How Long Can Yogurt Sit Out? - U.S. Dairy

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How Long Can Yogurt Sit Out?

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• 2 min read July 23, 2025

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Yogurt can sit out at room temperature for no more than two hours—or one hour if the temperature is 90°F or higher. Like milk, yogurt is a perishable dairy food, and leaving it unrefrigerated too long can allow harmful bacteria to grow.

To stay safe, always keep yogurt refrigerated after purchasing it and return it to the fridge as soon as possible after opening.

Does Yogurt Go Bad?

Yes, yogurt does go bad. Even when refrigerated, its shelf life is limited. Over time, molds, yeast, and slow-growing bacteria can develop—especially if the yogurt is stored too long, left uncovered, or exposed to temperature fluctuations.

How Long After the Expiration Date is Yogurt Still Good?

Yogurt is usually still good after the expiration date if it’s unopened and kept refrigerated below 40°F. However, this window shortens if the yogurt has been opened or left out for more than two hours. Always inspect for signs of spoilage based on odor, texture and appearance.

How Long Does Yogurt Last?

Yogurt typically lasts 7 to 14 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. If you only eat part of a carton, spoon out your portion into a separate dish to avoid contaminating the rest, and promptly return the container to the fridge to help preserve its freshness. Once opened and not immediately consumed, please inspect the yogurt for signs of spoilage.

How to Know if Yogurt is Bad?

You can tell if yogurt has gone bad by the smell and look. If yogurt has gone bad if it smells sour, looks curdled or watery, or shows any signs of mold. Even if it looks fine, yogurt that has been stored too long or improperly handled may be unsafe to eat. When in doubt, it’s best to toss it.

Note on Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is naturally thick and tangy, with a pH between 4.0 and 4.6. This acidity helps preserve it slightly longer than some other yogurts—but it can also make spoilage harder to detect. Watch for an unusually sharp or bitter sourness, a watery or clumpy texture, or any signs of mold. Just like other yogurt, Greek yogurt should not sit out for more than two hours—or one hour if the temperature is 90°F or higher.

When it comes to lactose intolerance and Greek yogurt, the straining process removes much of the lactose, making it easier to digest for some individuals. However, if the yogurt is expired or mishandled, its altered texture or bacterial balance may trigger symptoms in those who are lactose sensitive—so freshness matters.

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