Dates Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
2 months
cool, dry place
In the fridgeFridge
12 months
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
1–2 years
at 0°F; quality, not safety
Quick answer
Yes. Dates last 2 months in the pantry and 1–2 years in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if dates are bad
Smell
Fermented, sour or musty odour.
Texture
Soft, mushy or leaking spots, or wrinkled skin with soft flesh.
Colour
Dark bruising that spreads, or browning inside.
Mould
White, grey or green fuzz — discard soft produce; cut firm produce generously.
Dates past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened dates 2 months in the pantry or 12 months in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Past the date
Dates past their best-by date are usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep dates fresh longer
- Store unwashed; wash just before eating.
- Keep ethylene producers (apples, bananas, avocados) away from produce that over-ripens.
- Refrigerate once cut, in a covered container.
More about dates
FAQ
How long does it take for dates to go bad?
2 months in the pantry, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can dates expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened dates 2 months in the pantry or 12 months in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad dates?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep dates from going bad?
Store unwashed; wash just before eating.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number