How Long Does Pudding Last? Does It Go Bad?

Pudding is a popular dessert loved by people of all ages.

It is a sweet, creamy, and satisfying treat made from milk, sugar, and a thickening agent such as cornstarch or flour.

Pudding comes in a wide variety of flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, butterscotch, and banana.

But how long does pudding last, and does it go bad?

Unopened pudding can last up to six months in the pantry, while opened pudding can last up to seven days in the refrigerator. However, the shelf life of pudding varies depending on factors such as storage conditions, the type of pudding, and the preservatives used.

What is Pudding?

Pudding is a sweet and creamy dessert loved by people all around the world. Typically made with milk, sugar, and a thickening agent such as cornstarch or flour, pudding is a versatile dessert that can be flavored with a variety of ingredients, including chocolate, vanilla, caramel, and fruit.

Pudding can be eaten on its own or used as a topping on pies and cakes. Many people also enjoy serving pudding as a snack or a light dessert after a meal.

How Long Does Pudding Last?

When it comes to the shelf life of pudding, the answer is not straightforward. The length of time pudding lasts depends on a variety of factors, including the type of pudding and the storage conditions.

Unopened Pudding

Unopened pudding can last up to six months in the pantry. However, the actual shelf life may vary depending on the preservatives used and the best-by date on the package.

Pudding that has passed its best-by date may still be safe to eat, but the quality may have deteriorated, and the taste and texture may not be as good as when it was fresh.

Opened Pudding

Once opened, pudding should be refrigerated and consumed within seven days. After seven days, the pudding may start to get a sour odor or taste, indicating that it has gone bad. As with unopened pudding, the actual shelf life of an open container of pudding will depend on the type of pudding and the preservatives used.

It is essential to remember that pudding is a dairy-based product, and like all dairy products, it is susceptible to bacterial growth and spoilage. Therefore, it is crucial to store pudding correctly to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

How to Store Pudding?

Storing pudding correctly is crucial for maximizing its shelf life. Here are some tips on how to store pudding properly:

Keep It Refrigerated

Once opened, pudding should be stored in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will slow down bacterial growth and prevent the pudding from spoiling too quickly.

Use A Tight-Fitting Lid

Use a tight-fitting lid to cover the pudding when storing it in the fridge. This will prevent the pudding from absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge.

Do Not Leave Pudding At Room Temperature For Too Long

Pudding should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. Leaving pudding at room temperature for too long will allow bacteria to grow, which could make the pudding unsafe to eat.

Do Not Freeze Pudding

Pudding should not be frozen. Freezing can change the texture of the pudding and make it less enjoyable to eat.

How to Tell If Pudding Has Gone Bad?

Pudding that has gone bad is easy to identify. Some signs that your pudding has gone bad include:

Sour Smell Or Flavor

If your pudding has a sour smell or flavor, it has gone bad. The sour smell comes from the growth of bacteria in the pudding.

Mold

Mold growth is another sign that your pudding has gone bad. If you see mold growing on or in your pudding, you should discard it immediately.

Change In Color Or Consistency

If your pudding has become discolored or has developed an unusual consistency, it has likely gone bad.

Expired Best-By Date

If your pudding has passed its best-by date, it may still be safe to eat, but the quality may have deteriorated.

Types of Pudding

There are several types of pudding, including:

Cooked Pudding

Cooked pudding requires you to cook the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and any other ingredients until it thickens. Cooked pudding typically has a longer shelf life than instant pudding and can last up to seven days in the refrigerator once opened.

Instant Pudding

Instant pudding is a quicker and easier alternative to cooked pudding. You simply add milk to the pudding mix and whisk until it thickens. Instant pudding typically has a shorter shelf life than cooked pudding, and once opened, it should be consumed within four days.

Homemade Pudding

Homemade pudding is made from scratch and typically does not contain any preservatives. Therefore, homemade pudding has a much shorter shelf life than store-bought pudding.

Conclusion

Pudding is a sweet and creamy dessert loved by people all around the world. The shelf life of pudding varies depending on several factors, including the type of pudding and the storage conditions.

Unopened pudding can last up to six months in the pantry, while opened pudding can last up to seven days in the refrigerator. It is essential to store pudding correctly to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

If your pudding has a sour smell or flavor, has mold growing on it, or has a change in color or consistency, it has likely gone bad. It is crucial to discard pudding that has gone bad to prevent illness or food poisoning.

In conclusion, always remember to store your pudding in the fridge, use a tight-fitting lid, and discard pudding that has gone bad to ensure you can enjoy this sweet treat safely and deliciously.