You can eat yogurt past its “use by” or “sell by” date, but it depends on a few factors. Yogurt is a fermented product, and its shelf life can vary based on how it has been stored and how far past the expiration date it is. Here’s what you should consider before eating yogurt past its due date:
1. Storage Conditions:
- Refrigeration: If the yogurt has been stored properly in the refrigerator, it may still be safe to eat after the expiration date. Keep in mind that yogurt usually lasts 1–3 weeks beyond its expiration date when kept consistently cold (at or below 40°F or 4°C).
2. Signs of Spoilage:
- Smell: If the yogurt has an off or sour smell (beyond the usual tangy yogurt smell), it may have spoiled.
- Texture: If the texture is watery or if there are large, noticeable clumps that weren’t there before, it could be a sign of spoilage.
- Mold: If you notice mold on the surface or around the lid, discard the yogurt.
- Taste: If the yogurt tastes very sour or different from its usual flavor, it’s best not to consume it.
3. Quality vs. Safety:
- While yogurt past the due date may still be safe to eat in many cases, its flavor and texture might degrade over time. Even if there’s no visible mold or off smells, it could taste less fresh or have a different consistency.
4. Types of Yogurt:
- Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt tends to last a bit longer because it’s thicker and has a lower moisture content.
- Regular yogurt: Regular yogurt might spoil a little faster since it’s typically thinner and has more moisture.
5. “Best by” vs. “Use by” Dates:
- “Best by”: This date is typically more about quality than safety. Yogurt may still be good for a while after this date if it has been stored properly.
- “Use by” or “Sell by”: These dates are usually stricter, indicating when the yogurt is best consumed, but if no spoilage signs are present, it may still be safe.
Conclusion:
If the yogurt has been properly refrigerated and shows no signs of spoilage (such as mold, off smells, or unusual texture), it’s likely safe to eat a little past the expiration date. However, if you have any doubts about its quality or safety, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it. Always trust your senses—smell, look, and taste—when assessing whether yogurt is still good to eat.