Shelf Life Tips
- How long do dates last? The precise answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep dates in a cool, dry area.
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To maximize the shelf life of dates after opening, place in tightly sealed airtight container or heavy-duty plastic bag.
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How long do dates last at room temperature? Properly stored, dates will last for about 2 months at normal room temperature.
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Should you refrigerate dates? In hot, humid environments, dates should be stored in the refrigerator.
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How long do dates last in the refrigerator? Dates will keep well for about 12 months in the refrigerator.
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Can you freeze dates? Yes, freeze dates in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
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How long do dates last in the freezer? Properly stored, dates will maintain best quality for about 1 to 2 years, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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Hard dates will generally keep longer when frozen than softer varieties.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - dates that have been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How to tell if dates are bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the dates: discard any that have an off smell or appearance; if mold appears, discard the dates.
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