Shelf Life Tips
- How long does olive oil last once opened? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - to maximize the shelf life of opened olive oil, store in a cool, dark place and keep tightly covered at all times.
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How long does an opened bottle of olive oil last at normal room temperature? Opened olive oil will usually keep for 18 to 24 months when stored in the pantry.
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Should olive oil be refrigerated? An opened bottle of olive oil can be refrigerated to extend its shelf life - refrigeration is recommended in hot, humid environments.
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Refrigerating an opened bottle of olive oil may cause the oil to become cloudy and solidify, but this will not affect the quality or flavor - once the olive oil is brought back to room temperature, it will return to its normal consistency and color.
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Is an opened bottle of olive oil safe after the Use By or Best By date? Yes: "Best By," "Best if Used By," and "Use By" dates on commercially packaged foods sold in the United States represent the manufacturer's estimate of how long the product will remain at peak quality - in most cases, the opened bottle of olive oil will still be safe to consume after that date, as long as it has been stored properly.
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How can you tell if an opened bottle of olive oil has gone bad? To determine if oil is still suitable for use, smell and taste it: If the oil has developed an off odor, flavor or appearance, it should be discarded for quality purposes.
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