USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperStorage conditions, initial freshness, and proper handling change the answer — and those details are easy to miss.
Last reviewed: January 2026
Reviewed by the Can I Eat Expired Editorial Team using official USDA, FDA, and CDC food safety guidance. How we assess food safety risk


This food is often safe when handled and stored properly, but safety depends on how it's been kept and whether any spoilage signs are present.
⏱️ Safe for up to 60 days after expiry if properly stored and showing no spoilage signs.
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Fridge
45-50°F (7-10°C)
Store upright in fridge. Open carefully due to natural carbonation
After opening, beverages can lose carbonation or absorb odors. Transferring to an airtight bottle or container (Amazon) can help preserve freshness and flavor.
365 days
Vinegar smell, loss of bubbles, off colors
Cooking, cocktail base
Prosecco, champagne
Pet Nat wine, short for Pétillant Naturel, is a naturally sparkling wine that undergoes a partially fermented process, resulting in a light effervescence. Unlike traditional sparkling wines that undergo a secondary fermentation to create bubbles, Pet Nat wines are bottled before fermentation is complete, trapping carbon dioxide from the ongoing fermentation. As a result, Pet Nat wines are known for their lively and youthful character. While Pet Nat wines do not have a strict expiration date, they are best enjoyed young to preserve their fresh and vibrant flavors. As they age, Pet Nat wines may lose some of their effervescence and fruitiness, affecting their overall quality and taste.
To check if Pet Nat Wine has gone bad, look for any cloudiness or sediment in the bottle, which may indicate spoilage. Smell the wine for off-putting aromas such as vinegar or mustiness. Lastly, check the texture by ensuring the bubbles are lively and the wine is not flat or fizzy.
When it comes to Pet Nat wine, the risks of foodborne illnesses are relatively low compared to perishable food items. However, it is important to ensure that the wine is stored properly to maintain its quality and freshness. Avoid consuming Pet Nat wine that has been improperly stored or shows signs of spoilage, such as off odors, flavors, or appearance changes.
To maintain the quality of Pet Nat wine, store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Ideally, Pet Nat wines should be stored horizontally to keep the cork moist and prevent oxidation. Once opened, Pet Nat wines should be recorked and stored in the refrigerator to preserve their effervescence and flavors for a few days. It is best to consume Pet Nat wine within a year or two of release to enjoy its fresh and lively characteristics to the fullest.
Pet Nat wines have been gaining popularity in the wine world for their natural and unpretentious charm. This style of winemaking dates back to ancient times when winemakers bottled wine before fermentation finished, resulting in a naturally sparkling product. Pet Nat wines are often associated with the 'natural wine' movement, emphasizing minimal intervention in the vineyard and winery. They are typically unfiltered and may have a slightly cloudy appearance, adding to their artisanal appeal. In terms of cultural significance, Pet Nat wines are celebrated for their authenticity and connection to traditional winemaking practices.
Temperature fluctuations can impact the quality of Pet Nat Wine. Ideally, store it in the fridge to maintain its freshness. If left at room temperature for an extended period, it may accelerate the aging process, affecting its taste and aroma.
It's safe to store Pet Nat Wine next to other beverages in the fridge as long as it is properly sealed. Avoid contamination by ensuring the bottle is securely closed to prevent odors from other items affecting the wine's flavor.
Exposure to sunlight can cause Pet Nat Wine to deteriorate quickly due to UV light affecting the compounds in the wine. It's best to store it in a cool, dark place to preserve its taste and prevent spoilage.
Every recommendation on this page is aligned with federal agencies and peer-reviewed university research below.
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperField-to-fridge handling practices that prevent contamination of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.
Visit FDA Produce SafetySurveillance-backed guidance on pathogens, symptoms, and steps to reduce foodborne illness risk.
Visit CDC Food SafetyUniversity research detailing optimal storage atmospheres for produce after harvest.
Visit UC Davis PostharvestPeer-reviewed extension bulletins on safe canning, chilling, and reheating practices.
Visit Penn State ExtensionImportant: These are general guidelines based on authoritative sources listed above. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out.
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