All About Greek yogurt
Your complete guide to greek yogurt - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Greek yogurt Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for greek yogurt in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
frozen1-2 months for best quality, up to 3-4 months for safety
Signs of Spoilage
Freezer burn (dry, discolored spots on the surface), strong off-odor after thawing, visible mold after thawing (uncommon if frozen properly). The primary issue will be a significant change in texture upon thawing.
How to Check
Before freezing, ensure it's fresh. When thawing, inspect for freezer burn. After thawing, smell for any strong, unpleasant odors. The texture will likely be grainier, more watery, and separated; this is a quality change, not necessarily spoilage if stored within the duration. Stir vigorously after thawing to try and re-emulsify.
Storage Tips
Freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Best used for smoothies, baking, or cooked dishes after thawing, as the texture may not be suitable for eating plain. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Do not refreeze thawed yogurt.
at room temperature (unrefrigerated)Maximum 2 hours (1 hour if ambient temperature is above 90°F/32°C)
Signs of Spoilage
Rapid bacterial growth leading to increased acidity, off-flavors, and potential foodborne illness. Visual and smell signs might not be apparent within the safe time window, but the risk increases significantly.
How to Check
If greek yogurt has been left unrefrigerated for longer than the recommended time, it is safest to discard it, regardless of its appearance or smell, due to the rapid proliferation of harmful bacteria in the 'danger zone' (40°F-140°F / 4°C-60°C).
Storage Tips
Always refrigerate greek yogurt promptly after purchase and keep it cold during transport. Minimizing time at room temperature is crucial for food safety with dairy products.
opened in fridge5-7 days after opening
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (green, pink, black, fuzzy spots), very strong sour, yeasty, or 'off' smell, significant discoloration (e.g., yellowish or pinkish patches), extremely watery or slimy texture, bubbling or fizzing on the surface.
How to Check
Visually inspect the surface and sides of the yogurt for any signs of mold. Smell for an overly pungent, alcoholic, or distinctly 'bad' odor – it should still smell mildly tangy. Use a clean spoon to check the texture; it should be thick and creamy, not slimy or excessively watery. If it tastes unusually sour or fizzy, discard immediately. Safety warning: For mold on soft foods like yogurt, even if you scoop it off, the entire container should be discarded as mold roots can spread unseen.
Storage Tips
Always use a clean spoon to scoop out yogurt to prevent introducing bacteria. Reseal the container tightly after each use to minimize air exposure and potential contamination. Do not eat directly from the container if you plan to store it.
unopened in fridgeup to 1-2 weeks past 'best by' or 'use by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (any color), strong pungent or very sour smell, significant liquid separation beyond normal whey, bulging container, fizzy appearance.
How to Check
Always check the 'best by' or 'use by' date first. Visually inspect the container and contents for mold growth or unusual discoloration. Gently press the lid; if it bulges, gas production indicates spoilage. Smell the container before opening for any strong, off, or yeasty odors. If in doubt, discard.
Storage Tips
Store in the coldest part of your refrigerator (typically the back, not the door) for optimal freshness. Ensure the container remains tightly sealed.