Can I Eat Expired Unopened Sour Cream?

Safe up to 7 days after expirationLast updated: 3/30/2025

Safe to eat up to 7 days after expiry

Low Risk

Expert Source

"According to USDA guidelines, unopened sour cream can be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F or below and should be used within 2 weeks of purchase for best quality."

Fresh Unopened Sour Cream

Fresh Unopened Sour Cream

⚠️Spoiled Unopened Sour Cream

Spoiled Unopened Sour Cream
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Storage Guidelines

Storage Location

Fridge

Ideal Temperature

34-40°F (1-4°C)

Best Storage Method

Keep refrigerated in original container. Check expiration date.

Shelf Life

Average Shelf Life

21 days

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Signs of Spoilage

Package damage, unusual odor when opened, separation

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Additional Information

Alternative Uses

Baking, cooking, dips

Possible Substitutions

Plain yogurt, crème fraîche, Mexican crema

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between expiration and best quality dates for Unopened Sour Cream?

The expiration date on sour cream indicates the date until which the product is expected to remain at its peak quality. Beyond this date, the sour cream may start to lose its freshness, flavor, and texture. However, sour cream can still be safe to consume for some time after the expiration date if it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage. It is always recommended to use your senses of sight, smell, and taste to determine if the sour cream is still good to eat.

How can I tell if Unopened Sour Cream has gone bad?

To check if unopened sour cream has gone bad, look for any signs of mold, discoloration, or separation of liquids. Give it a sniff for any sour or off-putting odor. Lastly, check the texture - if it appears curdled or lumpy, it's best to discard it.

What are the food safety risks with Unopened Sour Cream?

Unopened sour cream is generally safe to consume past its expiration date if stored properly, but it is important to check for signs of spoilage such as off odor, mold growth, or unusual texture. Consuming spoiled sour cream can lead to foodborne illnesses such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. People with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and the elderly should be especially cautious.

What are some pro tips for storing Unopened Sour Cream?

To maximize the shelf life of unopened sour cream, it is important to store it in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. Keep the sour cream container tightly sealed to prevent air and moisture from entering, which can promote spoilage. Store the sour cream away from foods with strong odors as it can easily absorb them. If you won't be using the entire container at once, consider portioning it out into smaller airtight containers to minimize air exposure when opening and closing the container.

Any interesting facts about Unopened Sour Cream?

Sour cream is a popular dairy product in many cultures and cuisines around the world. It is commonly used as a topping for baked potatoes, tacos, and soups, adding a creamy and tangy flavor. In Eastern European cuisines, sour cream is a staple ingredient in dishes like borscht and stroganoff. In Mexican cuisine, crema, a variation of sour cream, is widely used in dishes like tacos and enchiladas.

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 unopened sour cream 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.