How long does textured soy protein last?
In the pantry, textured soy protein keeps for 2 years from the package date. Once opened, use it within 3 to 4 months.
2 years
from the package date
No guideline
3 to 4 months
in the fridge unless noted
Does textured soy protein go bad?
Textured soy protein is shelf stable, so the pantry time is about quality rather than safety: past it, flavour and texture fade before anything becomes unsafe. 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 textured soy protein has gone bad
General signs for vegetarian proteins, the group USDA lists textured soy protein under.
- Sour or off smell instead of a neutral, mild scent
- Slimy film developing on the surface of tofu
- Discoloration, especially yellowing or dark spots
- Mould, often black or white, on tempeh
- Packaging that has swollen or lost its seal
More on vegetarian proteins. The times above are quality guidelines, not safety limits; food that shows these signs goes out regardless of the date.
How long do other vegetarian proteins last?
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). How we decode the data.