Shelf Life Tips
- How long does an unopened package of sour cream last? The exact answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - to maximize the shelf life of sour cream, keep it refrigerated at all times.
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How long does unopened sour cream last in the refrigerator? Sour cream will generally keep for one to two weeks after the "sell-by" date on the package, assuming it has been continuously refrigerated; be sure that the temperature of your refrigerator remains at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit at all times.
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How long does sour cream last at room temperature? If kept at temperatures above 40 °F, sour cream will rapidly develop signs of spoilage; sour cream should be discarded if left for more than 2 hours at room temperature.
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Can you freeze sour cream? Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of sour cream once thawed will be watery and clumpy.
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How long does sour cream last once opened? Sour cream will generally last for about 2 weeks after opening, assuming it has been continuously refrigerated.
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How can you tell if sour cream is bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the sour cream: discard any sour cream with an off smell or appearance or if mold appears; do not taste the sour cream first.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here