Once opened, Polenta (shelf-stable) keeps about 5–7 days in the fridge. Unopened, it keeps about Until the package use-by date.
That's the longest window published for Polenta (shelf-stable) — opened in the fridge is its best case.
| Situation | Keeps for |
|---|---|
| Unopened · pantry | Until the package use-by date |
| Opened · fridge | 5–7 days |
| Freezer | Not recommended |
Air and warmth are what shorten an opened item's life — the right container buys back the days the packaging gives up once the seal's broken.
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About 5–7 days refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below, according to USDA FoodKeeper v128. Refrigerate it once it's open.
Yes — keep Polenta (shelf-stable) at 40°F (4°C) or below once it's open. Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening.
Look for: A rancid, paint-like, or musty smell; Bulging, leaking, deeply dented, or rusted cans; Insects or webbing in dry goods; Mould or discoloration. Those are the general signs for pantry staples — USDA FoodKeeper v128 publishes no spoilage note for Polenta (shelf-stable) specifically. Never taste something to test it — when in doubt, throw it out.
USDA FoodKeeper v128 does not recommend freezing Polenta (shelf-stable) — it survives but the texture or quality suffers badly.