How Long Does Unopened Heavy Cream Last? - StillTasty

How Long Does Unopened Heavy Cream Last?

HEAVY CREAM, PLAIN PASTEURIZED - UNOPENED PACKAGE

Refrigerator 2-3 weeks after date on package Freezer 4 months

Shelf Life Tips

• How long does unopened heavy cream last? The precise answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - to maximize the shelf life of unopened heavy cream, keep it refrigerated at all times.
• How long does unopened heavy cream last in the fridge? Unopened heavy cream will generally stay at best quality for about 2 to 3 weeks after the date on the package, assuming it has been continuously refrigerated.
• To maximize the shelf of unopened heavy cream, do not store it on the fridge door, as the temperature is too warm - the unopened heavy cream will last longer when stored in the main body of the refrigerator, in its original package.
• To further extend the shelf life of heavy cream, freeze it: frozen heavy cream will not whip well when thawed, will often become separated and the texture may become somewhat grainy, but it is usually acceptable for cooking and baking purposes.
• Freeze heavy cream in an airtight container and leave at least 1/2 inch headspace at the top, as heavy cream will expand when frozen; thaw in refrigerator.
• How long does heavy cream last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 4 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
• The freezer time shown is for best quality only - heavy cream that has been kept constantly frozen at 0° F will keep safe indefinitely.
• How to tell if heavy cream is bad? The best way is to smell and look at the heavy cream: signs of bad heavy cream are an off smell, off color and a thick or clumpy texture.

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