DecodedGuides

How long does chocolate hazlenut spread last?

Chocolate hazlenut spread keeps until the date on the package in the pantry. Times are USDA FoodKeeper quality guidelines from the point of purchase unless noted.

Pantry

Use by the package date

For best quality, do not refrigerate or microwave.

Fridge

No guideline

Freezer

No guideline

How to tell chocolate hazlenut spread has gone bad

General signs for shelf stable foods, the group USDA lists chocolate hazlenut spread under.

  • Crackers or cereal that have gone soft or stale, not crisp
  • Rancid, paint-like smell from nuts, oils or nut butters
  • Small insects or webbing inside a box or bag
  • Spices that have lost their smell and colour
  • Fermented or boozy smell from honey that has picked up moisture

More on shelf stable foods. The times above are quality guidelines, not safety limits; food that shows these signs goes out regardless of the date.

Storage habits that make the difference

Store dry pantry staples in a cool, dry cupboard away from the stove and direct sunlight, ideally in airtight containers once opened. Reseal cracker and cereal bags tightly with a clip or transfer them to a container to keep them crisp. Label opened jars with the date so older ones get used first.

More in shelf stable foods

Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). Times assume a fridge at 40 F (4 C) and a freezer at 0 F (-18 C). How we decode the data.