How Long After the Expiration Date Can You Eat Yogurt?

Yogurt can often be eaten after the date on the packaging.

Date Stamps Are Good Guides

According to Washington State University, yogurt usually has a "Sell by" or "Best if Used By" date. A "Sell By" stamp indicates the date when the store must remove the product from the shelf. A "Best if Used By" date indicates that the product will be of higher quality if used before the date. Yogurt does not need to be eaten by the "Sell By" date, but to get the best flavor and texture, yogurt should be eaten by the "Best if Used By" date.

Smelling and Tasting Yogurt is Important

Yogurt can go bad at any time if not kept in proper conditions. The University of Nevada recommends smelling and tasting the yogurt to detect whether it has soured. UN also notes that after the "Best if Used By" date, yogurt may separate or accumulate fluid, but that this is not an indication that it is unsafe to eat.

Bottom Line

Use the date stamped on the yogurt as a guide, but also use common sense when deciding whether yogurt is safe to eat. According to both Washington State University and The University of Nevada, yogurt kept at proper conditions will keep for seven to ten days after the "Sell By" date.

References

• Washington State University Extension: Decoding Food Dates
• University of Nevada: Food Product Dating