Can I Eat Expired Bagels?

Safe up to 3 days after expirationLast updated: 3/30/2025

Safe to eat up to 3 days after expiry

Medium Risk❄️ Can be frozen

Expert Source

"According to USDA guidelines, store commercially prepared bagels in a tightly closed plastic bag or airtight container to maintain freshness and quality. Bagels can be stored at room temperature for 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week."

Fresh Bagels

Fresh Bagels

⚠️Spoiled Bagels

Spoiled Bagels
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Storage Guidelines

Storage Location

Pantry

Ideal Temperature

Room temperature

Best Storage Method

Store in an airtight bag

Shelf Life

Average Shelf Life

7 days

Extended Shelf Life (When Frozen)

60 days

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Signs of Spoilage

Mold, extreme hardness

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Additional Information

Alternative Uses

Use for sandwiches or croutons

Possible Substitutions

English muffin, rolls

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between expiration and best quality dates for Bagels?

The expiration date on bagels indicates the point at which they may no longer be safe to eat due to potential microbial growth or quality degradation. However, even after the expiration date, bagels may still be safe to consume if they have been stored properly. The 'best quality' date signifies the time frame during which the bagels are expected to taste their best, but they can still be consumed after this date if they show no signs of spoilage.

How can I tell if Bagels has gone bad?

To check if bagels have gone bad, look for any mold growth on the surface, a sour or unpleasant smell, or a stale and hard texture. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the bagels to avoid consuming spoiled food.

What are the food safety risks with Bagels?

Bagels are generally safe to eat, but there are some potential risks to be aware of. Mold growth can occur if bagels are not stored properly or if they are kept beyond their recommended shelf life. Additionally, cross-contamination can occur if bagels come into contact with raw meat or other contaminated surfaces. It's important to handle bagels with clean hands and utensils to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses.

What are some pro tips for storing Bagels?

To keep bagels fresh for longer, store them in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze them. To revive frozen bagels, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in an oven or toaster. Avoid storing bagels in the refrigerator as it can make them go stale faster due to the low humidity.

Any interesting facts about Bagels?

Bagels have a rich cultural significance, particularly in Jewish communities where they have been a staple food for centuries. The round shape of bagels is said to symbolize eternity and the hole in the center may represent the cycle of life. In the United States, bagels have become a popular breakfast item and are often enjoyed with cream cheese, lox, or as a sandwich with various fillings.

Expiration Calculator

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Sources

For more information on food safety and expiration guidelines, visit our Sources page.

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Recipes Available

We have recipes that can help you safely use bagels past its expiration date!

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Reviewed By: Food Safety & Expiration Experts

At Can I Eat Expired, we are committed to providing accurate, science-backed information about food expiration and storage safety. Our content is carefully reviewed based on guidelines from leading food safety organizations, including:

🔍 How We Ensure Accuracy

  • We use official food safety sources to guide our recommendations.
  • Our team continuously reviews and updates content based on the latest research.
  • We encourage users to always check for signs of spoilage and follow proper storage guidelines.

📚 Have Questions?

If you have specific concerns about food expiration or safety, we recommend consulting a registered dietitian, food scientist, or your local health department.

Note: These are general guidelines. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out.