Does Nutella Go Bad After Its Expiration Date?

Does Nutella go bad after its expiration date? Nutella comes with a 12-month shelf life and easily lasts for at least a few months beyond the printed date. Once you open the jar, the storage time doesn’t change – Nutella retains quality for at least until its date, and more likely a couple of months past it. That’s the gist of it.

Nutella is an amazing snack that can take your snacks up a notch (or perhaps a great snack by itself) as it’s important to know the length of time you can make use of Nutella.

The remainder of this article will show you everything about Nutella including ways to maintain its freshness, to the signs that it’s gone bad.

Key Overview

• Nutella can last beyond the printed date but won’t last forever.
• Store Nutella at room temperature in a sealed container and away from direct sunlight.
• Watch for texture, smell, and taste changes to prevent it from going bad.
• Refrigerating Nutella can cause it to harden, so store it at ambient temperature.
• Avoid heating Nutella quickly to soften it to prevent ruining its quality and shortening its shelf life.

Does Nutella Go Bad?

Although Nutella can last beyond the printed date, it won’t last forever.

This spread consists mainly of sugar and palm oil, making it less prone to spoilage than peanut butter or almond butter.

However, Nutella’s quality can decline over time due to drying out, hardening, or oil separation.

How To Tell If Nutella Is Bad?

Wondering if your Nutella has gone bad? Here’s what to look for:

• If the texture changes, such as becoming hard and dry or having lots of separated oil, it’s time to toss it. A little oil on top is okay, though – stir it.
• If it smells rancid or unusual, it’s likely gone bad. Palm oil and hazelnuts can go rancid over time.
• If you notice mold on the surface, it’s time to let it go. While mold is unlikely to grow on Nutella, it’s best not to take any chances.
• If your Nutella is more than six months past its best-by date, it’s probably best to dispose of it, regardless of quality.
• If the taste is off, such as being bitter or harsh, it’s a sign to get rid of it.

If you have any doubts or concerns about your Nutella, it’s best to be on the cautious side and dispose of it.

How Long Does Nutella Last?

Nutella lasts for at least a few months beyond its 12-month shelf life.

Once you open the jar, the storage time doesn’t change – it will retain quality for at least until its date, and likely a couple of months after.

The date on the Nutella jar is a best-by date, not an expiration date. Nutella can be safe to eat past the printed date as long as it doesn’t show signs of spoilage and isn’t stored for too long.

It’s suggested to eat Nutella within a couple of months beyond the printed date and discard it if it’s more than half a year “expired.” However, it ultimately depends on personal comfort level.

To be safe, if you notice any spoilage signs or if you’re uncomfortable eating Nutella beyond the date, it’s best to toss it.

Should Nutella Be Refrigerated?

Refrigeration is unnecessary for Nutella after opening, and it’s best to avoid it as it can cause the spread to harden and be challenging to spread.

Instead, store the jar in a tightly sealed container at room temperature between 64° and 72°F (18° and 22°C).

Nutella doesn’t fare well in hot temperatures either, which can lead to separation and alterations in flavor. It is advisable to keep it in a kitchen or pantry cupboard away from direct sunlight.

Additionally, always use clean spoons when scooping Nutella and avoid double-dipping. While Nutella doesn’t spoil quickly, preventing it from going bad is essential.

What Should You Do If You Accidentally Put Nutella In The Fridge?

If you mistakenly stored Nutella in the fridge and it’s turned hard, don’t worry. Simply put it back in the pantry at room temperature and give it a day to soften up. Within 24 hours or less, it should be easy to spread again, especially if the jar is already opened.

Avoid heating Nutella to soften it up quickly, as that can ruin its quality and shorten its shelf life. You can try microwaving the Nutella in short bursts if you are in dire straits.

You can store Nutella in the freezer, which is a good option if its near it’s expiration date or if you fancy making your own frozen Nutella dessert.

FAQs

Summary

Nutella is a delicious spread that can last beyond its printed date but won’t last forever. It’s best to store Nutella at room temperature in a sealed container and away from direct sunlight.

While Nutella doesn’t spoil quickly, watching for changes in texture, smell, and taste is crucial to prevent it from going bad.

Refrigerating Nutella can cause it to harden, but if you mistakenly do so, simply return it to its storage spot at ambient temperature and give it a day to soften back up.

Avoid heating Nutella quickly to soften it, as it can ruin its quality and shorten its shelf life.

Nutella can be stored in the freezer, but it’s best to consume it within a few months beyond its printed date for optimal quality.