How long do refried beans last?
In the fridge, refried beans keep for 2 to 3 days after opening. In the pantry, they keep for 3 years from the package date. Once opened, use it within 2 to 3 days.
3 years
from the package date
2 to 3 days
after opening
2 to 3 days
in the fridge unless noted
Do refried beans go bad?
Yes. The fridge time above is the window USDA gives for good quality; after it, refried beans may still be safe for a short while but quality drops and spoilage signs start. The date on the package is the maker's quality promise; the times here count from purchase unless marked "from the package date".
Two numbers to keep in mind: a fridge at 40 F (4 C) or below, and no more than 2 hours at room temperature (1 hour above 90 F / 32 C) for anything perishable.
How to tell refried beans have gone bad
General signs for grains, beans & pasta, the group USDA lists refried beans under.
- Small webbing, moths or beetles inside the bag or container
- Musty or damp smell instead of a neutral, dry one
- Clumping together from moisture getting into the package
- Cooked pasta or rice turning sticky, slimy or sour smelling
- Visible mould on cooked beans or grains left too long
More on grains, beans & pasta. The times above are quality guidelines, not safety limits; food that shows these signs goes out regardless of the date.
How long do other grains, beans & pasta last?
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). How we decode the data.