Shelf Life Tips
- How long does a can of fruit cocktail last once opened? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep opened fruit cocktail refrigerated and tightly covered.
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To maximize the shelf life of canned or packaged fruit cocktail after opening, refrigerate in covered glass or plastic container.
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How long does opened canned fruit cocktail last in the refrigerator? Fruit cocktail that has been continuously refrigerated will keep for about 5 to 7 days.
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Is canned fruit cocktail safe to use after the "expiration" date on the package? Yes, provided it has been stored properly, the can or package is undamaged, and there are no signs of spoilage (see below) - commercially canned fruit cocktail will typically carry a "Best By," "Best if Used By," "Best Before", or "Best When Used By" date but this is not a safety date, it is the manufacturer's estimate of how long the fruit cocktail will remain at peak quality.
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To further extend the shelf life of opened canned fruit cocktail, freeze: to freeze canned fruit cocktail, place inside covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
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How long does canned fruit cocktail last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 2 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - fruit cocktail that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long does canned fruit cocktail last after being frozen and thawed? Canned fruit cocktail that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator before using; fruit cocktail that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be used immediately.
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How can you tell if opened canned fruit cocktail is bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the fruit cocktail: if the canned fruit cocktail develops an off odor, flavor or appearance, or if mold appears, it should be discarded.
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Discard all fruit cocktail from cans or packages that are leaking, rusting, bulging or severely dented.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
