USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperLast 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
Storage temperature, how long they have been opened, and package integrity change the answer — and those details are easy to miss.
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Check Your Exact SituationDiscard them after the expiration date.


Fridge
34-40°F (1-4°C)
Store in covered container. Keep refrigerated at all times.
Dairy products require consistent cold storage (40°F or below) to prevent spoilage. A refrigerator thermometer (Amazon) helps ensure your refrigerator maintains safe temperatures.
4 days
365 days
Pink or iridescent color, cloudy appearance, off odor
Transferring opened dairy into an airtight container (Amazon) can reduce odor absorption and moisture exposure.
Meringues, protein addition to smoothies
Powdered egg whites, egg substitute
The expiration date on raw egg whites indicates the date until which the product is expected to remain safe to consume. However, the best quality of raw egg whites is usually within 2-4 days of opening the container, as they can start to lose their texture and freshness over time. It's recommended to consume them as soon as possible for optimal quality.
To check if raw egg whites have gone bad, look for any unusual discoloration or a cloudy appearance. Smell the egg whites for any foul or sulfur-like odors. Lastly, gently touch the egg whites to feel for any sliminess or unusual texture.
Raw egg whites, just like raw eggs in general, pose a risk of Salmonella contamination. It's crucial to handle raw egg whites with care to prevent foodborne illnesses. Immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, young children, and elderly individuals are more susceptible to severe illness from foodborne pathogens. To minimize risks, use pasteurized egg whites or heat the egg whites to 160°F (71°C) to kill any potential bacteria.
To store raw egg whites properly, keep them in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Ensure that the container is sealed tightly to prevent absorption of odors from other foods. It's also helpful to label the container with the date you opened it to track freshness. If you have leftover egg whites, consider freezing them in ice cube trays and transferring the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag for longer storage. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Egg whites have been used in various cultures for centuries. In French cuisine, meringues and soufflés showcase the versatility of egg whites. In Asian cuisine, egg white soups are popular for their delicate texture. Additionally, in many cultures, egg whites are used in cocktails to create a frothy texture, such as in Pisco Sour or Whiskey Sour.
Raw Egg Whites should not be consumed if left at room temperature for more than 1 hour. Bacteria can multiply rapidly in this environment, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. It's best to discard the egg whites to ensure your safety.
Once opened, Raw Egg Whites should be consumed within 2 days if stored in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness and prevent contamination, tightly seal the container after each use and follow proper storage guidelines.
If Raw Egg Whites have been at room temperature for a short period, like 15-20 minutes, it's generally safe to use them. However, avoid prolonged exposure to room temperature to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. Always refrigerate promptly.
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 ExtensionStorage: Fridge
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Storage: Fridge
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Storage: Fridge
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Important: 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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