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.
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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
Discard it after the expiration date.


Cool Dark Place
50°F (10°C)
Wrap in paper towel and store in airtight container with rice
7 days
Visible mold, strong odor
Infuse flavor in oil, garnish for dishes
Black Truffle
White truffles are best consumed fresh as their flavor and aroma degrade quickly over time. While they do not technically expire, their quality diminishes within days of harvest. It is recommended to use them within a week for the best culinary experience.
To determine if White Truffle has gone bad, look for any dark spots, mold, or discoloration on the surface. A strong unpleasant odor, different from its characteristic earthy aroma, is a clear sign of spoilage. Additionally, a mushy or slimy texture indicates that the truffle is no longer fresh and should not be consumed.
White truffles are generally safe to consume but can be contaminated during harvest or storage. Risks include bacterial contamination if not properly handled. To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, always purchase truffles from reputable sources, clean them thoroughly before use, and store them in a cool, dry place.
To store white truffles, wrap them in a paper towel and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Adding a small amount of risotto or eggs to the container can help infuse them with truffle aroma. Avoid storing truffles with other foods as they easily absorb odors.
White truffles are highly prized in Italian cuisine, particularly in regions like Alba. They are known as 'diamonds of the kitchen' for their rarity and intense aroma. Truffle hunting with specially trained dogs is a traditional practice that dates back centuries.
It is not recommended to consume White Truffle that has been stored in the refrigerator for more than 7 days, as it may pose a high risk of foodborne illness. Discard any White Truffle that has exceeded its shelf life to ensure food safety.
Storing White Truffle in a sealed container can help maintain its freshness and extend its shelf life. Make sure the container is airtight to prevent moisture loss and contamination. Remember to still adhere to the recommended shelf life of 7 days for White Truffle.
Cooking White Truffle does not extend its shelf life. Once cooked, White Truffle should still be consumed within 7 days of preparation. Properly store any cooked White Truffle in the refrigerator and follow food safety guidelines to prevent foodborne illnesses.
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 ExtensionNeed deeper reading? Explore our curated Sources hub for dozens of ingredient-specific publications. Our food safety review methodology explains how safety determinations are made.
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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. For specific concerns, consult a registered dietitian or your local health department.