauerkraut, tomato soup, and foods in vinegar-based sauce)) | Pantry staples | 5–7 days | 12–18 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Canned goods (low acid (such as meat, poultry, fish, gravy, stew, soups, beans, carrots, corn, pasta, peas, potatoes, spinach)) | Pantry staples | 3–4 days | 2–5 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Caviar (fresh, in jar) | Seafood | 2 days | 1–4 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Cereal (cook before eating (oatmeal, etc.)) | Pantry staples | 6–12 months | 12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Cereal (ready-to-eat) | Pantry staples | 2–3 months | 6–12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Cereal, dry mixes | Baby food | 1 month | — | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Cheese (hard such as cheddar, swiss, block parmesan) | Dairy & eggs | 3–4 weeks | 6 months | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Cheesecake | Baked goods | 5–7 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Chicken (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat) | Deli & prepared | 3–5 days | 2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Chicken broth/stock/consommé (commercially produced) | Condiments & sauces | 3–4 days | Until the package use-by date | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Chiffon pies (chocolate, lemon) | Baked goods | 1–2 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Children's liquid pain reliever (acetaminophen or ibuprofen suspension) | Medicine | Use by the printed date | — | Room temperature 68–77°F (20–25°C), tightly capped, upright, away from heat and light — do not freeze |
| Chili powder | Baking & cooking | 2 years | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Chocolate (unsweetened and semi-sweet, solid) | Baking & cooking | 1 year | 1–2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Chocolate syrup | Pantry staples | 6 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Chorizo (smoked and processed, cooked) | Meat | 1 month | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Chutney | Condiments & sauces | 1–2 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Cinnamon extract | Baking & cooking | 12 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Cocoa and cocoa mixes | Baking & cooking | 1 year | Indefinitely | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Coconut (shredded) | Fruit | 8 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Coconut cream (canned) | Pantry staples | 4 days | 2–5 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Coconut flavor | Baking & cooking | 12 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Coconut milk (canned) | Pantry staples | 4 days | 2–5 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Coconut milk (dairy & eggs) | Dairy & eggs | 7–10 days | Until the package use-by date | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Coconut water | Beverages | 1–2 days | 12 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Coffee (commercial ground, non-vacuum) | Beverages | 1 month | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Coffee (home ground, non-vacuum) | Beverages | 3–5 weeks | 3–5 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Coffee (instant) | Beverages | 2–3 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Coffee (whole beans) | Beverages | 3–4 months | 3–5 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Coffee creamer (powdered) | Dairy & eggs | 2–3 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Commercial bread products (including pan breads, flat breads, rolls, and buns) | Baked goods | 2–3 weeks | 14–18 days | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Commercial cakes and muffins | Baked goods | 7–10 days | 3–7 days | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Cornmeal (regular, degerminated) | Baking & cooking | 1 year | 6–12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Cornmeal (stone ground or blue) | Baking & cooking | 2–4 months | 1 month | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Cornstarch | Baking & cooking | 18 months | 18–24 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Cottage cheese | Dairy & eggs | 5–7 days | 1–2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Crab meat (pasteurized) | Seafood | 3–5 days | 10–12 months | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Crackers | Pantry staples | 3–4 months | 8 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Cranberry sauce (canned) | Condiments & sauces | 1–2 weeks | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Cream (whipping, ultrapasteurized) | Dairy & eggs | 1 week | 1 month | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Cream pies (banana cream, coconut cream, butterscotch) | Baked goods | 3–4 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Dairy filled eclairs | Baked goods | 2–3 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Diet powder mixes and drink mixes | Beverages | 1–3 months | 18–24 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Dinners | Baby food | 2 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Doughnuts | Baked goods | 2 days | 1–2 days | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Dry egg noodles | Grains, beans & pasta | 1–2 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Egg substitutes (liquid) | Dairy & eggs | 3 days | 7 days | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Eye drops | Medicine | Use by the printed date | — | Room temperature unless the label says refrigerate, capped, and never let the dropper tip touch your eye or any surface |
| Flour (white) | Baking & cooking | 1 year | 6–12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Flour (whole wheat) | Baking & cooking | 6–8 months | 3–6 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Formula (prepared) | Baby food | 1 day | — | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Frosting or icing | Baking & cooking | 2–3 weeks | 10–12 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Fruit | Baby food | 3 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Fruit cake | Baked goods | 12 months | 6 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Fruit Juice in cartons, fruit drinks, punch | Beverages | 8–12 days | 3 weeks | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Fruit pies (apple, peach, blueberry, apricot, cherry, blackberry) | Baked goods | 1 week | 1–2 days | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Fruit, cut | Deli & prepared | 4 days | Until the package use-by date | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Fruits, dried (raisins, apricots, mangoes, cranberries, etc.) | Pantry staples | 6 months | 6 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Gelatin (flavored) | Baking & cooking | 3–4 months | 10–12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Gelatin (unflavored) | Baking & cooking | Not recommended | 3 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Gravy (jars and cans) | Condiments & sauces | 1–2 days | 2–5 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Ham (fully cooked, canned, boneless (refrigerated)) | Meat | 3–5 days | 6–9 months | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Ham (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat) | Deli & prepared | 3–5 days | 2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Ham (shelf-stable cans) | Meat | 5–14 days | 6–9 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Herbs (dried) | Baking & cooking | 1–2 years | 1–2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Hoisin sauce | Condiments & sauces | 3–6 months | 18–24 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Horseradish (in jar) | Condiments & sauces | 3–4 months | 12 months | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Hot dogs | Meat | 1 week | 2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Hummus (commercial (pasteurized, with preservatives)) | Deli & prepared | 7 days | 3 months | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Ibuprofen tablets (Advil, Motrin) | Medicine | Use by the printed date | — | Room temperature 68–77°F (20–25°C), dry, tightly closed in the original bottle |
| Jams, jellies, and preserves | Condiments & sauces | 6–12 months | 6–18 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Jars or pouches | Baby food | 2–3 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Jerky (commercially dried) | Meat | 2–3 months | 12 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Juice, boxes | Beverages | 8–12 days | Until the package use-by date | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Kefir (fermented milk) | Dairy & eggs | 1–2 days | 1 week | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Ketchup | Condiments & sauces | 6 months | 1 year | Pantry unopened; refrigerate after opening for best quality |
| Lemon extract | Baking & cooking | 12 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Lemon juice (beverages) | Beverages | 2 months | 12–18 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Lentils (dried) | Grains, beans & pasta | 1 year | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Lime juice | Beverages | 2 months | 12–18 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Liquid concentrate or ready-to-feed formula | Baby food | 2 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Luncheon meat or poultry (pre-packaged) | Deli & prepared | 3–5 days | 2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Marinades | Condiments & sauces | 6 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Marshmallow crème | Pantry staples | 1 month | 2–5 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Marshmallows | Pantry staples | 1 month | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Mayonnaise | Condiments & sauces | 2 months | 3–6 months | Cool, dark pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Meat products (canned) | Meat | 3–4 days | 5 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Melons | Fruit | 2–4 days | Until ripe, then refrigerate | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Milk (canned evaporated or condensed) | Pantry staples | 4–5 days | 12 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Milk (lactose-free) | Dairy & eggs | 1 week | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Milk (shelf-stable) | Pantry staples | 5–7 days | 6–12 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Milk (ultra-pasteurized) | Pantry staples | 7–10 days | 1–3 months | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Molasses | Pantry staples | 6 months | 1–2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Mushrooms (dried) | Pantry staples | 3 months | 1–2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Mustard (condiments & sauces) | Condiments & sauces | 1 year | 1–2 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Nacho cheese (store bought) | Dairy & eggs | 2 weeks | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Nut oils | Baking & cooking | 6–8 months | 6–12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Nutrition supplement drinks (canned) | Beverages | 2 days | 2–5 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Nuts (jars or cans) | Pantry staples | 4–6 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Oils (olive or vegetable) | Baking & cooking | 4 months | 6–12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Olives (black and green) | Condiments & sauces | 2 weeks | 12–18 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Orange juice (commercially packaged carton) | Beverages | 7–10 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Oyster sauce | Condiments & sauces | 3–6 months | 18–24 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Pasta (dry, without eggs) | Grains, beans & pasta | 1 year | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Pastries, danish | Baked goods | 14 months | 5–10 days | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Peanut butter (commercial) | Pantry staples | 2–3 months | 6–24 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Peanut butter (commercially produced, containing hydrogenated fat or other stabilizers) | Pantry staples | 3–4 months | 6–9 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Peanut butter (natural) | Pantry staples | 3–4 months | 12 months | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Peanuts (boiled, shelled) | Grains, beans & pasta | 7 days | 3 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Peas (dried split) | Grains, beans & pasta | 1 year | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Pectin | Pantry staples | 1 month | Until the package use-by date | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Pesto (jarred) | Condiments & sauces | 3 days | 6 months | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Pickles | Condiments & sauces | 1–3 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Pies (mincemeat) | Baked goods | 1 week | 2 hours | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Pies (pecan) | Baked goods | 3–4 days | 2 hours | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Pies (pumpkin) | Baked goods | 3–4 days | 2 hours | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Pimento cheese (packaged) | Dairy & eggs | 4 weeks | Until the package use-by date | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Polenta (shelf-stable) | Pantry staples | 5–7 days | Until the package use-by date | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Popcorn (commercially popped in bags) | Pantry staples | 1–2 weeks | 2–3 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Popcorn (dry kernels in jar) | Pantry staples | 1 year | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Popcorn (microwave packets) | Pantry staples | 1–2 days | 6–12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Pork roll | Meat | 7 days | Until the package use-by date | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Potato chips | Pantry staples | 1–2 weeks | 2 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Potatoes (instant) | Pantry staples | 6–12 months | 10–15 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Powdered milk | Dairy & eggs | 3 months | 3–5 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Pretzels | Pantry staples | 3 weeks | 4–9 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Pudding | Dairy & eggs | 2 days | Until the package use-by date | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Pudding mixes | Pantry staples | 3–4 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Pure vanilla extract | Baking & cooking | 12 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Quiche | Baked goods | 3–5 days | 2 hours | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Red wine | Beverages | 1–3 days | 3–5 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Refried beans | Grains, beans & pasta | 2–3 days | 3 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Retort pouches or boxes (meat) | Meat | 3–4 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Retort pouches or boxes (poultry) | Poultry | 3–4 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Rice (brown) | Grains, beans & pasta | 6 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Rice (white or wild) | Grains, beans & pasta | 6 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Rice milk | Dairy & eggs | 7–10 days | Until the package use-by date | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Ricotta | Dairy & eggs | 1 week | 2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Roasted nuts (peanuts, cashews, almonds) | Pantry staples | 4 weeks | Until the package use-by date | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Robitussin (cough syrup) | Medicine | Use by the printed date | — | Room temperature 68–77°F (20–25°C), tightly capped, away from heat and moisture — not the bathroom cabinet |
| Salad dressing (creamy) | Condiments & sauces | 3–4 weeks | 6 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Salad dressing (dry,packaged) | Condiments & sauces | 4 weeks | Until the package use-by date | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Salad dressing (homemade) | Condiments & sauces | 2 weeks | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Salad dressing (vinaigrette) | Condiments & sauces | 4 weeks | 6 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Salad dressings (commercial, bottled) | Condiments & sauces | 1–3 months | 10–12 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Salami (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat) | Deli & prepared | 3–5 days | 2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Salsa (jarred) | Condiments & sauces | 2–4 weeks | 1 year | Pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Seafood (canned) | Pantry staples | 1–2 days | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Seasoning blends | Baking & cooking | 1–2 years | 1–2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Sesame oil | Pantry staples | 6 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Shortening (solid) | Baking & cooking | 6–12 months | 1–2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Soda (carbonated cola drinks, mixers, diet sodas; bottles or cans) | Beverages | 2–3 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Soup mixes (dry bouillon) | Pantry staples | 1 year | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Soy milk | Dairy & eggs | 7–10 days | Until the package use-by date | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Soy or rice beverage | Beverages | 7–10 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Soy sauce | Condiments & sauces | 1–2 years | 3 years | Shelf-stable; refrigerate after opening for best flavor |
| Spaghetti sauce (in jars) | Condiments & sauces | 4 days | 18 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Spice/spices (ground) | Baking & cooking | 2–3 years | 2–3 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Spice/spices (whole) | Baking & cooking | 3–4 years | 3–4 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Sugar (brown) | Baking & cooking | 18–24 months | Indefinitely | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Sugar (confectioners) | Baking & cooking | 18–24 months | Indefinitely | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Sugar (granulated) | Baking & cooking | 18–24 months | Indefinitely | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Sugar substitutes | Baking & cooking | Indefinitely | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Sun dried tomatoes (jar) | Pantry staples | 3–6 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Sunflower seeds (roasted, no shell) | Pantry staples | 7–8 months | 12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Sunscreen | Medicine | Use by the printed date | — | Below 77°F (25°C), out of direct sun — a beach bag in the sun is the fastest way to ruin it |
| Syrup | Pantry staples | 6 months | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Tahini | Condiments & sauces | 3 weeks | 1 year | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Tamarind paste | Baking & cooking | 2–3 months | 6–12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Tapiocas | Baking & cooking | 12 months | 12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Tea (bags) | Beverages | 6–12 months | 18–36 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Tea (instant) | Beverages | 6–12 months | 2–3 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Tea (loose) | Beverages | 6–12 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Textured soy protein (TSP) | Vegetarian proteins | 3–4 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Thai red curry paste | Condiments & sauces | 5 days | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Toaster pastries | Pantry staples | 1–2 weeks | 6–12 months | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Tomato paste | Pantry staples | 5 days | 27 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Tomato sauce (spaghetti, pizza) | Condiments & sauces | 3–5 days | Until the package use-by date | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Tortillas (flour) | Grains, beans & pasta | 3 months | 3 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Tuna (packet) | Pantry staples | 3–4 days | 18 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Turkey (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat) | Deli & prepared | 3–5 days | 2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Turkey bacon | Poultry | 7 days | 2 weeks | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Vegan Cheddar Cheese | Dairy & eggs | 3–7 days | 4 months | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Vegetable juice (homemade) | Beverages | 3–5 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Vegetable oil sprays | Baking & cooking | 1 year | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry, sealed — refrigerating after opening is optional and mainly preserves quality |
| Vegetable stock/broth (commercially produced) | Condiments & sauces | 3–4 days | Until the package use-by date | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Vegetables (baby food) | Baby food | 2 days | — | Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below |
| White wine | Beverages | 1–3 days | 1–2 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Yeast (packaged) | Baking & cooking | 4 months | 2 years | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
| Yuzu juice | Beverages | 3–4 months | 4–6 months | Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening |
It depends entirely on the product. Opened dairy is usually 3–7 days, opened refrigerated condiments 1–6 months, and dry pantry goods months to years. Search a specific item above and you'll get its own window from the USDA FoodKeeper database rather than a rule of thumb.
Usually not. In the US, “best by”, “sell by”, and “use by” dates are quality dates set by the manufacturer, not federal safety cutoffs — infant formula is the one exception. Properly stored food is often fine a little past them. What matters more is how it was stored and how it looks and smells now.
Most do once the seal is broken — mayonnaise, ketchup, barbecue sauce, salsa, and most dressings. Very high-salt or high-acid ones like soy sauce are shelf-stable, and refrigerating them is about flavour rather than safety. Each product page shows its own rule.
Look for off or sour smells, mould, a slimy or unusually wet texture, discoloration, and swollen, fizzing, or leaking packaging. Never taste something to test it. When in doubt, throw it out — a wasted jar costs far less than food poisoning.
Medicines carry a printed expiration date, and that's the number to go by. For most OTC tablets and liquids, opening the bottle doesn't start a separate short countdown — heat and humidity do far more damage, which is why the bathroom cabinet is the worst place to keep them. Eye drops are the common exception: many labels tell you to discard them a set number of days after opening. This is general information, not medical advice — ask a pharmacist.
Freezing pauses spoilage but doesn't undo it. Food stays safe indefinitely at 0°F (−18°C); the windows shown for the freezer are about quality — after that it's still safe but the texture and flavour decline. Once thawed, the clock restarts where it left off, so use thawed food promptly and don't refreeze raw items that have fully thawed.