Can I Eat Expired Potato Chips?

Safe up to 60 days after expirationLast updated: 3/30/2025

Safe to eat up to 60 days after expiry

Low Risk

Expert Source

"According to USDA guidelines, commercially packaged potato chips should be stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature and consumed within 1-2 weeks of opening for best quality."

Fresh Potato Chips

Fresh Potato Chips

⚠️Spoiled Potato Chips

Spoiled Potato Chips
📦

Storage Guidelines

Storage Location

Pantry

Ideal Temperature

Room temperature

Best Storage Method

Keep in original bag tightly sealed

Shelf Life

Average Shelf Life

180 days

⚠️

Signs of Spoilage

Stale texture, rancid smell

ℹ️

Additional Information

Alternative Uses

Use as breading for fried foods

Possible Substitutions

Pretzels, popcorn

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The expiration date on a bag of potato chips indicates the date until which the chips are expected to remain fresh and safe to consume. After this date, the quality of the chips may deteriorate, leading to changes in texture, taste, and color. However, potato chips are often safe to eat past the expiration date as long as they are stored properly and show no signs of spoilage. The 'best quality' date refers to the timeframe during which the chips are expected to taste their best in terms of flavor and texture.

How can I tell if Potato Chips has gone bad?

To check if potato chips have gone bad, look for signs of discoloration, mold, or a rancid smell. Fresh potato chips should have a crispy texture and a pleasant aroma. If the chips appear dull, have a strange odor, or feel soft and soggy, it's best to discard them to avoid potential foodborne illness.

What are the food safety risks with Potato Chips?

Potato chips are generally considered a low-risk food for causing foodborne illnesses due to their low water activity and high salt content, which inhibit bacterial growth. However, there is a risk of contamination if the chips come into contact with dirty hands, surfaces, or utensils. Cross-contamination with raw food items should be avoided. It is essential to store potato chips in a clean, dry, and airtight container to maintain their quality and prevent contamination.

What are some pro tips for storing Potato Chips?

To keep potato chips fresh and crispy for longer, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing them in humid environments, as moisture can cause the chips to become soggy. After opening a bag of potato chips, reseal it tightly or transfer the chips to an airtight container to prevent exposure to air and maintain crispness. Adding a small piece of bread to the container can help absorb excess moisture and keep the chips crunchy.

Any interesting facts about Potato Chips?

Potato chips were invented in 1853 by George Crum, a chef in Saratoga Springs, New York, in response to a customer's complaint about thick, soggy fried potatoes. The thin, crispy chips became an instant hit and gained popularity worldwide. In the United States, potato chips are a staple snack at gatherings, picnics, and parties. They are also commonly served with sandwiches and burgers. Different cultures have their own variations of potato chips, such as salt and vinegar chips in the UK and seaweed-flavored chips in Japan.

Expiration Calculator

📚

Sources

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

🥘

Recipes Available

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

View Recipes →

Related Foods

🛡️

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.