How Long Do Dates Last?
Dates keep 1–2 months in the refrigerator, 1 year in the freezer and 1–2 months in the pantry, according to cited USDA/FDA storage references.
- 2 cited USDA/FDA/FSIS sources
- Editorial review · Verified June 2026
Fridge
1–2 months
Safe range
Freezer
1 year
Safe range
Pantry
1–2 months
Safe range
- Only storage locations with source-backed entries are shown; a missing freezer or pantry card means FoodLasts does not have a supported value.
- No after-opening tab appears unless the source data has a separate opened value.
Based on USDA/FSIS guidance:
Refrigerate perishable fruit promptly; cut fruit should not sit at room temperature more than 2 hours.
When in doubt, throw it out. Do not leave perishables out more than 2 hours.
How to tell if it's gone bad
- Look:Discolouration or mould
- Smell:Sour or off smell
- Texture:Slimy or mushy texture
When in doubt, throw it out. If Dates smells, looks, or feels off — discard it. Food poisoning is not worth the risk.
Can you freeze Dates?
Yes.Dateskeeps 1 yearin the freezer when stored in airtight packaging.
How to store Dates
- Keep Dates protected from heat, moisture, and contamination in the pantry. Use the pantry duration shown above for this food state.
- Keep Dates covered in the refrigerator. Use the refrigerator duration shown above for this food state.
- Package Dates tightly for the freezer and label the stored date. Use the freezer duration shown above for this food state.
Storage tips
Refrigerate promptly in airtight packaging on the coldest shelf.
Is it still good?
Enter when you bought or opened it and where it's stored.
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