How Long Does Crisco Last?

Crisco is a shortening commonly used for making pastries. But like everything in life, it comes with an expiration date. It’s important to know the shelf life beyond which it goes bad. So, how long does Crisco last?

Unopened cans or tubs of Crisco can last up to two years if stored properly. Once opened, the product should be used within six months to a year for the best quality.

The shelf life can vary depending on the type and storage conditions. There are many indicators that can tell you how fresh or old your Crisco is if examined properly.

This article will help you find all the signs indicating your Crisco has gone bad besides its shelf life and storage methods. So, let’s take a look at all this information and learn more about Crisco.

How Long Does Crisco Last?

Crisco can last up to two years if stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, Crisco should be used within six months to a year for the best quality. However, the shelf life of Crisco can vary depending on the storage conditions.

Crisco can stay fresh for a few months, even after passing best-by-date, if stored properly and not exposed to air. Exposure to air causes oxidation that spoils it.

Crisco is a vegetable shortening brand commonly used for cooking and baking. It is made from vegetable oil, typically soybean oil, that has been partially hydrogenated to create a solid form at room temperature. 

Crisco is often used in recipes for baked goods, such as cakes, cookies, and pie crusts, to create a tender and flaky texture. It is also used to fry foods like chicken or fish to create a crispy coating.

How To Tell If A Can Of Crisco Shortening Goes Bad?

Several signs can tell your Crisco shortening has gone bad. Let’s take a look at them.

1. Smell 

The first sign is to check the condition of Crisco by doing the smell test. If Crisco smells rancid or sour, it means it has gone bad. Other than this, if you notice an off or unpleasant odor, it also indicates that the product has spoiled.

2. Appearance

Another way to tell if Crisco has gone bad is by its appearance. If you see any mold or discoloration, it clearly indicates that the product is no longer safe to use. Additionally, if Crisco has an unusual texture, such as molds, clumps, or an oily film on the surface, it is a sign that it has gone bad. 

3. Taste

If you don’t detect something off in the smell and appearance of Crisco, the quality of Crisco can be determined by tasting a small amount of the product. Spoiled shortening will have a rancid, bitter, or unpleasant taste.

4. Expiration Date

Always check the expiration date or use-by date on the packaging before using Crisco. If the product has passed its expiration date, it may be past its prime and could be spoiled.

If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the can of Crisco and purchase a new one to ensure the safety and quality of your food.

Can We Use Expired Crisco?

If stored properly, Crisco can be used beyond its expiry date if it shows no signs of spoilage.

However, it should be noted that a product’s expiration date indicates its shelf life and how long the product will maintain its freshness, flavor, and quality.

To ensure food safety, it is best to use Crisco before its expiration date and to discard any expired product. 

How To Store Crisco To Extend Its Shelf Life?

Proper storage is essential to extend the shelf life of Crisco and maintain its quality. Here are some tips on how to store Crisco:

1. Store in a cool, dry place

Crisco should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight, like a pantry, cupboard, or refrigerator. Crisco can become rancid and spoil faster when exposed to heat and sunlight.

2. Keep the container tightly sealed

Once you have opened a can or tub of Crisco, make sure to tightly seal the container after each use. This will help to prevent air, moisture, and contaminants from getting into the product.

3. Use a clean Spoon

When using Crisco, always use a clean spoon or spatula to scoop it out of the container. This will help to prevent contamination and the growth of bacteria.

4. Avoid introducing water or food particles

Water and food particles can also cause Crisco to spoil faster. Make sure that your spoons, spatulas, or containers are clean and dry before coming in contact with Crisco.

5. Transfer to an airtight container

Crisco is best stored in an airtight container and refrigerator. This can help to extend its shelf life and maintain its quality.

You can help extend Crisco’s shelf life and ensure that it remains fresh and safe to use by following these tips. 

Should I Refrigerate Crisco After Opening?

According to package instructions, Crisco can be stored at room temperature once opened in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight.

However, if you live in a warm or humid climate, storing Crisco in the refrigerator will help to maintain its quality and extend its shelf life.

If you plan to refrigerate Crisco after opening, make sure to transfer it to an airtight container. This will prevent odors of other food items and moisture from affecting it.

But keeping Crisco in the refrigerator makes its texture harder. Therefore, you will need to take it out before time to use it. 

Conclusion

Opened Crisco sticks can last for at least 6 months, while an opened can keep for about a year. It can go rancid if not stored properly in the pantry or refrigerator. 

I hope you found all the answers to your questions regarding the storage of Crisco and its shelf life. If there are any more useful tips that you would like to share with us about Crisco’s storage, feel free to write to us in the comments section below.

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